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Chapter 393: Attempting the Runic Tower Again I

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

On a quiet beach, a white light appeared, and a few solemn-faced Spell Casters emerged from the light.

"We've finally returned to the Dark Magic Region, Wizard Merlin. The situation at hand is too grave. Let's report back together."

These four were Wizard Envia and the rest of their delegation. The trip to Blacksand Fort had brought about a disastrous situation. The sudden attack from Ozmu had caused Blacksand Fort to be in chaos, and numerous spell casters' organizations suffered irreconcilable losses.

Although most of the delegations were only a small part of their respective spell casters' organizations, they consisted of young prodigies from these organizations. Now that they were killed by the surprise attack from Ozmu, the entire southern Spell Caster world would experience a massive upheaval.

This matter was too grave hence it would have to be reported to the higher-ups of the Dark Magic Region immediately for them to start making preparations. In addition, the Dark Magic Region had lost three Seventh-level Spell Casters including Heusius as well as the powerful Wizard Leo, who possessed Darkness Eye. Thus, the total loss of the Dark Magic Region could be considered massive.

"Yes, let's go together!"

Merlin agreed and quickly rushed into the Dark Magic Region along with Wizard Envia and the others.

"Hum."

Once they stepped through the light veil, several tall towers that stretched into the clouds appeared before Merlin's eyes. The familiar Dark Magic Region materialized before them once again.

"Wizard Merlin, you're back!"

Upon returning to the Dark Magic Region, Merlin was greeted by a Fourth-level Spell Caster. He had been waiting there to welcome them.

"We're back. Bring me to the Wizard Tower of the Seventh-level Wizards. I have an important report to bring to them."

Merlin said in a deep voice.

"Hmm? Wizard Heusius and the others aren't back yet?"

When the Fourth-level Spell Caster who was waiting for them saw that Wizard Heusius and the others did not follow behind them, his face turned anxious.

"There had been some interference, so they'll not be back for a while. We really need to report to the Seventh-level Wizards."

Wizard Envia stepped forward and said with a somber expression.

This Fourth-level Spell Caster was only a follower of the Seventh-level Wizards and was aware that Merlin was highly valued by the higher-ups of the Dark Magic Region. In that sense, Merlin outranked him, therefore he nodded and immediately led Merlin and the others toward the Seventh-level Wizards' Tower.

Since Wizard Envia did not have a flying spell, the Fourth-level Spell Caster flew very slowly, huffing and puffing all the way as he transported Wizard Envia and the others to the Seventh-level Wizards' Tower.

"Please wait here. I'll inform Sir Wizard Morse!"

Subsequently, the Fourth-level Spell Caster disappeared, leaving Merlin and the others to wait alone in the Wizard Tower.

After a moment, an elderly but rosy-looking and burly Spell Caster appeared from the depths of the Wizard Tower.

"Merlin, you have something to report?"

This Wizard was a Seventh-level Spell Caster of the Dark Magic Region. Similar to Wizard Heusius, he was one of the core strengths of the Dark Magic Region.

"Wizard Morse, it's truly something important. It's about our trip to Blacksand Fort."

Merlin stood up and glanced at Wizard Morse's follower who was standing behind him.

Seeing Merlin's gaze, Wizard Morse naturally understood. If Merlin was being cautious, it must truly be a dire situation. In addition, the fact that Wizard Heusius and the others did not come back also raised some questions.

Therefore, Wizard Morse waved the follower away, leaving only the four Wizards and himself.

"Tell me, what happened? Why isn't Heusius and the others back yet?"

Wizard Morse's expression was serious as he gazed at them intently.

"Wizard Heusius and the others are gone. They won't be back anymore. Even Wizard Leo died on the way back trying to protect us."

Wizard Envia was the one who spoke. He gripped his fist tightly, reliving the scene in his head when Wizard Leo had faced-off against the Black-White Great Wizard. They would never forget it as without Wizard Leo, none of them would have made it back alive.

"What? Died? What on earth happened? Tell me clearly!"

Wizard Morse's expression changed violently like he dared not believe his ears. Faint elemental fluctuations began to appear around his body as it was apparent that his emotions were very anxious.

"The Black-White Great Wizard from Ozmu led a team of highly-skilled members of Ozmu and invaded Blacksand Fort. Their sudden attack disrupted the summit and caused massive losses to all the large spell casters' organizations. Although Blacksand Fort managed to force Ozmu into retreating in the end, many large spell casters' organizations were attacked once again by the ambush set up by Ozmu on their way back. Besides a few lucky survivors, almost all delegates from every spell casters' organization are dead!"

Despite Merlin's calm demeanor which expressed no emotional turmoil in his tone, everyone could still feel the heaviness in their hearts. The loss of Wizard Leo, Wizard Heusius, and the others were all the absolute core strengths of the Dark Magic Region.

The Dark Magic Region was a small spell casters' organization, far from its glorious days under the Great Wizard Fidel. Even the loss of one Seventh-level Spell Caster was bad enough. What more to lose three Seventh-level Spell Casters all at once in addition to Wizard Leo who was almost on par with a Seventh-level Spell Caster.

The Dark Magic Region could not afford a loss like this!

Subsequently, Wizard Morse carefully inquired further, which Merlin and the others reported to him in full details according to their knowledge.

"Merlin, did you really cultivate Darkness Eye?"

When Wizard Morse heard that Wizard Leo had given Darkness Eye to Merlin, he looked at Merlin with an astonished gaze.

Merlin did not answer. He raised his hand and showed a blinking blood-red vertical eye in his palm. It looked extremely eerie.

Seeing this blood-red vertical eye, Morse's gaze grew even more astonished. He looked like he wanted to say something, but in the end, he just shook his head.

"Alright, why don't you go back first. I'll inform the other Seventh-level Wizards about what happened. If there are any more questions, we'll inform you immediately."

Wizard Morse waved his hand, and Merlin and the others left the Wizard Tower.

"Phew…"

Once they had left the Wizard Tower, Wizard Envia exhaled heavily. He took a few steps toward Merlin and whispered, "Wizard Merlin, how do you think the higher-ups will manage this?"

"That's for the higher-ups to worry about. Now that the entire southern Spell Caster world is going to descend into chaos, you should hurry back and construct more Fourth-level spells!"

Merlin had a premonition that this was just the tip of the iceberg. Ozmu had not only invaded a large spell casters' organization like Blacksand Fort but also slaughtered a large number of Spell Casters. Such crazy behavior was, in a way, in line with Ozmu's reputation. They had always acted outrageously irrational.

However, this time, Ozmu had gone too far. Their actions might unite the entire southern Spell Caster world. If the three largest spell casters' organizations decided to work together, they would form a formidable alliance.

If and when that happened, then a real confrontation with Ozmu would be unavoidable. As part of the southern Spell Caster world, the Dark Magic Region would most certainly be involved.

Wizard Envia and the rest nodded in understanding. This trip to Blacksand Fort had made them painfully aware of the inadequacies of their own abilities even though they had previously been considered as prodigies and placed on a pedestal in the Dark Magic Region.

Once they arrived in Blacksand Fort, however, they were not even able to clear the first and second rounds. The gap in their abilities was too jarring. Therefore, at a time when the southern Spell Caster was on the brink of descending into chaos, their foremost priority would be to hone their abilities.

"Wizard Merlin, although Darkness Eye is indeed powerful, it's a cursed power. If the situation is not dire, I think you should not use its power lightly."

Wizard Envia took a long look at Merlin and reminded him gently.

"A cursed power!"

Merlin tilted his head to look at Darkness Eye in his palm. He could feel the darkness and stench of death which were oozing from it. He was perfectly aware of the danger posed by Darkness Eye. Right now, his only protection was the Flame Maxim which was suppressing its power.

However, Merlin knew that he could not rely solely on the Flame Maxim to solve this problem as Darkness Eye would slowly diminish the powers of the Flame Maxim. He had to learn to control the third form of Darkness Eye as soon as possible. That was his utmost priority.

Since Merlin owned Darkness Heart and had constructed Darkness-type spells, he was quite familiar with the powers of Darkness-type magic. He was more suited to cultivate Darkness Eye compared to Wizard Leo.

To control the third form of Darkness Eye, the most straightforward method was still to construct a Fourth-level Darkness-type spell. Merlin was lacking Mind Power but fortunately, he had the ingredients for more than one thousand portions of Mokra Potion that were gifted to him from the eighth prince in the Imperial City.

He had such an abundant amount of ingredients that even with a thirty percent success rate, he would be able to produce at least three hundred portions of Mokra Potion. If he consumed all that, Merlin himself was not sure how much further his Mind Power would be enhanced.

Once his Mind Power was enhanced, it would be easy to construct spells. Now Merlin had to deliberate whether to construct the Fourth-level spells using derivation from the consumption of Maxims in the Matrix or to just construct existing Fourth-level spells.

This decision was very important as it would affect Merlin's future paths, so he had to consider both options carefully.

Both options had their merits. If the Fourth-level spells were derived by the Matrix, they would be more suitable for Merlin and surpass existing spells in every aspect. However, it would need to consume the power of Maxims.

Perhaps the Flame Maxim would be temporarily enough for Merlin to derive all Fourth-level spells, but in the future, he would need to derive the Fifth-, Sixth-, and even Seventh-level spells independently.

When it was time, the amount of power of Maxim which it would consume would also be colossal, so Merlin had to consider the long-term consequences as well.

Merlin could not make up his mind on either option. However, before he started constructing Fourth-level spells, Merlin had another place to go – the Runic Tower!

Previously, Merlin was not able to clear the seventh floor but now with Darkness Eye, he was confident to make another attempt on the Runic Tower. After all, once he had successfully constructed a Fourth-level spell and became a Fourth-level Spell Caster, he would not be able to attempt the Runic Tower anymore.

On the seventh floor of the Runic Tower, the treasure left behind by the Great Wizard Fidel still remained. Naturally, Merlin did not want to miss this opportunity.

Thinking along these lines, Merlin decided not to return to the Wizard Tower and flew toward the Runic Tower instead.

Chapter 394: Attempting the Runic Tower Again II

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

There was a large number of Spell Casters on the front lawn of the Runic Tower. Ever since Merlin's last attempt on the Runic Tower, more and more Spell Casters in the Dark Magic Region were willing to try their luck. After all, there was no loss even if they failed.

