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Chapter 426: Greed

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

At this point of time, Paolo was already unstoppable. With a single swipe, it grabbed and froze the Frost Lord. They were both snow sprites and thus should have the same level of control of Ice Elements. However, for some unfathomable reason, Paolo seemed to be more powerful in its control of Ice Elements than the Frost Lord.

Therefore, Paolo was able to completely suppress the Frost Lord while the latter was not even able to control a single Ice Element.

Once Paolo devoured the Frost Lord, there were two possibilities. If Paolo failed, it would not be a problem. On the other hand, if Paolo succeeded, it could potentially become a powerful Eight-level Wizard. Moreover, it would become one of the top Eighth-level Wizards who were so powerful that they were acknowledged even during the Spell Casters' most glorious era.

Facing such a powerful Spell Caster, both Merlin and Wizard Blackmurk dared not think that they would be able to emerge triumphant. On the contrary, it might be difficult for them to even escape, so they would be in great danger.

"Shit, we mustn't allow him to devour the Frost Lord!"

Wizard Blackmurk's expression paled, and controlled his Alchemy Creature to rush forward. Nevertheless, despite the speed possessed by the Alchemy Creature, it would not arrive in time to stop Paolo from devouring the Frost Lord!

Paolo's big mouth was stretched open like a blood-filled basin and began to sink its teeth into the Frost Lord. In that brutal face, there was no trace whatsoever of the previously kind-looking handsome man.

"Glacier Country, descend!"

Right at this moment, Merlin acted. The spell he chose to use was the newly-cultivated Glacier Country, a special Pandora Demon Ability which could completely suppress and bind everything within it. When Glacier Country descended, there was a translucent light ray flashing continuously.

Wisps of cold air began to condense rapidly, and despite Paolo stretching his big mouth a little wider, he was unable to swallow the Frost Lord. In other words, his motions became incomparably slow.

This was the exact purpose of Glacier Country as everything would be suppressed and every ability would be bound. Although Paolo had unparalleled control over Ice Elements, he was not able to control Ice Elements within Glacier Country.

"Boom!"

Merlin wielded Glacier Country to slow down Paolo's devouring progress, and then with a flick of his finger, raging flames began to burn and engulf Paolo.

Despite the thick layers of ice crystals protecting Paolo, he was unable to resist the two-pronged attack from Merlin's Glacier Country and Incinerating Fire.

Since Merlin succeeded in mastering Glacier Country, he could now rely on its powers to suppress and bind his opponents while he used other attacking spells to complement his strategy. Basically, he no longer had any problems dealing with opponents below the Seventh-level because very few Wizards under the Seventh-level would be able to pose a threat to him.

Even Paolo, a snow sprite who was naturally gifted with unparalleled control over Ice Elements, was no longer a worthy opponent once Merlin wielded Glacier Country.

While Merlin's raging flames would not inflict any harm on Paolo within a short period of time, Paolo would not be able to withstand it longer.

"What power is that?"

Feeling anxious, Paolo asked. Presently, the Frost Lord had recovered its free will once again but was regarding Merlin with certain disbelief. The Frost Lord could not believe that Merlin was able to defeat Paolo just by himself.

"What power it is doesn't matter. What's important here is that you've lost!"

"Crunch!"

Just as Merlin finished speaking, the ice crystals on Paolo's body melted completely, and the raging flames began to burn its body. Paolo's life force became weaker and weaker like it would soon disappear.

"Wizard Merlin, that's enough!"

The Frost Lord waved its hand and stopped Merlin from releasing more flames. A cold draft extinguished Merlin's flames. Paolo's body had gone limp; he was a hair's breadth away from death.

At this moment, the female Wizard suddenly rushed forward to Paolo's side. With a pleading look, she said to Merlin, "Sir Wizard, please let my Brother go. He's not a bad guy and had never harmed anyone. Please let him go…"

Merlin's expression did not change at all. He could already see Paolo's true nature when he chose to hide. Although Paolo was obviously much stronger than the Frost Lord, it never intended to devour the Frost Lord, which spoke volumes of his character.

The Frost Lord carefully approached Paolo. This was the best opportunity for the Frost Lord to devour Paolo.

Paolo looked at the female Wizard with a smile on his lips. He whispered, "It's too bad I didn't have the chance to bring you to see the outside world but you know what? There's nothing beautiful about the outside world, unlike this idyllic place…"

The female Wizard gazed at Merlin and the others with rage and hatred.

Suddenly, Merlin felt as if he had become the anti-peace anarchist. Nevertheless, the Spell Caster universe would never be able to accept such a peace-loving person like Paolo, snow sprite or not…

"Crack…"

With a wave of the Frost Lord's hand, the female Wizard was frozen in place. Then, it opened its mouth wide, and without a trace of hesitation, swallowed Paolo's entire body.

A violent gust of Ice Elements began to gather wildly around the Frost Lord, causing a terrifying storm to rage around them. Even the thick layers of ice appeared to be breaking apart.

The condition of the Frost Lord after devouring Paolo was extremely unstable. An ominous aura seemed to be brewing in the air. Simply because the Frost Lord managed to devour Paolo did not mean that its transformation would be successful.

There was another possibility, which was a failure! Snow sprites who failed to devour their companions would completely disappear and die.

"The journey of the snow sprites is much harder than the Spell Casters'!"

Merlin mumbled under his breath. In the Frost Lord's kingdom, Merlin had witnessed many snow sprites devouring each other but none of them had succeeded. Even at the Frost Lord's level, it still had to rely on devouring another to grow stronger.

Moreover, even after devouring, its fate was still unknown!

The journey of Spell Casters was already filled with all kinds of danger, but compared to the snow sprites, they were considered much more fortunate.

"Hehe. Isn't the journey of Spell Casters also filled with danger? Now, I don't know whether I should call you Dark Fire Incarnate or Wizard Merlin?"

Beside Merlin, Wizard Blackmurk spoke with a strange expression on his face, his gaze unwavering from Merlin.

Merlin ignored Wizard Blackmurk but kept his eyes vigilant on the latter's movements, especially the Alchemy Creature. This Alchemy Creature had left a deep impression on Merlin when it fought against Paolo.

Truly, to deal with this Alchemy Creature was no easy feat for any average Spell Caster. It was very resilient and almost half of Wizard Blackmurk's abilities rested entirely on this Alchemy Creature.

"Why? Does Wizard Blackmurk have a word of advice for me?"

Merlin knew that the Wizard Blackmurk before him was extremely dangerous, so he did not dare lower his guard. His entire body was tensed and ready to counter any sudden attacks from his opponents.

Wizard Blackmurk stood behind the Alchemy Creature, and his eyes squinted slightly. In a sinister tone, he said, "Rumors have it that the Dark Fire Incarnate obtained the second volume of the Neverending Book. It's very simple. I'm interested in the second volume of the Neverending Book, so I would like to read it. What do you say, Dark Fire Incarnate?"

"You want the second volume of the Neverending Book?"

Merlin's blood ran cold. He did not expect that after he had demonstrated such powerful abilities, it still did not deter Wizard Blackmurk's greedy heart.

"Go!"

A murderous glint flashed across Wizard Blackmurk's eyes, and with the pointing of a finger, the Alchemy Creature in front of him began to sprint toward Merlin at full speed. Everywhere it stepped left a foul stench, and the venom-filled air was also rushing toward Merlin.

Merlin dared not come into contact with this black venomous substance, so he wielded Flash Wind to retreat backward. Then, he cast a wall of fire in front of himself so that any venom that passed through the wall would be burned to ashes.

"Hehe, respectable Dark Fire Incarnate, why are you running away?"

Wizard Blackmurk sneered. He was not the least afraid of Merlin's flames, so he made the Alchemy Monster continue to chase after Merlin, which turned Merlin's face even gloomier than before.

Subsequently, Merlin decided not to retreat anymore but to face Wizard Blackmurk's Alchemy Creature head-on.

"Glacier Country!"

Merlin wielded Glacier Country. In an instant, it descended, along with its all-suppressing, all-binding powers. The all-encompassing power made the Alchemy Creature's movements become extraordinarily slow, and its venom turned useless when met with Glacier Country.

Once any venom was spilled, it was immediately frozen into ice crystals, so it could no longer bring any harm to Merlin.

"Hehe, my baby isn't so easily suppressed!"

Wizard Blackmurk snickered, seemingly unalarmed that his Alchemy Creature had been bound by Glacier Country. A few crimson rays burst forth from his palm, and violently pierced into the Alchemy Creature's body.

"Roar…"

The Alchemy Monster released a massive aura filled with incomparable viciousness, and its body seemed to be surrounded by a thin layer of blood mist. The originally three-meter-tall creature grew even taller and turned into a horrifying monster with long black fur and harsh snorting noises, just like a wild beast.

This was Wizard Blackmurk's real trump card and his true strategy. Facing Paolo earlier, Wizard Blackmurk did not wield his strongest power. This was the true strategy that Wizard Blackmurk relied upon to defeat the powerful Eighth-level Wizards.

After the Alchemy Creature changed its form, both its speed and strength increased greatly. Moreover, the layer of blood mist on his body seemed to possess strong recovery abilities. While the Alchemy Creature was being suppressed by Glacier Country, Merlin had managed to score some attacks against the Alchemy Creature. However, under the effects of the blood mist, it recovered quickly as good as new.

In addition, the Alchemy Creature was roaring as it continued to rush toward Merlin, albeit at a slower speed. If this was the Alchemy Creature's speed under the suppression of Glacier Country, how much faster would its actual speed be without any suppressing or binding powers?

Looking at the Alchemy Creature drawing closer, Merlin's gaze also flashed steel.

"It's just an Alchemy Creature, why can't it be killed?"

Thus, Merlin extended his right hand and revealed his palm. Inside, a blood-red demonic eye was blinking gently, emitting a faint crimson glow. It was a peculiar sight!

Chapter 427: Where Did They Come From?

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

"Darkness Eye, dispel!"

Darkness Eye in Merlin's palm immediately emitted a crimson light, which quickly shot out and engulfed the Alchemy Creature.

At the same time, a huge ghostly face appeared above Merlin's head, letting out a dim, sinister laugh. The frantic, onrushing momentum of the Alchemy Creature came to an abrupt halt. It seemed to have suffered a great blow and began trembling like a leaf.