Nevertheless, most of them were truly simply trying their luck because only a precious few managed to break through to the fourth floor, not to mention the fifth or sixth floor.

"Whoosh."

A dark figure slowly descended from the sky, drawing speculation from the Spell Casters around the Runic Tower. The Runic Tower only allowed Spell Casters below the Fourth-level to enter so if a Fourth-level or above Spell Casters tried to enter, they would immediately be ejected out violently by the Runic Magic Circles.

However, only Fourth-level Spell Casters could fly!

"Who's that Wizard?"

"Oh? It's not a Fourth-level or above Spell Caster, I think it's Wizard Merlin!"

"Wizard Merlin? I see, although he's not a Fourth-level Spell Caster, he has a Flying-type casting tool. Hmmm… I wonder why he came to the Runic Tower. Is he going to attempt it again?"

Merlin was considered a well-known figure in the Dark Magic Region. Therefore, his arrival stirred up lots of debate among the Spell Casters around the Runic Tower.

Merlin did not pay any attention to them. He raised his gaze toward the soaring Runic Tower. The last time, he was defeated on the final floor and could not clear it. This time, with Darkness Eye and the ability to wield its third form, Merlin was much more confident attempting the Runic Tower.

Thus, he did not dither and walked into the Runic Tower.

Coincidentally this time, there were a few other Spell Casters on the first floor. Upon seeing Merlin, a look of astonishment appeared on their faces, and they bowed respectfully at him.

Merlin nodded his head genially and continued his stride until he came to the guardian spirit on the first floor. With a light wave of his hand, fierce flames began pouring out. The guardian spirit on the first floor was completely unable to withstand it.

First floor, second floor, third floor…

Merlin progressed like a hot knife through butter. Soon, he was already on the sixth floor.

The guardian spirit of the sixth floor, Wizard Effidel slowly appeared. When he saw Merlin, he was momentarily stunned. With a weird expression, he asked, "Why are you here again? It hasn't been that long since you last cleared the sixth floor, but now you're making another attempt? If you're here to claim the prize on the sixth floor, then you're sorely mistaken, Wizard Fidel had already made a rule that every person can only claim one treasure on each floor!"

Merlin had not even remembered the treasure chest on the sixth floor until Wizard Effidel's reminder. It seemed that Wizard Fidel had it all thought out so that the Runic Tower would not be misused by a single person to claim all his treasure.

"I came to attempt the seventh floor of the Runic Tower!"

Merlin bowed his head at Wizard Effidel and headed toward the overlapping Runic Magic Circles. These overlapping Runic Magic Circles required at least the ultimate power limit of the Sixth-level to be broken!

Merlin was extremely familiar with the challenge after his last Runic Tower attempt. He did not activate Darkness Eye, but instead released the strongest form of Fiery Collapse.

"Boom!"

It felt like the entire Runic Tower was rumbling. Following the explosion of the ultimate power limit of the Sixth-level, the overlapping Runic Magic Circles collapsed in an instant.

"The seventh floor!"

Merlin's figure was wrapped in a white light and re-appeared on the seventh floor. This was his second time on the seventh floor, also the top floor of the Runic Tower.

"Huh? Someone else managed to break through to the seventh floor again? Merlin had just gotten here not too long ago the last time, and now someone else is here? The Dark Magic Region must be sprouting a good crop recently…"

Upon arriving on the seventh floor, Merlin saw the familiar black cat Didimoss again. ( NovelFull )

"Sir Didimoss, we meet again!"

Merlin was the first to speak.

The black cat Didimoss stared at Merlin with a trace of astonishment shining through his bright glassy cat eyes. He asked, "Wizard Merlin, it has only been a short while since your last attempt on the Runic Tower. Are you truly confident that you can clear the seventh floor?"

"It doesn't matter whether I can clear it or not. I'm just here to try."

Merlin also knew that the seventh floor of the Runic Tower required powers that were on par with a Seventh-level Spell Caster, which was extremely difficult to achieve for Spell Casters below the Fourth-level.

In the entire southern Spell Caster world, the only Spell Caster below the Fourth-level who was able to stand against and vanquish a Seventh-level Spell Caster was the Miracle Child. Of course, Merlin now had the help of Darkness Eye, especially one that was being suppressed by the Flame Maxim, allowing him to wield its third form freely.

Therefore, the list must now include Merlin because he could use the third form of Darkness Eye to vanquish a Seventh-level Spell Caster!

It was also because of the powerful Darkness Eye that Merlin chose to come to the Runic Tower to make another attempt on the seventh floor.

The black cat Didimoss nodded daintily and continued its graceful pace in the air.

"Very well, if you want to try, then so be it. You'll still choose to fight with the power level of a Seventh-level Spell Caster?"

"Certainly. I'm not at all familiar with runology. I choose the power level of a Seventh-level Spell Caster!"

Previously, Merlin was defeated from the Runic Tower because he was struck by Didimoss' Runic Thunder. The Runic Thunder wielded by the black cat Didimoss was equivalent to the power level of a Seventh-level Spell Caster and thus, Merlin's Perfect Armor was not able to withstand it.

This time, Merlin had come prepared!

The black cat Didimoss gave Merlin an assessing look. Slowly, he said, "There's Runic Magic Circle here that releases Runic Thunder as powerful as a Seventh-level spell. If you can break the Runic Magic Circle, then you'll clear the seventh floor!"

The rule was simple enough, which was to break the Runic Magic Circle. However, for Spell Casters below the Fourth-level, it was a challenging feat.

Similarly, perhaps only someone like the Miracle Child would be able to clear the seventh floor. Even with Darkness Eye, Merlin did not have full confidence that he would succeed. He could only try.

"Runic Thunder!"

Human words suddenly spilled from the black cat Didimoss who was still strolling in the air. Immediately, a bolt of lightning as thick as a man's arm appeared and flew toward Merlin.

Merlin could sense the intimidating power contained inside the lightning bolt. His Perfect Armor did not stand a chance against it, not to mention any Third-level spells, even with the addition of Pandora Demon Abilities.

In this situation, his only chance was to wield the third form of Darkness Eye.

"Darkness Eye, dispel!"

Merlin unfurled his fingers and revealed Darkness Eye in his palm. The slow-blinking blood-red eye radiated an overwhelming amount of power as a crimson ray shot out.

"Boom!"

The Runic Thunder seemed to have collided with an invisible force. With a loud explosion, it sizzled and dispersed. Even though it packed the power of a Seventh-level spell, it could not go anywhere near Merlin.

"Leo's Darkness Eye? Furthermore, it's the third form!"

The black cat Didimoss was very familiar with the Dark Magic Region as he was one of the oldest beings in existence. He had been created back when the Great Wizard Fidel was still alive.

Since then, many years had passed and the black cat Didimoss witnessed the slow descent of the Dark Magic Region from its glory days to its current state of despair. The era right now could be considered hitting rock bottom, with only one Ninth-level Spell Caster left.

Thus, the black cat Didimoss naturally knew about Wizard Leo and his circumstances, especially Darkness Eye. Additionally, it was a famous special Pandora Demon Ability, so the black cat Didimoss was quite familiar with it.

"Crack crack."

The Runic Magic Circle on the seventh floor began to crumble. Once Merlin wielded the third form of Darkness Eye, the black cat Didimoss immediately knew that he would be able to clear the seventh floor.

The treasure on the seventh floor would finally be obtained by Merlin.

The black cat Didimoss took a deep gaze at Merlin. At last, he brandished a cat claw at the wreckage that was once the Runic Magic Circle and grinned. "You can stop wielding Darkness Eye. The Runic Magic Circle has been broken into pieces. You've already cleared the seventh floor! Tsk tsk, what an unexpected outcome. Wizard Fidel invested all his effort to pass on his lifetime knowledge of runes to a Spell Caster proficient in runes so that runology could be expanded and advanced further. With this turn of events, I guess the Great Wizard Fidel's grandeur plans will all be for naught."

The sole purpose of building the Runic Tower was to select a Spell Caster who was highly-proficient in runes to continue the lifework of the Great Wizard Fidel in runology.

It was unfortunate that in the end, the Spell Caster who managed to clear all seven floors turned out to be the rune-illiterate Merlin.

The one question that the black cat Didimoss could not figure out was, how did Merlin, a Third-level Spell Caster, wield the third form of Darkness Eye?

However, the black cat Didimoss instinctively knew that it was a secret, so he did not ask further. After all, he was only a guardian spirit, albeit one who was truly ancient and had a life force. He was still tied to the rules set by the Great Wizard Fidel in the beginning.

"Rumble."

The black cat Didimoss opened a small room inside the seventh floor, then he said to Merlin, "Wizard Merlin, come on in, you've cleared the seventh floor of the Runic Tower. The Great Wizard Fidel's lifework lies inside this room. That's the treasure prepared for you!"

Merlin used his Mind Power to lightly scan the room, but it was almost completely shrouded with Runic Magic Circles, so his Mind Power could not see anything. In order to find out the treasure left behind by the Great Wizard Fidel, Merlin would have to enter the room himself.

With that in mind, Merlin took a deep breath and slowly reeled in the power of Darkness Eye. He gave a small bow to the black cat Didimoss as a sign of respect.

Following that, Merlin stepped in!

"Hum."

The room shrouded in Runic Magic Circles shook gently like ripples on water like it was completely cut off from the outside world. At the same time, Merlin's figure disappeared from the seventh floor.

Chapter 395: Runic Heartprint

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

On the seventh floor, Merlin entered a small room that was completely isolated. He could not see anything outside, and the people outside also could not see anything inside. Even the black cat Didimoss, the spirit of the Runic Magic Circle, could not see anything in the small room.

Therefore, Merlin could look at the treasures left by the Great Wizard Fidel in the small room with ease.

The treasures on the seventh floor were the Great Wizard Fidel's most precious treasures. Merlin was also full of curiosity. For so many years, no one had been able to conquer the seventh floor of the Runic Tower. Besides the Great Wizard Fidel himself, no one knew exactly what treasures there were here.

The decoration in the small room was very simple. Merlin swept his gaze around and immediately concentrated at an area which was emitting white light.

There was a huge mysterious rune in this area. It floated in the white light, rolling incessantly, looking incredibly mysterious.

"Whoosh."

Suddenly, a figure loomed out from within the white light, looking just like the guardian spirit of the sixth floor of the Runic Magic Circle, Effidel.