Moreover, the skin all over its body began to ulcerate, and a great force seemed to tear it apart.

The third form of Darkness Eye was extremely frightening, especially in addition to the suppression of Glacier Country. It was a simultaneous attack from two special Pandora Demon Abilities, and not even Kleis would have been able to withstand it!

Upon seeing the gigantic ghostly face above Merlin's head, Wizard Blackmurk's face changed slightly as he growled, "The legendary accursed power, Darkness Eye?"

Wizard Blackmurk knew of Darkness Eye as well. It was a special Pandora Demon Ability, a formidable ability created by the Great Legend of Darkness, Wizard Oflas, who possessed unfathomable powers. He did not expect that Merlin would possess Darkness Eye.

Wizard Blackmurk was overjoyed at this unexpected discovery. In truth, he was named Blackmurk because he was a Darkness Wizard. However, since his Alchemy Creature was too powerful, many Spell Casters had forgotten that he used to be a fearsome Darkness Wizard.

With his Alchemy Creature around, Wizard Blackmurk rarely used Darkness-type spells in front of anyone. He would be able to cultivate Darkness Eye as well!

"Haha, Darkness Eye, the fabled Darkness Eye! Not only do you have the Neverending Book but you also have Darkness Eye as well. Hand them both over for you won't be able to escape!"

Wizard Blackmurk seemed untroubled in the slightest that Merlin possessed Darkness Eye. Seeing that his Alchemy Creature was no match for it, he did not panic but instead unleashed a blood-red mist which rapidly submerged the Alchemy Creature.

"Roar…"

The Alchemy Creature gave another majestic roar and stubbornly endured the strength of Darkness Eye. It rushed toward Merlin once again. With every step it took, the skin upon its body was further torn apart. This was the power of Darkness Eye.

Carmine blood flowed out from the splits in the Alchemy Creature's skin, which was a ghastly sight.

However, the injuries on the Alchemy Creature were healed soon enough. The layer of blood mist surrounding it had incredible regenerative powers. As long as the Alchemy Creature was not dealt with a single, fatal blow, small injuries like these were of no concern to it. This was a nearly indestructible creature!

"Incinerating Fire!"

The huge ghostly face above Merlin's head seemed to become more distinct as it howled noiselessly. The third form of Darkness Eye was unable to cause much harm to the Alchemy Creature.

Any Spell Caster at the Seventh-level would have no way of withstanding the third form of Darkness Eye. Nonetheless, the Alchemy Creature was not a Spell Caster but an indestructible monster with terrifying regenerative abilities. There was no end to its extraordinary strength, and it was fast too. Without the suppression of Glacier Country, Merlin would have been in grave danger.

Still, despite the suppression of Glacier Country, and even with Darkness Eye along with Incinerating Fire which he had just cast, his opponent's Alchemy Creature was still not dead, rushing ferociously toward Merlin.

As he watched this bulldozer-like, colossal mass rushing at him furiously, a fiery viciousness flared up in Merlin. It was not that he was incapable of handling this Alchemy Creature or that he did not have the ability to kill Wizard Blackmurk. Once he unleashed that kind of strength, he himself would be in danger. It was not quite worth the price.

Darkness Eye in his palm seemed to be swept up in wrath as well. Within Darkness Eye, a vague force was vehemently pounding as if it wanted to break the seal. This was the fourth form of Darkness Eye which had been sealed by Wizard Leo before his death.

This was Merlin's greatest power. Once he released the fourth form of Darkness Eye, neither the Alchemy Creature before his eyes or Wizard Blackmurk would be a match for him. He would be able to dispose of them with no difficulty.

Nevertheless, this was a double-edged sword. Merlin knew very well that since he currently did not have the ability to control the fourth form of Darkness Eye, there was a chance that it would instantly swallow him up.

Perhaps Merlin could momentarily suppress the fourth form of Darkness Eye with the strength of the Maxim, but there was not much power left in there. If he continued using it to suppress the fourth form of Darkness Eye which could cause exhaustion, Merlin would be at risk as well.

He had witnessed Wizard Leo's deathbed condition. Even Wizard Leo, having wielded Darkness Eye for so long, was unable to hold off the backlash of the fourth form of Darkness Eye. How could Merlin possibly do it?

Therefore, if it was not a last resort, and if the situation was not thoroughly desperate, Merlin would not dare to release the fourth form of Darkness Eye.

"Retreat!"

Merlin did not hesitate in the slightest. At this point, even if he was unwilling to retreat, he had no choice. Faced with a seemingly indestructible Alchemy Creature which clearly possessed the strength of the Seventh-level, and being unable to harm it, Merlin still could not release the seal of the fourth form of Darkness Eye. He could only withdraw for now.

"Swish."

Merlin possessed Flash Wind which had unparalleled speed. Thus, in one flash, he transformed into a rainbow beam, shooting off into the distance. He was rather inconspicuous in the white expanse of Subzero Snowfield.

"He's escaped?"

Wizard Blackmurk was briefly taken aback but he reacted quickly. He immediately led his Alchemy Creature with a cold smile on his face. Wind Elemental fluctuations emerged around him, and he instantly gave chase.

At the moment, there were only three of them left – the Frost Lord who had just swallowed Paolo, Wizard Ernie, and Wizard Watson. The Frost Lord was currently in an unstable state. No one knew whether it would be successful in swallowing Paolo, for it needed a period of time to merge.

However, regardless of its success, the Frost Lord's contract with Merlin and Wizard Blackmurk had ended, and there was no connection left between them.

As for Wizards Ernie and Watson, they exchanged a glance and seemed to be at a loss.

Naturally, they had their own residences in Subzero Snowfield but they were now Merlin's slave, and could only follow behind Merlin. However, now that Merlin had fled, they did not know whether to chase after him.

Just as both of them were deliberating, a message flashed across their minds, sent by Merlin through the contract paper.

"Both of you, follow behind me but don't alert Blackmurk. After I've shaken him off, I'll join you!"

Upon receiving Merlin's message, Ernie and Watson could only fly toward Merlin powerlessly.

…

In the pure white expanse of the snow plain, three Spell Casters dressed in long, blue Wizard robes were cautiously approaching a small hill. At their lead was a middle-aged man with fine scars on his face.

"Phew…"

The middle-aged man let out a long sigh. He squinted slightly at the small hill before him and retrieved a map from his ring. Following that, he said while feeling moved, "Found it, I've finally found it! This is where the ancient monument is. I've searched for it for over thirty years in Subzero Snowfield, and I've finally found it today, haha!"

"Gustin, you're sure the ancient monument is here?"

Behind the middle-aged man, a Spell Caster with a full beard asked doubtfully.

"Hehe, look at the map. This is really where the ancient monument is. I got this map more than thirty years ago, and have dreamed of finding this ancient monument every day to obtain the treasure within. Haha, I shall become a lord of a region in Subzero Snowfield. The endless resources are enough for me to become a great Spell Caster! Rest assured for if you follow me, you'll surely become a formidable Spell Caster as well!"

These few Spell Casters were here to search for a fabled ancient monument. They had relied on that old map in Gustin's hand.

Gustin had received this ancient map over thirty years ago. At that time, he was still an Entrance-level Spell Caster and did not have the abilities to search for the ancient monument. Now, he had become a Third-level Spell Caster, and could finally look for it.

Therefore, with two of his best friends, he began on a journey to locate the ancient monument. After much trials and tribulations, they had come across the general vicinity where the ancient monument was, in this wasteland.

"Gustin, since we've found the ancient monument, let's go in quickly. Let's see if the path stated on the map is real or not?"

The other two Spell Casters were still half-doubtful even now. In Subzero Snowfield, maps of ancient monuments, like the one in Gustin's hand, were a dime a dozen. There was a constant supply of these maps, most of which carelessly manufactured by Spell Casters with ulterior motives in order to swindle some elemental crystal stones.

If Gustin had not been so persistent, they would not have been willing to go on this crazy trip with him.

Now that they had finally found the place where the ancient monument was on the map, they wanted Gustin to have no more illusions about this. Thus, they urged Gustin to follow the method on the map to access the ancient monument.

Gustin's heart burned fervently. He took a few steps forward and came to the place where the ancient monument was marked on the map. He began to mutter as fluctuations of Ice Element gradually materialized around him.

"Open up, Ecuador's Door!"

Gustin's face flushed red due to his excitement. As soon as he spoke, the group of three directed their gazes at the plain of white snow before them.

"Rumble."

Soon enough, the entire snowfield began to quake, and a terrifying force seemed to awaken beneath the thick blanket of snow. The fallen snow began to rise to a peak. A gigantic, ancient castle rose from the depths in the initially vast and empty snowfield.

At the only entrance of the castle, there was a mysterious large door covered completely in runes. On the door, the word "Ecuador" was written in the ancient Molta language.

"It's the secret treasure of Ecuador, haha, it really is the secret treasure of Ecuador. Are you guys seeing this? I, Gustin, have finally found Ecuador's secret treasure!"

Gustin was incomparably excited. He pointed at the ancient castle which had appeared out of thin air, and babbled incoherently, "Ecuador's secret treasure was left behind by a great Spell Caster. There are powerful guardian puppets within, but these have been fossilized. As long as we don't touch them, we won't trigger them. So, we're able to enter the depths of the castle and obtain the secret treasure of Ecuador!"

Gustin pointed at the lofty stone statues deep within the ancient castle. These statues were scary guardian puppets, but they have been fossilized by a mysterious spell. As long as the Spell Casters did not touch them, they would not be activated, and the Spell Casters would be safe.

These details were all the same as what was recorded on the map. Seeing the truth before their eyes, Gustin's two companions could not deny that Gustin was right. There really was Ecuador's fabled secret treasure.

Now, they had discovered Ecuador's secret treasure. Upon thinking about the various benefits that they were about to receive, their hearts surged with an excitement that was beyond words.

"Come on, let's go in. Remember, no matter what, don't touch those stone statues!"

Gustin carefully warned them as he did before. However, just as they got ready to step into the ancient castle, a black cloud suddenly appeared in the distant sky, blustering mightily as it flew toward where they stood.