Effidel looked exactly like the Great Wizard Fidel. Naturally, this figure was not Effidel, so there was only one explanation – it was left behind by the Great Wizard Fidel.

"Finally, someone has conquered the seventh floor of the Runic Tower… What's your name?"

The Great Wizard Fidel calmly looked at Merlin.

Merlin's heart was slightly shocked. The fact that this apparition could communicate with him greatly surprised him. However, he was a figure left behind by the Great Wizard Fidel, so he must be related to the treasure here.

Thus, Merlin respectfully answered, "My name is Wilson Merlin!"

"Wizard Merlin, don't be afraid. This figure is merely a projection of me, and it can't support itself for too long. When you obtain the treasure, the projection will disappear. There's not much time left, so let me introduce to you the treasure I left behind, a Runic Heartprint!"

"Runic Heartprint?"

Merlin looked at the huge runes in mid-air that were presumably the Runic Heartprint left behind by the Great Wizard Fidel, but he could not detect anything special.

"Indeed, the Runic Heartprint. This Heartprint contains my lifetime's understanding and comprehension of Runic Magic Circles. With this Heartprint, even those who don't know runes can rely on it to activate a Runic Magic Circle. It's a special treasure that I've created. Although it's different from a casting tool, it's stronger than some powerful casting tool!

"Of course, the most important thing about the Runic Heartprint is still my understanding of runes. You can slowly digest the runes in the Heartprint and become a great Rune Wizard!

"This world is full of mysteries. I've seen all kinds of prodigies, even some Third-level Spell Casters who could kill Seventh-level Casters! Such talents are few and far in between, but it doesn't rule out the chance that there would be such Wizard in the Dark Magic Region in the future. If you're really such a prodigy but aren't interested in runology, then I hope you'll find a Spell Caster in the Dark Magic Region proficient in runology and pass on the Runic Heartprint to him in the future, so as not to waste my entire life's efforts."

Merlin already understood that the Great Wizard Fidel's projection did not have any consciousness. When it asked for Merlin's name earlier, it was only set by the Great Wizard Fidel. The projection only spoke according to what the Great Wizard Fidel had set in the beginning.

Soon after, the Great Wizard Fidel's projection gradually faded, and before long, it completely dispersed, leaving only the huge rune in the room.

The runes in the white light were the Runic Heartprint that the Great Wizard Fidel had mentioned. It was the painstaking effort of the Great Wizard Fidel's life that he originally wanted to pass on to the true runology prodigy of the Dark Magic Region, who would conquer the seventh floor using his understanding of runes, and finally obtain the Runic Heartprint.

A prodigious Spell Caster like that could better inherit the Great Wizard Fidel's lifelong understanding of runology but now, it was Merlin who had conquered the seventh floor.

"Even if one isn't a runology Spell Caster, once one possesses the Runic Heartprint, one would be able to use the Runic Heartprint to activate Runic Magic Circles and become a formidable Rune Wizard!"

Merlin looked at the Runic Heartprint in mid-air and gradually became interested. He was not proficient in runology, so he could not even set up Runic Magic Circles, much less understand what runes were.

His energy had limits. Apart from spells and Pandora Demon Abilities, Merlin did not have much energy to study the boundless and profound field of runology. However, since there was such a mysterious treasure like the Runic Heartprint, he naturally wanted to give it a try.

Perhaps he would not get the genuine and precious knowledge on runology even after obtaining the Runic Heartprint but the mysteries of the Runic Heartprint was enough to satisfy Merlin.

If in the future a genius in runology appeared in the Dark Magic Region, it would not be too late to pass on the Runic Heartprint to him then.

"Hmm? Earlier, the Great Wizard Fidel's projection didn't seem to have mentioned how to obtain the Runic Heartprint."

Suddenly, a thought struck Merlin. The Runic Heartprint was indeed mysterious but he did not know how to obtain it. Even the Great Wizard Fidel's projection seemed to have forgotten to mention this point.

Merlin frowned and took a few steps forward. He walked to the area which was bathed in the white light, wanting to look at the Runic Heartprint and figure out how to obtain it. While he was still at a distance from the Runic Heartprint, it seemed to have sensed something and was fiercely shaken.

"Hum hum hum."

The white light rolled like a cloud, enveloping Merlin in it. At the same time, the huge and mysterious Runic Heartprint instantly turned into a ray of light and engraved itself into Merlin's mind.

"Boom!"

A large amount of information suddenly appeared in Merlin's mind. Merlin's mind went blank as if it was fried.

This state only lasted for a moment before Merlin quickly recovered. He could feel a sudden increase in knowledge in his mind. Moreover, in his Awareness, there was a huge rune faintly emitting white light. It was the Runic Heartprint.

This Runic Heartprint was very mysterious. It floated in the Awareness and did not interfere in Merlin's Spell Model and the Flame Maxim. Furthermore, upon closer inspection, he could see that there were numerous mysterious runes on the surface of the Runic Heartprint, faintly arranging into countless Runic Magic Circles to protect the Runic Heartprint.

These Runic Magic Circles must have been the Great Wizard Fidel's painstaking effort. Its purpose was to protect the Runic Heartprint so even if any accident happened, the Runic Heartprint would still be intact, and the Great Wizard Fidel's lifetime of effort would not be wasted.

In addition to the protection of the Runic Magic Circle, Merlin could not destroy the Runic Heartprint either. However, Merlin was very satisfied with everything else.

The Runic Heartprint was different from the Flame Maxim and could be easily controlled by Merlin. If he used the Runic Heartprint, he could see a white imprint gradually appear on his forehead, which seemed to make Merlin appear full of mystery.

The Runic Heartprint indeed had a great deal of knowledge regarding runology, which was incredibly valuable. To Spell Casters who wholeheartedly studied runology, this was a priceless treasure. All this knowledge was the Great Wizard Fidel's comprehension and understanding of runology, and the Spell Casters who liked runology would be able to advance by leaps and bounds, greatly enhancing their comprehension of runology.

However, to Merlin, there was not much use. What he really took a fancy to was that the Runic Heartprint would be able to help Merlin master runes. Regardless if he did not know anything about runes, with this Runic Heartprint, he could even arrange powerful Runic Magic Circles.

"Let's see if this Runic Heartprint really is as wondrous as it seemed."

Merlin took out the Runic Magic Disc he received at the beginning from his ring. It was just an ordinary Runic Magic Disc but since Merlin did not know about runes and did not do any research about runes, this Runic Magic Disc had become a mere decoration. Merlin also had no way to activate the Runic Magic Circle in the Runic Magic Disc.

"Runic Heartprint!"

Merlin chanted in a low voice and activated the Runic Heartprint. Immediately, the Runic Heartprint became more distinct in the middle of Merlin's forehead, and runes began to enter the Runic Magic Disc one by one.

"Hum hum hum."

Instantly, the Runic Magic Disc in Merlin's hands began to activate, and the Runic Magic Circle in the Runic Magic Disc rapidly began its arrangement. Even though Merlin did not know runology, he knew that this Runic Heartprint was incredibly powerful!

The Runic Heartprint enabled a Spell Caster who did not know anything about runology to become a master in runology in an instant. All sorts of Runic Magic Circles could be easily arranged.

"Good, good. I've never thought that it was actually true. With this Runic Heartprint, I'll be able to activate any Runic Magic Circle no matter how complicated it is!"

Merlin was overjoyed. He did not understand runology so he had to forcefully break any Runic Magic Circles he encountered, which was extremely troublesome. Moreover, some incredibly complicated and powerful Runic Magic Circles were not inferior to other powerful Magic Abilities and were extremely tough to forcefully break.

Now that he had the mysterious Runic Heartprint, he had nothing to fear regarding Runic Magic Circles anymore. After all, the Great Wizard Fidel had reached the peak in the comprehension of runology. The Great Wizard Fidel would even be able to reach the peak of the Great Wizards by relying on runes and become second only to those great legends!

"It's time to leave!"

Merlin was very satisfied after obtaining the Runic Heartprint. He did not return to the seventh floor but instead drew a picture in the air inside the small room itself, fiercely activating the Runic Heartprint.

Instantly, mysterious runes from the Runic Heartprint shot out and formed a Runic Magic Circle. This was a simple Transport Magic Circle that Merlin could easily arrange by using the Runic Heartprint.

Then, Merlin walked into the Runic Magic Circle. White light wrapped around Merlin, and he instantly disappeared from the Runic Magic Circle.

Chapter 396: Runology

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

Outside the Runic Tower, several Spell Casters saw the light on the seventh floor, which showed that Merlin had entered the seventh floor again and was starting to attempt to conquer the seventh floor of the Runic Tower.

"As expected of Wizard Merlin. He can even enter the seventh floor of the Runic Tower at will. I thought that Wizard Merlin entered by fluke the previous time. Who would have thought that he would be able to enter the seventh floor again? Looks like Merlin's strength enabled him to easily enter the seventh floor!"

"Wizard Merlin didn't manage to conquer the seventh floor previously. I wonder what the result is this time?"

The Spell Casters outside the Runic Tower came to try their luck in conquering the Runic Tower. However, now that Merlin had entered the seventh floor, they simply watched the outcome from the outside.

"Rumble."

Suddenly, the entire Runic Tower began to shake. Many Spell Casters were shocked and did not know what was happening. However, it stopped just as suddenly as it had started. Before some Spell Casters were even able to react, the shaking had stopped.

"What's going on?"

"What just happened? What happened to the Runic Tower?"

The shaking of the Runic Tower had just stopped, and several Spell Casters had not returned to their senses yet. However, they were astonished to find that the gate to the first floor of the Runic Tower was completely sealed.

"Whoosh whoosh whoosh."

At the same time, several Spell Casters who were attempting the Runic Tower were transported out one by one. Even they did not know what was going on, and they all expressed confusion on their faces.

Some Spell Casters even tried to enter the Runic Tower again but as they approached it, they were blocked by a thin layer of light. There was no way to enter.

Even if they wanted to break this layer of light, they would not be able to do so even with several Seventh-level Spell Casters.

"Oh, the Runic Tower must be sealed!"

"The Runic Tower is sealed? It'll only seal after someone conquers the seventh floor. Are you saying that someone conquered the seventh floor and obtained the treasure that the Great Wizard Fidel left behind?"

"Wizard Merlin must've conquered the seventh floor!"

It was only speculation at first, but as more and more Spell Casters recalled the information about the Runic Tower, they came to the realization that the treasure of the seventh floor of the Runic Tower had been taken away by someone.