Behind the black cloud, there was a vague outline of a terrifying human figure that was burly and sinister, who extended one large hand and hit the cloud greatly. The resulting Elemental fluctuations were shocking, to say the least, causing them a great amount of alarm.

"Bang!"

After a loud crash, the black cloud dispersed, and a figure dropped in a straight line toward the ground, right in the direction where Gustin and the rest stood.

"No, no, no… Oh my god, please don't touch the stone statue at all cost…"

Gustin had begun to yell in terror. The map stated that the guardian puppets of Ecuador possessed frightening powers. Once they were awakened, they would kill all intruders.

That figure who had been smacked down was falling toward those stone statues.

"Boom!"

A massive crash rang out as the figure dropped pathetically to the ground, immediately sending those statues flying. The entire snowfield seemed to quake all at once.

"Swish."

The figure who had dropped to the ground did not seem to be hurt, leaping up suddenly. It was a young Wizard dressed in a black robe but his eyes had abnormally unfathomable depths. At the moment, his face was incomparably icy and filled with rage.

"Blackmurk, do you really think I won't dare to kill you?"

The black-robed young Wizard extended one fair palm. In his palm was a blood-red eye which blinked incessantly, producing an eerie sight.

At the same time, an enormous, hazy, ghostly face gradually materialized behind the young Wizard. The hazy ghostly face grew more solid and clear, accompanied by bursts of sinister laughter which echoed all around.

"We're done for. The legendary unrivaled guardian puppets of Ecuador will wake up, and we'll all die!"

Gustin was trembling all over. He looked at the stone statues which had been knocked all over the place, and his face turned purple. He was gripped by dread. The map had clearly stated that once Ecuador's guardian puppets were awakened, no one would be able to defend themselves against the merciless and powerful guardians. All intruders would be killed.

Now that the stone statues were sent flying by the crash, how could they not have been touched?

Gustin appeared to be brimming with resentment as he glared at that fearsome young Wizard. The enormous ghostly face above the young Wizard's head seemed to indicate that it would not be wise to provoke him.

It was just that Gustin had no idea – where did these people come from?

Chapter 428: The Guardian Puppets Awakened

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

High up in the clouds, a gigantic Alchemy Creature which was pitch black from head to toe softly landed on the ground. Standing behind the Alchemy Creature was Wizard Blackmurk, whose cold and pacifying gaze fixed onto Merlin as he laughed mirthlessly. "Wizard Merlin, after fleeing for so long, surely you understand that you have no way to escape? Hand over Darkness Eye and the Neverending Book!"

These two Wizards were Merlin and Wizard Blackmurk. Merlin had cast Flash Wind, and his speed was incredible. However, he did not expect that Wizard Blackmurk was not slow as well, and he seemed to possess a special Speed casting tool.

By relying on the casting tool, Wizard Blackmurk was merely marginally slower than Merlin and was able to catch up in the end. Throughout this period, not even Merlin knew how long he had been fleeing. He did not even know where he was going and flew aimlessly until he reached this place.

Even since Merlin had obtained Darkness Eye, he had never fled so desperately as he had done now, hunted down by someone. Now it looked as if he could not shake off Wizard Blackmurk. Even if he would pay a certain price for releasing the seal on the fourth form of Darkness Eye, he did not care about that now.

"Cackle cackle."

The giant ghostly face above Merlin's head suddenly became clear and distinct as it unleashed bursts of sinister, petrifying laughter. The crimson eye in Merlin's palm began to glow with an eerie, blood-red light, shrouding half the sky, and lighting it up in blood red.

The ghostly face above Merlin's head became clearer and clearer, and one could see faintly that it was a crimson apparition with disheveled hair. Although its outline was clear, its features were still hazy, which was to say that it was shifting constantly as the appearance of the ghostly face was transforming every second.

If one looked closely, one would see that these faces belonged to those who died due to Darkness Eye. Among them was Wizard Leo's face.

Merlin had now descended into an extraordinary state. He felt a power – a formidable power he had not felt in a long time. The strength of this power made him feel as if he could deal with any threat.

Merlin had experienced the power of a Legend for a brief time when he controlled the Ship of Nikola. Only then had he felt so powerful. Of course, when he had used the Flame Maxim to control the Ship of Nikola, his capability far surpassed his current state, but that feeling of immense power was similar.

Besides this feeling of power, there was also a sort of brutality in him that wanted to wipe out everyone he saw. This was the negative energy that accompanied the unleash of the fourth form of Darkness Eye. Merlin was currently incapable of suppressing it effectively and could only let it out.

"Your Alchemy Creature is unafraid of dying?"

A peculiar smirk appeared over Merlin's lips. He gradually rose into the air, after which he pointed at the Alchemy Creature in the distance.

"Bam!"

At the start, the tenacious Alchemy Creature could not be killed no matter what. Merlin's Incinerating Fire in addition to the force of Glacier Country was unable to deal with the Alchemy Creature. However, after Merlin pointed, it now grimaced in pain.

The huge ghostly face above Merlin's head was transforming at an increasing speed, followed by bursts of menacing laughter. A tremendous force seemed to tear the Alchemy Creature apart.

"Rip."

The Alchemy Creature was viciously torn into two by an unseen force yet Merlin still felt that there was not enough bloodshed. He pulled furiously with both hands, and the imposing bulk of the Alchemy Creature was immediately ripped into shreds. The spray of blood splattered all over the ground, emitting a pungent, horrid smell.

"No, no, how could this be?"

Seeing that the Alchemy Creature was easily killed without any resistance by Merlin's hands, Wizard Blackmurk was struck by momentary disbelief. He had transfigured the Alchemy Creature himself, so naturally, he knew that without the peak of the Eighth-level strength, one would be incapable of causing his Alchemy Creature any harm.

However, his Alchemy Creature was ripped apart alive by Merlin in a cruel and bloodthirsty manner. It was unable to put up any resistance at all.

Even though he was astounded to his core, Wizard Blackmurk reacted very quickly. Fluctuations of Wind Element appeared over his body, following which he pointed and a wild gust of gale roused a windstorm. The storm rumbled toward Merlin while he quickly escaped at the back.

"Trying to escape?"

The unfathomable depths of Merlin's eyes turned crimson. He raised his palm, with the eerie blood-red eye pointed in Wizard Blackmurk's direction. Then he commanded softly, "Control! Deprive!"

"Hoo…."

The gale vanished and the Wind Elements quietened down. Wizard Blackmurk suddenly felt as if he could no longer mobilize a single shred of Magic Power. No Element would comply with his command.

"The power of control is so formidable!"

Merlin was currently drunk on the power of the fourth form of Darkness Eye. He was able to control the power of Elements, and Elements themselves in addition to stripping the power of Elements too.

Therefore, even Eighth-level Spell Casters, when faced with the fourth form of Darkness Eye, would have no way of controlling the Elements. Back then, Wizard Leo had relied on the fourth form of Darkness Eye to exterminate two Eighth-level Wizards.

At last, Merlin now tasted the greatness of the fourth form of Darkness Eye for himself – the power to control Elements! Under the "control" power of the fourth form, Wizard Blackmurk could not put up the slightest bit of resistance. He was now a prisoner of Merlin's for Merlin to deal with as he wished.

"Fire!"

Merlin's expression was icy as his body brimmed with a murderous force. He pointed an effortless finger at Wizard Blackmurk. Instantly, Wizard Blackmurk's body was caught in raging flames. In the midst of frantic, pitiful wails, the troublesome Wizard Blackmurk of Subzero Snowfield was reduced to ashes just like that.

However, the tyranny in Merlin's heart had not yet faded. He directed his furious gaze at the three strangers on the ground.

Gustin and the rest watched with their mouths agape, trembling all over as they fixed their eyes upon Merlin in mid-air. The fearsome battle between Merlin and Wizard Blackmurk had far surpassed their framework of understanding.

Moreover, now that Merlin had disposed of Wizard Blackmurk through merciless methods, his attention had shifted to them. Naturally, Gustin and the rest were filled with dread.

"Screech screech screech…"

Suddenly, a peculiar, disturbing sound came into their ears. It was abnormally ear-piercing in the vast snowfield.

Gustin saw that the stone statues, lying about in disorder, had begun to vibrate. He suddenly recalled the warning of Ecuador's secret treasure. Once someone touched those stone statues, the fossilized guardian puppets would be awakened.

At that point, the unrivaled guardian puppets would wipe out all intruders. Evidently, the transformation of the stone statues had occurred because those terrifying guardian puppets were awakening.

"Oh no, the guardian puppets are waking up. We're all going to die!"

Gustin bit his lip furiously. He was more afraid of the legendary guardian puppets than he was of Merlin. People were usually more fearful of the unknown, and Spell Casters were no exception.

Those stone statues were an unknown entity. No one knew how terrifying the guardian puppets would be after the stone statues had been transformed.

"Swoosh."

Merlin's attention was attracted to the peculiar sounds coming from the stone statues. However, his consciousness was slightly sober now. He had been affected by the intense negative emotions and had descended into a brief frenzy.

"Oh no, the fourth form of Darkness Eye had produced a huge amount of negative emotions. I have no way of suppressing it effectively, and will face its backlash soon!"

Merlin seemed able to perceive the glee of Darkness Eye. He had no wish to become a second Leo, dying from the backlash of Darkness Eye. Although he had broken the seal on the fourth form under inescapable circumstances, things were not at their worst yet.

"Flame Maxim, suppress!"

Merlin mobilized and gathered all his Mind Power. At the moment, he had no way of activating the Ice Maxim. Only the Flame Maxim, under the full force of his Mind Power, could be shifted slightly in his Awareness.

Fortunately, the Flame Maxim seemed to have made Merlin's Awareness its "territory". The invasion of Darkness Eye promptly induced the suppression of the Flame Maxim.

The tremendous power of the Maxim immediately suppressed the backlash force of the fourth form of Darkness Eye. In that instant, the large, ghostly face above Merlin's head was still there but it seemed to let out a series of miserable shrieks.

Merlin was still able to wield the power of the fourth form of Darkness Eye but now he could control it completely. It was just that he would have to consume the power of the Maxim at all times. This was the price he had to pay for unleashing the fourth form of Darkness Eye.