Besides Wizard Merlin, no one in the Dark Magic Region could conquer the seventh floor of the Runic Tower.

"Whoosh whoosh whoosh."

Many Wizards were guessing and speculating outside the Runic Tower when a white light suddenly appeared outside Wizard Leo's Tower. A figure staggered out from the white light.

"It really can transport me here!"

The figure that walked out of the white light was Merlin, who had just left the Runic Tower. He used the Runic Heartprint to arrange a Runic Magic Circle which directly transported him outside Wizard Leo's Tower.

This had also helped him avoid several unnecessary troubles.

Merlin looked at the direction of the Runic Tower. He knew that after conquering the seventh floor and obtaining the Runic Heartprint, the entire Runic Tower would be sealed. This was a major event, and he was worried that the entire Dark Magic Region would be strongly affected.

Thus, he directly used the Runic Heartprint and arranged a Runic Magic Circle to return to Wizard Leo's Tower.

Merlin hurried back to the Wizard Tower. Although Wizard Leo had died, his Wizard Tower was still around. According to the rules of the Dark Magic Region, once it was determined that a Spell Caster above the Fourth-level was dead, his Wizard Tower would be removed.

However, the Dark Magic Region was still under investigation, so the Wizard Tower could still exist for a year. If Merlin still had not become a Fourth-level Spell Caster after a year, then the Dark Magic Region would arrange other tutors for him.

With Merlin's current potential, if other tutors were to be arranged to him, most of them would be Spell Casters above the Seventh-level from the Dark Magic Region.

Merlin did not think about those matters. He went directly to the room and began to check some content regarding runes in the Runic Heartprint.

Runology, alchemy, and potions were all said to have the same status as spells construction, especially runology, which was vast and profound. A Spell Caster proficient in runology could even challenge many powerful Spell Casters, which was incredibly unfathomable.

Merlin was not clear before but looking at the introduction of the Runic Heartprint now, he slowly began to gain an understanding of runology.

The core and the most fundamental source of power in runology was Mind Power! Mind Power was illusory. A general Spell Caster would use Mind Power to imitate Spell Model and stabilize Spell Models, but besides that, it did not seem to have any other function.

However, if one wanted to research runology and arrange Runic Magic Circles, Mind Power was essential.

Runes were, in fact, more like mysterious imprints. These imprints were activated by Mind Power in a special way, and then combined and arranged to form mysterious Runic Magic Circles.

This was a rather complicated process. Mind Power was illusory, and only the Spell Caster himself would be able to control it. Even Merlin's Matrix was unable to control the illusory Mind Power.

Since the Matrix could not control Mind Power, Merlin naturally could not rely on the Matrix to learn and research runology. However, after conquering the seventh floor of the Runic Tower and obtaining the Great Wizard Fidel's Runic Heartprint, Merlin could be considered to have a systematic understanding of runology.

Runology relied on Mind Power to activate runes. Originally, these runes were also illusory and could not interfere with matter. However, when countless runes were arranged in a specific way, changes could be formed.

Different Runic Magic Circles could use the power of different Elements such as Runic Thunder and Runic Wind which used Runic Magic Circles to grasp the power of the Elements. Thus, their power was not inferior to Spells or even Pandora Demon Abilities.

This was runology! If Wizards used Spell Models to absorb Elements and transform that into Magic Power, then releasing Spells was all about using the power in their own Spell Models.

The stronger the Spell Model, the stronger the Magic Power! However, runology was completely different. It used Runic Magic Circles to control the power of Elements. The more refined the Runic Magic Circle, the more perfect and stronger the arrangement, the more powerful it would be. There was no need to be a powerful Spell Caster.

In the Spell Casters' most glorious era, the strongest First-level and Second-level Spell Casters who were proficient in runology would even be able to kill Seventh-level Spell Casters by using Runic Magic Circles!

Of course, such Wizards were rare. If the Runic Magic Circle was too complicated, it would require a terrifying amount of Mind Power. Furthermore, runes were much more complicated than Spells.

"It really is hard to research runology. Thankfully, I have the Runic Heartprint now, so I don't have to spend my energy learning runes."

Merlin had some knowledge of runology, and even more understanding of the Runic Heartprint.

This was the result of the Great Wizard Fidel life's painstaking effort. It contained numerous Runic Magic Circles which could be activated at any time using the Runic Heartprint.

To Merlin, this was an extremely powerful casting tool. With the Runic Heartprint, Merlin no longer had to be afraid of being attacked of trapped by others who used Runic Magic Circles.

Merlin looked at the Runic Heartprint repeatedly and was relieved when he confirmed that he could indeed freely control the Runic Heartprint.

However, even with the Runic Heartprint, it was not enough. Merlin did not have any advantage in the chaos that would follow. Furthermore, Darkness Eye still consumed the power of the Flame Maxim unceasingly.

Therefore, the most important thing now was to construct Fourth-level spells as soon as possible!

To construct a Fourth-level spell, he must first increase his Mind Power. Only when his Mind Power was strong enough would he be able to construct Fourth-level spells. Merlin's ring contained thousands of portions of Mokra Potions, but he lacked the time to brew them.

Now was the perfect opportunity to brew potions. Thinking about this, Merlin took out the Mokra Potion materials from the ring and began to brew the potions in the peaceful Wizard Tower.

…

"Whoosh."

In the silent forest, the falling maple leaves painted the entire forest red.

A black-robed figure slowly appeared from the maple forest. He looked around and walked to a thick maple tree and clapped it skillfully.

"Bang."

The maple tree shook violently. At the same time, the thick layer of maple leaves on the ground was blown away by the strong wind, revealing a mysterious Runic Magic Circle. No one knew how long it had remained unused.

"I've finally found it! The Dark Magic Region really is hard to find. Fortunately, three Seventh-level Spell Casters from the Dark Magic Region died at Blacksand Fort this time and I've obtained their Dark Magic rings. Otherwise, even if I found the Runic Magic Circle, I still wouldn't be able to enter Dark Magic Region."

This mysterious black-robed figure then took out a Dark Magic ring and used Mind Power to activate the Runic Magic Circle. The Dark Magic ring in his hands and the mysterious runes that flew out one by one corresponded to the Runic Magic Circle on the ground.

"Swoosh."

A white light quickly enveloped the black-robed Wizard, and he disappeared in the blink of an eye.

Chapter 397: Troubled Times

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

Merlin returned to his senses from the haze. He had been brewing potions for a long time and after brewing a few portions, he started to use them.

Every time he consumed the potion, he would have to sleep for a period of time. Therefore, Merlin was currently in a dreamy state of being half asleep and half awake.

However, his Mind Power did grow at a rapid pace. The Mokra Potion effects also began to weaken a little but could still support Merlin's Mind Power growth. If he finished taking all the Mokra Potions, there would be no problem for his Mind Power to grow to the Sixth-level.

"The Mokra Potions have finished. I'll have to brew them again!"

Merlin looked at the Mokra Potion materials in the ring and found that there was still a large amount left as if they were uncountable. In this period, he could only vaguely remember that he took around thirteen portions of Mokra Potions.

As there were too many potions, Merlin did not check on the growth of his Mind Power and simply repeated the same actions of brewing the potions, consuming the potions, and sleeping throughout a period of time.

"Rumble."

Just as Merlin was about to continue brewing the potions, he found that the entire Wizard Tower started shaking. He focused his eyes slightly and saw that there seemed to be some drastic changes outside the Wizard Tower.

"Whoosh."

The Runic Heartprint appeared on Merlin's forehead. Merlin quickly arranged the Runic Magic Circle and left the Wizard Tower directly.

…

The Dark Magic Region had always been peaceful with not many changes. It was impossible for the outside world to disturb them. If one wanted to enter the mysterious Dark Magic Region, one would need to go through the Runic Magic Circle by using the precious Dark Magic ring.

Besides the official members of the Dark Magic Region who had the Dark Magic ring, outsider Spell Caster would not have the Dark Magic ring at all. Without the Dark Magic ring, it was impossible to enter the Dark Magic Region.

As such, the peace and calmness of the Dark Magic Region had been maintained for hundreds of years.

Now, the peace of the Dark Magic Region had been broken. The entire sky seemed to be shrouded in a faint light where numerous mysterious runes flashed by.

This was the activation of the Runic Magic Circle which protected the Dark Magic Region. This huge Runic Magic Circle was personally arranged by the Great Wizard Fidel, and rumor had it that it could even block attacks from Great Wizards.

At this time, in the sky shrouded by the Runic Magic Circle, a huge black cat slowly walked in the air and spoke. Its voice reached the ears of every Spell Caster in the Dark Magic Region.

"There's a foreign invasion!"

This huge black cat was the spirit of the Runic Magic Circle in the Dark Magic Region stone tablet, Didimoss. As the spirit of the Runic Magic Circle in the Dark Magic Region, the black cat Didimoss was clear about anyone trying to enter the Dark Magic Region.

"Foreign invasion? How could that be? How long has it been since the Dark Magic Region has been discovered and invaded by foreign enemies?"

"Even the Runic Magic Circle has been activated. Besides Sir Didimoss, only Wizard Delma, the only Ninth-level Spell Caster in our Dark Magic Region can activate the Runic Magic Circle. However, Wizard Delma hasn't shown himself for a long time. Would he simply activate the Runic Magic Circle like that?"

Many Spell Casters were shocked to see the black cat Didimoss in the air. These Spell Casters were no strangers to Didimoss, the spirit of the Runic Magic Circle that the Great Wizard Fidel had personally created. It could be the oldest existence in the Dark Magic Region.

At the same time, the black cat Didimoss controlled the big Runic Circle, silently guarding the entire Dark Magic Region.

"Damn it! It's another damn Runic Magic Circle. The Dark Magic Region really is a spell casters' organization that's most proficient in runology. It could trap me and make things so difficult for me."

A black-robed Spell Caster stood out conspicuously under the Runic Magic Circle. He had been firmly locked up by the Runic Magic Circle.

The Runic Magic Circle controlled by Didimoss could bring out the greatest power. Even Great Wizards would not be able to break it, much less this mysterious Spell Caster.

The fluctuations on this mysterious Spell Caster was only the Seventh-level at best. He entered the Dark Magic Region for an unknown reason and had caught the attention of the black cat Didimoss.

Low-level Spell Casters were easily ignored by Didimoss but Spell Casters of the Seventh-level and above were very important to the black cat Didimoss.

After all, there were only a few Spell Casters of the Seventh-level and above in the entire Dark Magic Region, and Didimoss also knew who all of them were. However, this mysterious and unfamiliar Spell Caster was a Seventh-level Spell Caster, and also had the Dark Magic ring, so it was natural that it would arouse Didimoss' suspicion.

"Whoosh whoosh whoosh."

Several Seventh-level Spell Casters flew out from the highest Wizard Tower in the Dark Magic Region, including Wizard Morse. However, they did not know what was going on and could only see the black-robed Spell Caster currently imprisoned in mid-air.

The black-robed man imprisoned in the air had a sullen expression. Then, he sneered, took a deep breath, and shouted, "I'm a Seventh-level Wizard from Shadow Thorn, Wizard Tom!"

"Shadow Thorn?"

Perhaps the lower level Wizard did not know about Shadow Thorn but after hearing the declaration from the Spell Caster of Shadow Thorn as well as seeing his black Wizard robe and logo, the Spell Casters of the Seventh-level and above were very clear.

"It really is a Spell Caster from Shadow Thorn. What is he doing in our Dark Magic Region?"

"How did a Wizard from Shadow Thorn enter?"

There were many questions but under Didimoss' oppression, the power of the Runic Magic Circle was gradually about to crush Tom.

At this time, Wizard Tom finally put away his arrogance and continued. "I was sent here by the grand elder to invite Wizard Delma from the Dark Magic Region. If you ask Wizard Delma to come out, everything will become clear."

"Wizard Delma?"

The Seventh-level Spell Casters were stunned, but their expressions quickly became heavy. The lower level Spell Casters including Merlin did not know who Wizard Delma was.

"Wizard Delma? I've never heard of him before but judging by the attitude of those Seventh-level Wizards, he must be an important person in the Dark Magic Region. Could he be the one and only Ninth-level Wizard in the Dark Magic Region?"

Countless thoughts flashed past Merlin's mind. He had gone to Blacksand Fort before and naturally knew that the Spell Caster trapped by Didimoss was a Wizard from Shadow Thorn.

"Alright, Didimoss, put Wizard Tom down."

Without anyone's notice, an energetic aged Spell Caster with a ruddy face appeared in the air. His eyes, especially, were as deep as the stars, leaving a profound impression on the others.

"Wizard Delma!"

The Seventh-level Spell Casters greeted immediately. Now, even the dullest Spell Casters knew that it was Wizard Delma standing before them, the strongest Wizard in the entire Dark Magic Region, the Ninth-level Spell Caster Wizard Delma!

Heeding Wizard Delma's words, the black cat Didimoss nodded and gradually disappeared. The ever-present Runic Magic Circle shrouding the entire Dark Magic Region also slowly faded away.

Wizard Tom broke out of his restraints but his face was gloomy, and his eyes held some fear. As a Seventh-level Spell Caster from Shadow Thorn, how would he value a mere small-sized spell casters' organization like the Dark Magic Region?

However, he never expected that the Runic Magic Circle of the Dark Magic Region would be so formidable. It was much more powerful than the Runic Magic Circle in Blacksand Fort and Shadow Thorn. He suspected that even the Great Wizards would be unable to easily break the Runic Magic Circle in the Dark Magic Region.

Therefore, Wizard Tom put aside his contempt and went up to Wizard Delma before saying lowly, "Wizard Delma, I believe you've already gotten information regarding Blacksand Fort. Ozmu was too unbridled and led Spell Casters to attack Blacksand Fort and even killed the Spell Casters in our southern Spell Caster world on the way. The Dark Magic Region also lost three Seventh-level Spell Casters. Thus, Shadow Thorn, Miracle City, and Blacksand Fort have sent Spell Casters to various spell casters' organization to invite their strongest Spell Casters to discuss this major event in Miracle City. This is the image of Miracle City, Blacksand Fort, and Shadow Thorn signing a contract of an alliance. Please have a look, Wizard Delma."

After speaking, Wizard Tom carved out a few simple runes, in which there were indeed three extremely large Spell Caster life forces that had jointly signed the agreement.

Wizard Delma's eyes flickered slightly. He recognized the three Wizards who had signed the agreement. They were all Great Wizards from Shadow Thorn, Miracle City, and Blacksand Fort. The three large-sized spell casters' organizations had really joined hands.

Wizard Delma could not refuse such an invitation. Otherwise, he would have to face the three large-sized spell casters' organizations. It was an invitation on the surface but the fact was he had no choice but to go.

In the southern Spell Caster world, no one could go against the three large-sized spell casters' organizations!

"Alright, please wait a moment, Wizard Tom. I'll make some arrangements and follow you."

Wizard Delma remained silent for a moment before responding slowly.

"Of course, as you wish, Wizard Delma."

Wizard Tom smiled. As he expected, the Dark Magic Region did not dare to refuse the invitation of the three large-sized spell casters' organizations. This time, Miracle City, Shadow Thorn, and Blacksand Fort had suffered a huge loss. They naturally would not be willing to just let it go.

Originally, the three large-sized spell casters' organizations had been ready to go against Ozmu but now that this had happened, there were indeed some losses. However, it gave them a more appropriate reason to unite the entire southern Spell Caster world to deal with Ozmu together.

Below, Merlin also saw the images that Wizard Tom recorded in runes. Among the three Wizards, Merlin could only recognize one. That was the Great Wizard Utto, whom he saw in Blacksand Fort.

As he was a Great Wizard, Merlin had a very deep impression of Great Wizard Utto. Now, seeing that the Great Wizard Utto personally appeared to sign the agreement, the two other Spell Casters were obviously not simple either. There was a large possibility that they were also Great Wizards.

"These are troubled times. The three large-sized spell casters' organizations must be starting to act!"

Merlin secretly speculated that since Ozmu's previous move was too large, it was impossible for the three large-sized spell casters' organizations, the strongest in the southern Spell Caster world, to remain indifferent.

Perhaps Ozmu's sudden action had disrupted their previous plans and delayed their own attack on Ozmu, but with this, they were able to unite the factions in the southern Spell Caster world closely.

"Let's go, Wizard Tom!"

After Wizard Delma had finished his arrangements, he and Wizard Tom spared no time and quickly disappeared from sight.

Chapter 398: Fourth-Level Spell!

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

Peace returned to the Dark Magic Region but the departure of their Ninth-level Spell Caster still caused a lot of discussions. Perhaps others did not know what this meant, but Merlin, who personally experienced Blacksand Fort, knew exactly how serious this matter was.

"Ninth-level Spell Casters were invited, and the three large spell casters' organizations have signed an agreement. They're really going to act against Ozmu. They've gathered almost all the forces in the southern Spell Caster world!"

Merlin was very clear that if even a small spell casters' organization like the Dark Magic Region was invited, it obviously meant that those three large-sized spell casters' organizations were ready to act.

Ozmu could fight against almost all large spell casters' organizations. Although it had great strength, the deeper reason laid in the fact that Ozmu's old nest was too hidden. Even if large spell casters' organizations wanted to destroy it, they could not as they cannot find the place.

This was somewhat different from the Dark Magic Region where one could kill a member of the Dark Magic Region and seize the Dark Magic ring to forcefully enter the Dark Magic Region. However, no one knew where Ozmu's old nest was located as it was incredibly mysterious.

This time, it was different. Blacksand Fort knew where Ozmu's old nest was. Perhaps it was because of this that Ozmu became reckless and decided to send Spell Casters led by the Black-White Great Wizard to attack Blacksand Fort.

Fortunately, Blacksand Fort also had a hidden trump card, which was a powerful Guardian Spirit that even the Black-White Great Wizard was no match against. The chaos in Blacksand Fort had instead brought together the forces in the southern Spell Caster world.

( NovelFull ) "Chaos is coming. I have to hurry and increase my Mind Power!"

Merlin returned to the Wizard Tower. This time, he frantically brewed potions day and night. As Merlin grasped the fire handling of potion-making and became more skillful, his success rate of brewing Mokra Potions also increased. What was originally a thirty percent success rate was increased to a nearly forty percent success rate.

Merlin was overjoyed by such a high success rate. Mokra Potions were extremely valuable, and although its effects had decreased now, it was still much more effective than the Bell Space and other potions.

He prepared several portions of Mokra Potions daily and used the next several days to consume the potion to increase his Mind Power.

Thus, Merlin's Mind Power very quickly rose to the beginning stage of the Fifth-level, then to the middle stage of the Fifth-level, and continued to grow, gradually reaching the peak of the Fifth-level.

At this time, more than a month had passed. Wizard Delma never returned even once, and the southern Spell Caster world remained peaceful as always.

However, Merlin knew that behind the peace, a huge storm was brewing.

"Peak of the Fifth-level. I can try constructing Fourth-level Spells now!"

Merlin finally stopped brewing Mokra Potions. He had consumed almost half of the Mokra Potions that he had prepared, and his Mind Power had reached the peak of the Fifth-level.

A large amount of accumulation was needed to increase one's Mind Power from the Fifth-level to the Sixth-level and it was impossible to do so in a short amount of time. Hence, Merlin did not continue brewing Mokra Potions and chose to construct spells instead.

At Merlin's current Mind Power level, it was not difficult to construct Fourth-level spells at all. He could construct several Fourth-level spells. Although it was unlikely that he could successfully construct Six-Elemental spells, there was no problem constructing the most powerful Fourth-level spells.

The difference was that the Fourth-level spells that needed to be constructed were, in the end, ordinary Fourth-level spells that used the Maxim as well as consumed the power of the Flame Maxim to derive a completely new Fourth-level spell.

"Matrix, derive new Fourth-level Fire-type Spell Model!"

Merlin activated the Matrix and started to check the two hundred and more Fourth-level Fire-type Spell Models derived after he consumed the Flame Maxim.

In the beginning, due to Merlin's insufficient Mind Power, he did not construct these Fire-type Fourth-level spells. However, it was different now. Merlin's Mind Power had reached the peak of the Fifth-level and was enough to construct several Fourth-level spells.

Most of the two hundred or so Spell Models had very high compatibility. They were all at least ninety percent and above, and there were even some with a hundred percent compatibility.

The biggest difference between the derived Spell Models and ordinary Spell Models was compatibility. Moreover, by deriving a new Spell Model according to the previously constructed Spell Models, the compatibility could reach a hundred percent.