"Screech screech."

The stone statues were still making that strange noise. Merlin stared at them. Only now did he carefully observe his surroundings. He noticed that this mysterious ancient castle had something mystical about it as if an enigmatic force was hidden within.

"Boom!"

The statues exploded and rock fragments flew everywhere. From within the shattered stone, a few large and imposing puppets, each with two horns, appeared.

"Hahahaha, freedom at last. Master had sealed us for thousands of years. Today, some fools have finally touched us, setting us free!"

These stone statues all looked the same, and there were many of them. The only different one was a statue in the middle, which was dark red all over. It looked extremely agile, and the guardian puppets which emerged from the statues all gathered by the side of this dark red puppet.

"Puppet?"

Merlin shot a baffled look at these stone puppets. He recalled some ancient books he had seen in the Dark Magic Region. Some of which mentioned that during the Spell Casters' most glorious era, when alchemy was developed to its pinnacle, many techniques of transfiguring puppets were discovered, using all sorts of materials.

Among these, one could use the most common materials to transfigure powerful puppets. For instance, rock, wood, and so on, could be turned into powerful puppets in the hands of a Great Alchemist.

These puppets were built completely from stone and were clearly puppets described in the ancient books. However, that sort of alchemy technique was lost to the ages.

"We're goners. The unrivaled Ecuador's guardian puppets have awakened. We'll all be killed by them!"

Gustin could only mumble this over and over, his eyes filled with despair as he looked at the stone guardian puppets.

"Not bad, not bad. There's still someone who knows of our power. We're the great guardian puppets of Ecuador. All of you intruders must die!"

The dark red stone puppet let out a sharp hiss, following which it directed the army of stone puppets to press down Merlin like a raging flood. The ensuing tremor was not a small one for it seemed to make the vast snowfield quake. The thick blanket of snow melted, revealing the black floor beneath.

"The unrivaled guardian puppets of Ecuador?"

An odd expression crossed Merlin's face. As far as he could tell, there were many of these guardian puppets indeed, but they were far too weak…

"Glacier Country, descend!"

A burst of light flashed, and an icy chill engulfed the entire ancient castle. The translucent Glacier Country descended in an instant.

Chapter 429: Dimension

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

"Crack crack."

Bursts of freezing noises sounded. The white sweep of frost was easily frozen in place where the guardian puppets had been transformed from stone statues. Moreover, as Merlin's Glacier Country was in its third form, its might was comparable to the peak of the Seventh-level. It was an extreme chill. The guardian puppets were merely made from ordinary stones, so when they were frozen by the ice crystals, many guardian puppets were unable to withstand it. Cracks ran over the surface of their bodies, splitting them apart.

"Fire."

Merlin stretched out a palm. In that instant, a colossal palm of pale white flames appeared out of thin air in the midst of the white chill in the sky, then smacked down with a whistling noise.

"Boom."

A tremor made the land and distant hills quake. Merlin's spell was now extremely terrifying. A single gesture of his was similar to those powerful Great Wizards during the Spell Casters' most glorious era, filled with fearsome might.

If this palm had smacked down upon a city, it would have been easily destroyed!

Gustin watched with mouth agape as these so-called "unrivaled" guardian puppets were smashed to smithereens under one strike from Merlin's flame palm, turning into a pile of rubble.

"Hmm, not yet dead?"

Merlin stood in mid-air and saw that among the devastation on the ground, the giant puppet with dark red all over was still intact. However, it was scorched black entirely, and its gaze toward Merlin revealed its utmost fear.

Merlin had no wish to leave behind any of these puppets and prepared to attack once more, killing off the last of them. The dark red guardian puppet seemed to understand Merlin's actions and immediately yelled, "O' mighty Sir Wizard, I'm a puppet transfigured by the Great Legend Ecuador. If you're willing to keep me with you, I'll tell you many secrets of my previous master, the Legend Ecuador. What's more, Sir Wizard, if you happen to leave the Glorious Land, I know of a vast dimension that the Legend Ecuador had once occupied. You may enter that dimension and obtain all that the Legend Ecuador had left behind!"

Upon hearing what the dark red puppet said, Merlin was somewhat stupefied.

Perhaps Gustin and the rest beside him were not clear about the meaning of the dark red puppet's words, but Merlin had obtained the Flame Maxim of the Legend Nikola and knew much about the Spell Casters from the past era of the Molta Empire.

The Glorious Land that the dark red puppet spoke of referred to the entire vast continent. During the era of the Molta Empire, it was the land where Spell Casters peaked in their glory. Powerful Spell Casters, under the leadership of Legendary Wizards, exiled the gods, traveled beyond the Molta Empire, and stepped into other dimensions. Furthermore, they began to conquer one dimension after another, leading to the era of the Spell Casters' unmatched glory.

The Legend Ecuador must be a Legendary Wizard from the Spell Casters' most glorious era who had even occupied a vast dimension.

"Swish."

Merlin gradually landed and began his queries with the dark red puppet. He had many questions regarding the Spell Casters' most glorious era and might as well obtain some answers from this puppet.

"This ancient castle was left behind by Wizard Ecuador?"

Merlin raised his head and eyed the ancient castle as he spoke.