Now, Merlin had to choose a Spell Model with a hundred percent compatibility. He would only be able to fully bring out the power of a Spell Model that way.

Merlin looked closely at the Fire-type Spell Model which he had constructed before. The Zero-level spell Fireball, First-level spell Furious Flame, Second-level Sea of Purgatory Fire, and Third-level spell Condensed Fire.

Apart from the ordinary Fireball, all the other spells were extremely complicated and were Offensive spells. Their offensive power was outstanding among other spells.

In this way, Merlin's choice of his Fourth-level spells had to be extremely violent, have very strong Offensive power, and possess high compatibility. Among the two hundred or so Spell Models, Merlin only found two such spells which fit his criteria.

After careful screening, Merlin finally picked a Spell Model that was derived by the Matrix. It had a hundred percent compatibility with the Spell Model constructed by Merlin previously, and was frighteningly powerful.

Such a powerful Spell Model should be very complicated and extremely difficult to construct, but newly derived spells were not like that. Spells that were derived by the Spell Casters themselves according to the situation were very convenient to construct, and the difficulty would be greatly reduced as well.

Basically, as long as one could derive new spells by themselves and had sufficient Mind Power, then one would basically be able to simulate the success of a spell in the Awareness. It was very simple and was also one of the benefits of deriving a spell.

Since he chose the spell, Merlin began to maneuver all his Mind Power and concentrated in simulating the first derived Spell Model.

Time passed bit by bit. Although the derived Spell Model was a good simulation and was not too complicated, it still required a long period of time.

"Boom!"

An unknown amount of time passed before Merlin's Awareness shook fiercely. A huge Spell Model appeared in his Awareness, and countless Fire Elements frantically entered the new Spell Model, quickly converting into Magic Power.

"It finally succeeded! My first Fourth-level spell!"

Merlin could feel that his Awareness was currently full of raging flames. Compared to the Fourth-level and below spells constructed before, a Fourth-level spell really was quite different.

It was just a single Fourth-level Spell Model, but its power was almost equal to all the previous Spell Models. Of course, that did not include the Pandora Demon Ability.

Fourth-level spells were a qualitative improvement. Merlin could clearly feel that the Spell Model of newly constructed Fourth-level Fire-type spell greatly suppressed the other Spell Models in his Awareness.

"Let's see how powerful it is."

Merlin sucked in a breath and felt that some Magic Power had accumulated in the Spell Model, so he used his Mind Power to simulate it and immediately released the spell.

"Boom!"

Flames covered the sky, faintly descending and enveloping the entire room. Everything that was touched by the flames was reduced to ashes.

"How powerful! The power of the spell itself can rival the power of ordinary Sixth-level spells!"

Merlin was pleasantly surprised to see that the derived spell power was so terrifying. He also noticed that the ability to release a strengthened version of the spell after releasing three ordinary spells had disappeared.

Merlin rarely cast the strengthened version spells after he cultivated a powerful Pandora Demon Ability. Merlin did not know what caused the strengthened version spells and why there were strengthened version spells.

However, now, Merlin slowly understood.

It was because the previous spells did not have a hundred percent compatibility and could never reach the point where it was most compatible with the Spell Caster. Therefore, the power of the spell could not be maximized.

Previously, the strengthened spells helped Merlin to bring out the true power of the spell into play. Now, after the new spell was derived by the Matrix using data integration, the compatibility became almost a hundred percent, reaching the point of perfect compatibility.

Therefore, the Fourth-level Fire-type spell which Merlin had constructed could be used to its full power at any time. There was naturally no strengthened version of the spell because the spell itself was already at the pinnacle of its power.

"I never thought that derived spells would be able to use its full power! The spell was able to burn everything in the room into ashes. With this formidable power, this completely new Fourth-level spell shall be called Incinerating Fire."

Merlin named this brand-new Fourth-level spell. Henceforth, there was a new Fourth-level spell in the world, Incinerating Fire!

Even in the future, Merlin could pass down Incinerating Fire, and make it a powerful spell unique to the Wilson clan.

Seeing the might of Incinerating Fire, it was indeed very powerful and could rival Sixth-level spells. However, it was not enough just by relying on the strength of the spell. There were still fire-type Pandora Demon Abilities!

Presently, Merlin only had Fiery Collapse, which strength was also quite strong. Although it was a Pandora Demon Ability that could not be combined with spells, it was suppressed by the Flame Maxim and forcefully fused into the Fire-type spells, so it also played a role in making the spells incredibly powerful.

Now, Merlin wanted to try and see if he could fuse Fiery Collapse into his newly constructed, brand-new Fourth-level spell, Incinerating Fire.

This kind of attempt was extremely important. Once successful, the power of Incinerating Fire would increase multiple folds.

Thinking about this, Merlin no longer hesitated and started to control Fiery Collapse.

"Fuse!"

Merlin immediately tried to fuse Fiery Collapse with Incinerating Fire.

Chapter 399: Derivation

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

Incinerating Fire was a Fourth-level spell that had a hundred percent compatibility with Merlin's previous spells. As for Fiery Collapse, it was a powerful Pandora Demon Ability.

Merlin now had a slight understanding of Pandora Demon Abilities. This mysterious and formidable power did not have to be specifically under certain spells but compatibility!

This kind of compatibility was virtually the same as the compatibility between spells. There was also compatibility between Pandora Demon Abilities and spells.

For example, it was absolutely impossible for Glacial Finger to be compatible with Fire-type spells. They were basically two different Elements and two different powers.

However, Glacial Finger could be compatible with Ice-type spells. Certain Ice-type spells had extremely high compatibility with Glacial Finger.

Therefore, with high compatibility, the Pandora Demon Ability could be successfully cultivated.

Merlin had now constructed a brand-new Fourth-level spell. Its prominent characteristic was that it conformed to Merlin's own characteristics as well as the characteristics of the spells he constructed in the past. As long as he successfully cultivated Pandora Demon Abilities for the previous spells, then there was no problem cultivating a Pandora Demon Ability for a Fourth-level spell with a hundred percent compatibility.

( NovelFull ) That included the merging of Fiery Collapse. Under the suppression of the Flame Maxim as well as the long amount of time it fused with Fire-type spells, the fusion between Fiery Collapse and Incinerating Fire was quite smooth.

"Phew…"

After a long moment, Merlin breathed out a sigh of relief. He held out his hand gently, and a flame emitting white light rose from his hand. It was Incinerating Fire!

"The fusion was a success. Incinerating Fire and Fiery Collapse merged, and its power was instantly raised to a level that's comparable to a regular Seventh-level spell. However, this is merely the first form of Fiery Collapse!"

Just by relying on Incinerating Fire, the strength was comparable to a Sixth-level spell, much less by adding Fiery Collapse. The power instantly increased to the point of a Seventh-level spell.

Furthermore, it was just the first form of Fiery Collapse. There were still second and third forms of Fiery Collapse. Now that Merlin had constructed a Fourth-level spell, he could cultivate the second form of Fiery Collapse.

Merlin still required the treasure from the ancient monument to cultivate the second form of Fiery Collapse which was pale white. After all, the treasures needed to cultivate the second form of Fiery Collapse were quite special.

"The third form of Darkness Eye can kill a regular Seventh-level Spell Caster! If Fiery Collapse is cultivated to its second form as well, its power would be terrifying. It might even be able to kill a regular Seventh-level Spell Caster."

Merlin carefully thought in his heart that between Darkness Eye and Fiery Collapse, there was no comparison between the two types of Pandora Demon Abilities.

The power of Fiery Collapse might not be as powerful as Darkness Eye. However, if it was fused into a spell and coupled with the strength of the spell itself, its power would be quite considerable.

Moreover, the new Fourth-level spell was derived by Merlin. From then on, Merlin would no longer be a traditional Spell Caster. In the future, the Fifth-, Sixth-, and even Seventh-level and above Spell Casters would have no practical reference significance to Merlin.

That was because Merlin had already embarked on another path — a way to derive spells and understand the essence of Elements alone. It was a path to becoming a Great Legend!

In the Spell Casters' most glorious era, the number of Spell Casters who started deriving from Fourth-level spells were quite rare. However, those Spell Casters were terrifying. Generally, Spell Casters who started deriving from Fourth-level spells did not simply aim to be Great Wizards, but the position above the Great Wizard – a Great Legend!

Only Great Legends could condense a Maxim and explore the essence and true meaning of spells. Deriving spells by oneself was the beginning of exploring the essence and true meaning of spells. They were better than Spell Casters who started deriving spells from the Seventh-level onward.

The probability of becoming a Legendary Wizard after starting to derive from Fourth-level spells was quite high.

Even Merlin himself could vaguely feel that the spells from ordinary Wizard were no longer suitable for him. After all, the Spell Casters who just merely constructed spells were simply too weak. In the Spell Casters' most glorious era, ordinary Wizard used a combination of spells and Pandora Demon Abilities which could burst into incomparable power. That was the true strength of Wizards.

Unfortunately, the number of Spell Casters were rare now. All sorts of inheritances had been submerged in the long river of history. One of the most common Pandora Demon Abilities could make many Spell Casters go crazy. It simply could not be compared to the Spell Casters' most glorious era.

Even in the Spell Casters' most glorious era, only Merlin was a Wizard who was extremely valiant and had unlimited potential!

The fusion of Incinerating Fire and Fiery Collapse was successful but that did not mean the end. On the contrary, it was just the beginning. His Mind Power was enough to support him in constructing several new Fourth-level spells!

"I'll need to consume some power of the Maxim to derive the spells. Although the power of the Maxim is extremely valuable, it's not my own power. Only by deriving spells and constructing them in the Awareness would I be able to control this unique power! Next, I'll derive a Fourth-level Darkness-type spell!"

Merlin took a deep breath. This time, he wanted to derive a Fourth-level Darkness-type spell.

Currently, Merlin had Zero-level spell Dark Mist, First-level Dark Light Realm, Second-level Darkness Tide, and Third-level Darkness Vortex.

These were all Hallucinating spells. If Merlin wanted to derive a new Darkness-type Spell, he should move in that direction if he wanted it to obtain a hundred percent compatibility.

Originally, Merlin already obtained a Fourth-level Darkness-type spell Darkness Nightmare in Abyss Fort. He even had Fifth- and Sixth-level Darkness-type spells. They were all extremely complicated and powerful spells.

Among them was a Fourth-level spell called Darkness Nightmare, which seemed to have reached the pinnacle of illusions. Thus, the Fifth-level and above Darkness-type spells began to develop in the direction of illusions and reality interfering with matter.

Merlin also considered ahead of time that the Fourth-level Darkness-type spell he wanted to derive should also be developed in this direction. Not only were Hallucinating spells strong but it could also influence a Seventh-level Spell Caster's Mind Power.

Even if a Seventh-level Spell Caster could not be dragged into an illusion, he still had to be affected. Besides influencing, it also had to possess strong offensive power.

This was the Fourth-level Darkness-type spell that Merlin needed!

"Matrix, start the analysis. Derive all Fourth-level Darkness-type spells!"

"Beep, commence derivation!"

Deriving an entirely new spell required a large amount of time. Especially this time, deriving a Darkness-type spell seemed to be even more complicated, so the time required was even longer.

Merlin simply waited quietly.

After waiting for more than ten hours, the sky outside the Wizard Tower gradually darkened, and the Matrix finally finished deriving a new Darkness spell.

"Beep, a total of three hundred and forty-three Fourth-level Darkness-type Spell Models have been derived!"

The Matrix had derived more than three hundred Darkness-type spells. Merlin did not look at them immediately, but instead rushed to check on the Flame Maxim in his Awareness.

The change in the Flame Maxim was obvious. Merlin could clearly feel that it seemed to have become smaller. Deriving Darkness-type spells really did consume the Flame Maxim a little.

Currently, Merlin only had one Maxim. Therefore, this sole Flame Maxim was especially crucial. Every little loss could not be recovered.

"Only two more Fourth-level skill can be derived. Otherwise, I'm afraid the Flame Maxim will really be exhausted!"

Merlin secretly decided in his heart that after Darkness-type spells, he would only derive two other Fourth-level spells and no more. The Flame Maxim could be used but it could not be completely exhausted.

He would leave a little to better suppress Darkness Eye as well as Fiery Collapse, just in case of any accidents.

After looking at the Flame Maxim, Merlin focused his attention on the Fourth-level spells derived by the Matrix. These three hundred or so Fourth-level spells mostly had high compatibility, and there were several dozen with a hundred percent compatibility.

However, Merlin only selected a few spells that had a hundred percent compatibility. All these spells had powerful hallucination effects, and none was inferior to Darkness Nightmare.

In the end, Merlin chose a spell that could not only influence the mind of a Spell Caster but could also stimulate a slight strangling power, which could strangle a Spell Caster trapped in an illusion.

For this spell, Merlin named it Darkness Illusory Death!

Now that a brand-new spell was derived, the next step was to simulate it in his Awareness. Merlin had done this step countless times, so he was already very familiar with it.

Soon, he simulated Spell Model of Darkness Illusory Death in his Awareness and merged it with Darkness Heart. It also smoothly raised to the second stage as well.

For Darkness Heart, as long as a Fourth-level Darkness spell was constructed, it could reach the second stage directly. It was also the strongest form of Darkness Heart and could improve the strength of a spell by five to ten times.

This was quite frightening. Merlin's Darkness spells were already powerful to begin with. Their destructive power could not be compared to Fire-type spells, but when it came to the degree of bizarreness and the effects of dealing with Spell Casters, Darkness spells were definitely the most powerful.

However, once a Spell Caster had reached the Seventh-level, his Mind Power would evolve, and the advantages of Darkness-type spells would be less obvious. As they were simply pure illusions, the advantages would turn into disadvantages as well.

However, Darkness Illusory Death was not purely an illusion as it also had the power of strangulation. Coupled with the amplification from Darkness Heart, it could also easily kill a regular Seventh-level Spell Caster!

"The two most important spells have been derived. The next choice would be much easier."

A smile appeared on Merlin's face. He had decided the next spell he would derive to be a Wind-type spell.

Chapter 400: Returning to the Ancient Monument I

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

In comparison, deriving a Wind-type spell was much simpler. In Merlin's Awareness, he had constructed Zero-level spell Gale, First-level spell Wind of Freedom, Second-level spell Light Breeze, and Third-level spell Shadow Gust.

These spells were speed enhancers and had distinctive features. If Merlin wanted to derive a new Fourth-level spell, it would need to have sufficient speed.

Moreover, a Fourth-level Wind-type spell had another feature, which was to enable flight. Currently, Merlin could only rely on the Flying casting tool to fly, but he was no match for Spell Casters above the Fourth-level in terms of speed.

The exception was if Merlin could merge with Flash Wind. However, this would consume too much energy. Flash Wind was not meant for speeding up journeys, but for battle. It was able to increase one's speed countless times in an instant.

Therefore, if Merlin were to construct a new Fourth-level Flying spell now, there was no doubt that his speed would increase. Furthermore, if it was combined with Flash Wind, Merlin would be even more elusive during battle. If his opponent did not have Binding spells, then no matter how strong they were, they would be of no threat to Merlin.

Thus, the third spell that Merlin derived was a Fourth-level Wind-type spell.

Following that, he activated the Matrix and began deriving a new Fourth-level Wind-type spell. This time, Merlin monitored the changes of the Flame Maxim at all times.

When the Matrix began to derive a new spell, Merlin clearly felt a change in the Flame Maxim. It really was diminishing bit by bit as it was consumed by the Matrix.

Presently, the Flame Maxim was simply being used as an "energy" to support the derivation of a new spell by the Matrix!

The Flame Maxim was not used up too much. It was the same as when he derived Darkness-type spells — the Maxim shrank a little, and the Fourth-level Wind-type spells were derived.

Merlin selected the spell with a hundred percent compatibility which had greater speed and enabled flight. He named it Rainbow Wind because once it was cast along with Flash Wind, it was like a rainbow beam of astonishing speed.

These newly derived spells had never been created by any Spell Caster before. Being unique, they belonged only to Merlin.

In the future, Merlin could pass these on as spells unique to the Wilson clan.

Once the Wind-type spell was derived, Merlin continued with deriving an Earth-type spell. This would be a Defensive spell and was crucial as well. Based on the current state of the Flame Maxim, it could only further support the derivation of one or two spells at most. If Merlin went all out, he could even use up the Flame Maxim entirely and construct all types of Fourth-level spells.

However, if the Flame Maxim disappeared, it would cause more harm than good, and was not worth it at all.

Therefore, Merlin could only derive this last Earth-type spell.

The features of an Earth-type spell were obvious. It possessed great defensive strength. The derived spells would also have high compatibility. In general, most Earth-type spells that were derived could achieve a hundred percent compatibility rate.

As it turned out, it was as Merlin had predicted. A majority of the Earth-type spells that the Matrix had derived had compatibility that was near a hundred percent.

This time, his choice was not so easy. Most of the spells were almost the same, having only subtle differences in certain aspects. Previously, Merlin's Earth-type spells Earth Guard, Guardian Monument, Earth Veil, and Perfect Armor all shared a similar feature – they provided all-around protection.

Among the spells derived by the Matrix, the defense emphasis of the spells varied. Some were customized to defend from the front with terrifying capabilities whereas others were particularly effective in defending against a certain type of spell.

For spells that defended on all sides, their defensive capability on any one side certainly could not compare to those spells. Nevertheless, in terms of overall strength, they were the most powerful!

Naturally, Merlin chose a spell with all-around defenses. He gave it the name Rippling Armor. The reason for this was that the spell had a similar appearance to a suit of armor. Moreover, once Rippling Armor sustained a blow, ripples would spread across the armor as if it was water.

Each layer of these ripples would reduce the power of the attack by a margin. Through the progressive diminishing caused by the innumerable ripples, the force of the attack would dwindle unceasingly until it finally disappeared.

This was the greatest feature of Rippling Armor.

Furthermore, if it was combined with Pandora Demon Ability Fuse Earth, even the peak of the Seventh-level strength would have no way of overcoming Merlin's Rippling Armor.

"Phew…"

Merlin let out a long sigh at last. He had now derived and constructed Incinerating Fire, Darkness Illusory Death, Rainbow Wind, and Rippling Armor – four Fourth-level spells in total. These were all derived by the Matrix through the consumption of the Flame Maxim.

There was just a small ball left of the Flame Maxim. Merlin decided that before he obtained a new Maxim, he would not exploit the Flame Maxim to derive the remaining Thunder-type and Ice-type spells.

Although Merlin was currently still not a Fourth-level Spell Caster, he had already constructed four newly derived spells. Merlin's abilities were greatly improved. All four spells could be merged with a Pandora Demon Ability. If Merlin were to battle with Kleis once more, he did not have to worry even without activating the third form of Darkness Eye.

At the standard of Fourth-level spells, Merlin's utilization of the Matrix to derive spells was truly the greatest advantage. He had become frightening once more. Even if Kleis had cultivated a scary special Pandora Demon Ability, he was likewise still at the stage of the Fourth-level. Merlin, even without Darkness Eye, was not inferior to Kleis!

This was the double effect of Merlin's derivation of new spells and his Pandora Demon Abilities. Of course, if Kleis was able to successfully cultivate the fourth form of Spatial Blade, Merlin would be no match for him. However, only Spell Casters above the Seventh-level would be able to cultivate the fourth form of a special Pandora Demon Ability.

Otherwise, one would end up like Wizard Leo, who had forcibly activated the fourth form of Darkness Eye and died from the backlash.

Merlin sorted out his abilities. In the past, his powers were in a disorder for he had spells, Pandora Demon Abilities, the Flame Maxim, and even his fortified body.

These strengths were all scattered. As for now, Merlin had gradually brought together spells and Pandora Demon Abilities, completely merging them. The outstanding quality of power in Merlin's spells was developed to the fullest.

Even Kleis could not compare to the spells Merlin had constructed in terms of Fourth-level spells. Thus, by adding his Pandora Demon Abilities, Merlin could enhance the might of his spells to the peak of the Seventh-level. Of course, this only applied to Wind-type, Darkness-type, and Earth-type spells. As for Fire-type Fiery Collapse, it was still at its first form. At best, it was equivalent to an average Seventh-level spell and was still far from the peak of the Seventh-level.

"The second form of Fiery Collapse – it's time for another trip to the ancient monument."

Back then, Merlin clearly recalled that when he left the ancient monument, the flame sprite mentioned that if he wanted to cultivate the second and third form of Fiery Collapse, he would have to visit the ancient monument once more. This was because the treasures that enabled the cultivation of the second and third form of Fiery could only be found there.

As he thought of this, Merlin stood up immediately and left the tower.

The Dark Magic Region was as tranquil as before, with no trace of a tense atmosphere, for it could be considered very isolated. Other than the Spell Casters above the Seventh-level at the higher ranks, not many Spell Casters knew about the situation outside.

Most Spell Casters stayed silently in the Dark Magic Region. Here, there were various cultivation resources such as spells, potions, runology, and so on. Naturally, not many Spell Casters would head out voluntarily, and outsiders who came in were undoubtedly uncommon in the Dark Magic Region.

As a result, most Spell Casters of the Dark Magic Region had no knowledge of what the situation outside was like. Only the Seventh-level Spell Casters of the higher levels would occasionally leave the Dark Magic Region to inquire about the developments outside.

In particular, during recent times, even the sole Ninth-level Spell Caster in the Dark Magic Region, Wizard Delma, had left the Dark Magic Region. Obviously, a great change was brewing, so the higher-ups of the Dark Magic Region would frequently go outside to get updates.

Although Merlin had not left the Dark Magic Region, he knew that chaos was imminent. The great change in the entire southern Spell Caster world and the battle with Ozmu was not as simple as one might imagine. The entire southern Spell Caster world would be altered, and every Spell Caster would be embroiled in the conflict.

"Buzz buzz buzz."

The Runic Heartprint appeared on his forehead. Within the Runic Heartprint, Merlin instantly created a Runic Magic Circle. These Runic Magic Circles were originally left behind in the Runic Heartprint. Now that Merlin controlled it, he was able to control the Runic Magic Circles within.

The mysterious Runic Magic Circle began to gradually twinkle with white light, following which it rapidly engulfed Merlin. A powerful pulling force immediately absorbed Merlin into the Runic Magic Circle.

"Whoosh."

In the blink of an eye, Merlin's figure had disappeared from the Dark Magic Region.

…

In the dense mountain forest, lush, towering trees grew branches heavy with leaves. Birds in flight landed on the canopy and flitted around playfully, chirping constantly.

"Swoosh."

A white ray suddenly flickered. Soon, a black-robed figure stepped out from the white light, descending firmly onto the ground.

"There's a Runic Magic Circle here too? How many of these did the Dark Magic Region set up in the beginning?"

This figure was Merlin, who had just left the Dark Magic Region. He had followed the Runic Magic Circle of the Runic Heartprint, roughly determined the direction of the ancient monument, then selected a Runic Magic Circle that was in the general direction.

He did not think that he would be transported so far, immediately reaching the jungle where the ancient monument was.

Merlin turned back and glanced at the ground. Underneath the thick carpet of fallen leaves, there was a buried Runic Magic Circle. It was through this Runic Magic Circle that Merlin had arrived here.

It was obvious that this Runic Magic Circle had not been used for many years. If Merlin had not utilized the Runic Magic Circle in the Runic Heartprint, he would not have known about this Runic Magic Circle.

Back when the Great Wizard Fidel had founded the Dark Magic Region, the main way of entering and exiting was through Runic Magic Circles. Furthermore, in the countless years to come, the Dark Magic Region had set up an unknown number of Runic Magic Circles outside. Now, no one knew how many Runic Magic Circles were arranged in the beginning.

This was also due to the considerations of that time. If the Dark Magic Region was under attack where the attackers had successfully broken through the protection of the Runic Magic Circle, the Spell Casters of the Dark Magic Region could escape in an instant through the Runic Magic Circles by transporting to all sorts of different locations.

These points were all considered by the Great Wizard Fidel. By relying on the Runic Magic Circles, the Dark Magic Region had held on to its mystery for so many years and had not been under much threat since.

It must be said that when the Great Wizard Fidel founded the Dark Magic Region, he had thought of everything. Thus, even if the influence of the Dark Magic Region had declined by much, it did not receive many threats.

"Hmm? The ancient monument should be somewhere nearby up ahead!"

Merlin examined his surroundings. Just as he was looking for the ancient monument, he suddenly felt the presence of the flame sprite. Only those who had cultivated Fiery Collapse would have such a reaction when they were near the flame sprite.

It was clear that the ancient monument was not far from where Merlin stood! As he thought of this, Merlin shut his eyes lightly, carefully sensing the fluctuations of the flame sprite. Thereafter, he determined the direction and walked forward.

Chapter 401: Returning to the Ancient Monument II

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

In the quiet jungle, a figure in black appeared.

"Looks like this is it!"

Merlin looked around him and could vaguely, feel a sense of familiarity from his memory. This was where the ancient monument had been. However, now there was only flat ground covered all over with a thick carpet of dead leaves. How could there be an ancient monument here?

"Rise!"

Merlin furrowed his brow, following which he waved his hand. Instantly, the fallen leaves were quickly spun by a whirlwind, drifting to the sides. An empty clearing appeared on the ground.

In the clearing, there was a small dirt mound. Merlin's eyes brightened for after this mound appeared, the feeling in his heart became even stronger.

"The ancient monument must be here, only for some unknown reason it had sunk in, leaving only a small part above the ground. If I hadn't come here before, it wouldn't have been easy to find."

Merlin mumbled to himself. He had already discerned that this small dirt mound was where the ancient monument had been, only for some reason, it had gradually sunk underground and was covered by the fallen leaves.

Back then, there had been a passage in the ancient monument, but now even the passage had been buried. Nonetheless, this did not faze Merlin.

( NovelFull ) "Open up!"

Merlin roared out in a low voice. His figure leaped forward in an instant, becoming a black flash as the energy in his entire body exploded furiously.

"Rumble."

The loud sound reverberated in the jungle. Merlin was currently using the pure strength of his body. He was already very strong. In one strike, the loose soil immediately collapsed inward and revealed a deep-reaching passage which headed downward.

"So, there's a passage!"

A smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. In the past, he had entered through the passage. Now, he had merely gauged the vicinity of the passage to directly force a way in.

Damp air came from within the deep passage. Although dead leaves and loose dirt covered the passage, there was still moisture which seeped inside.

Merlin entered the passage and felt a cool, gloomy force. He knew that there were patterned spiders and other guardian monsters in the ancient monument but with his current abilities, he should be able to easily deal with even the strongest guardian monsters.

"Squeak squeak."

Indeed, in a short moment, Merlin heard a strange noise up ahead, following which patterned spiders appeared in the passage one after another, blocking Merlin's path.

These patterned spiders had incomparably vibrant colors. Each of them had a large frame. Upon seeing Merlin, a blood-red look flashed in their eyes, and they appeared overjoyed.

In their eyes, Merlin was a delicious feast!

"Hmph!"

Merlin snorted coldly. A raging layer of flames immediately flared up around him. Wherever the Fourth-level spell Incinerating Fire went, the patterned spiders had no way of withstanding it, each being burnt to ashes.

Perhaps to the Merlin of the past, these patterned spiders were formidable, but to the current Merlin, they were barely worth a mention. Wherever he passed by, the patterned spiders were reduced to ashes.

"How weak!"

Soon enough, the patterned spiders were all burned to ashes. Merlin continued forward, and he quickly reached a flame-shaped statue.

This flame-shaped statue was life-like and detailed especially when Merlin arrived near it. It began to twist gradually, and a beam of firelight shot out wildly from the statue.

This firelight rapidly took shape, and it was the flame sprite that he had met back then in the ancient monument!

The flame sprite was surrounded by a furious burning blaze. As it saw Merlin, a stunned expression crossed its face. Following that, the flame sprite carefully sized Merlin up, and asked in a bewildered and uncertain voice, "I remember you. Back then in this ancient monument, you're Wizard Merlin who cultivated Fiery Collapse! You've already become a Fourth-level Spell Caster?"

The flame sprite found it hard to believe. How long was Merlin gone? At most, it had been a mere few years' time, and back then, Merlin was only a First-level Spell Caster.

Merlin shook his head lightly. "I'm still not yet a Fourth-level Spell Caster, only I've managed to construct a Fourth-level Fire-type spell."

"You've constructed a Fourth-level Fire-type spell?"

The flame sprite's eyes brightened as fluctuations emerged around it. Anyone could clearly see that it was ecstatic.

"Which is to say, you've come here now to cultivate the second form of Fiery Collapse?"

"That's right. I'm here to cultivate the second form of Fiery Collapse. The treasures that enable me to do so can only be found here in the ancient monument!"

Merlin did not deny this. Once he had cultivated the second form of Fiery Collapse, it would be a great blessing to the flame sprite as well. This was because once Fiery Collapse had reached the second form, the binding of the entire ancient monument would gradually vanish, ultimately allowing the flame sprite to achieve freedom.

This was the opportunity that the flame sprite had dreamed of!

Perhaps because the flame sprite was overjoyed, it flitted around constantly, and a scorching force could vaguely be felt in the air.

"Yes, yes, yes! The day is finally here. I've waited such a long time, and now I have a chance to escape at last. Wizard Merlin, I'll bring you to the obstacle. Only after clearing that obstacle can you obtain the various treasures within for the cultivation of the second form of Fiery Collapse!"

The flame sprite could wait no longer to bring Merlin to attempt the obstacle.

Merlin nodded. Previously, when he first cultivated Fiery Collapse, he had to go through an obstacle as well. Naturally, this time, in order to cultivate the second form, he also had to complete an obstacle.

Merlin did not know much about this ancient monument. He merely knew that it was left behind by a great Spell Caster named Wizard Dowland. According to Merlin's conjecture, Wizard Dowland should also be a Great Wizard!

Only a Great Wizard would have the ability to leave behind such a massive ancient monument and set up various spells and techniques within which lasted even after a thousand years. Most Spell Casters would have no way of achieving this.

The flame sprite quickly brought Merlin through many passages until they came before a stone room. Inside the stone room, there was a gray monster which resembled a hedgehog currently in a deep slumber.

"Snap."

The hedgehog-like monster seemed to have sensed the arrival of Merlin and the Flame Sprite and gradually woke up.

"Hmm? A puppet?"

Seeing this hedgehog-like monster, Merlin could feel its lifeless force as well as traces of severe energy. Only those puppets would emit such a force.

This hedgehog monster before him was a powerful puppet!

"Buzz."

Without warning, the eyes of the hedgehog puppet flashed with a red glow as if it had come alive. Thereafter, it's cold eyes flicked open and fixed upon Merlin!