"That's right. This ancient castle was a place where Master used to live but after he occupied the Ecuador Dimension, he stayed there. He sealed the ancient castle and never came back."

The dark red puppet rolled its eyeballs, and it appeared very "intelligent" at one glance. At this point, it would answer in detail whatever questions Merlin posed, and dared not conceal any information.

Suddenly, Merlin turned around and stared at the three Spell Casters beside him. Up until now, Merlin had been gradually figuring out the entire story. These three Spell Casters had searched for the "hidden treasure" for many years, yet unexpectedly they had encountered him.

As he looked at them, a murderous intent rose up in Merlin's heart.

"Crack."

With a wave of his hand, the three Spell Casters were frozen instantly, completely losing their chance to survive.

"That's not right!"

Merlin frowned. Normally, he would not kill people senselessly, but now he seemed to have no feelings regarding slaughtering them.

An icy force had slowly burrowed into his palm. Merlin raised his hand. The crimson Darkness Eye faintly transformed into a ghostly face and seemed to be mocking Merlin.

"It's Darkness Eye!"

Merlin's face gradually darkened. Even he himself had not realized that he was unwittingly affected by Darkness Eye. He did not have the slightest scruple about slaughtering and was even caught up in the thrill of it.

The more he killed, the more negative energy Darkness Eye would absorb. Darkness Eye would thus grow stronger, and it would be harder for Merlin to suppress Darkness Eye.

"It looks like I'll have to be wary from now on. However, since the seal of the fourth form of Darkness Eye had been broken, I can only use the Maxim to suppress it temporarily. I'll have to use my time wisely and search for a new Maxim!"

Countless thoughts flashed across Merlin's mind in an instant but his expression did not shift. Thereafter, he walked straight into the ancient castle.

In the ancient castle, the dark red puppet led the way. Merlin was still secretly wary of this puppet. Who knew what would happen in the castle?

"What's your name?"

In the pitch darkness of the ancient castle, Merlin asked the dark red puppet.

"I have no name, only a code name. Sir Wizard may address me as Number Three."

"Number Three, since you're a puppet, can you really disobey your master as you wish?"

Merlin felt that it was odd. Wizard Ecuador should by right be the master of a puppet like this but the puppet's current words and actions did not seem to be controlled by Ecuador.

Number Three did not stop walking, and said in a calm tone, "As a puppet, of course I'm bound by Master's control. However, many years ago, I had sensed that Master had died! The control mechanisms he left behind had all vanished along with his demise. Therefore, I'm now under no one's control."

"He's dead?"

Merlin was slightly taken aback. Nevertheless, a few thousand years have passed. No one knew what would happen in the end. Perhaps something unexpected had happened to Wizard Ecuador in the Ecuador Dimension. That would not be surprising.

Since Wizard Ecuador was dead, did that not mean that the entire dimension he occupied was now a dimension without a master?

Merlin knew what a dimension was. It was an enormous world. Currently, the entire continent including the Holy Light Empire, the Kingdom of Blackmoon, and many other large and small nations in addition to Subzero Snowfield, the endless ocean, and other mysterious places – all these combined to form one complete continent. This could be referred to as one dimension.

Wizard Ecuador had occupied a dimension, which meant he was nearly equivalent to a god, and a sole god at that, who was able to reap all the resources of that dimension.

Even Legendary Wizards longed and hoped to possess an entire dimension. This was the fundamental reason the Spell Casters, after banishing the gods, had traveled beyond the Glorious Land to conquer one dimension after another.

Merlin's desire began to burn fervently. A dimension without a master – just the thought of it made one felt extremely excited.

As if it knew what Merlin was thinking, Number Three turned around to say, "Sir Wizard, I believe you understand well the value of a dimension. In order to occupy this dimension, Master had battled against the gods of the dimension for a hundred years before finally wiping them out and occupying the entire dimension. What's more, I know the exact coordinates of this dimension. If Sir Wizard is able to leave the Glorious Land and reach the Ecuador Dimension, you might be able to obtain a prosperous dimension with no master!"

"How does one leave the Glorious Land?"

Merlin asked in a low voice. This was a crucial question. The Glorious Land they spoke of was the entire continent. Even with the position Merlin was in, he had never heard of how to leave this continent and travel into other dimensions.

Nonetheless, the seemingly all-knowing Number Three now shook its head. "I don't know how to leave the Glorious Land either. After all, I'm just a puppet transfigured by my Master to guard the castle. However, I've heard Master inadvertently mentioned that in order to leave the Glorious Land, one had to be a Great Wizard at least. Otherwise, one would not be able to leave the Glorious Land and set foot in other dimensions."

"At least a Great Wizard, huh?"

Merlin was rather disappointed but it made sense after careful thought. Even during the Spell Casters' most glorious era, many Spell Casters had to become Legends and had exiled the gods before they learned of the many dimensions. Only then could they travel beyond the Glorious Land and set foot in other dimensions.

Therefore, it was surely not a simple matter to set foot in other dimensions after leaving the Glorious Land. Perhaps only by becoming a Great Wizard could one find a way to do so.

Even though Merlin was disappointed about this, he was not too sorry about it. He was currently just a Fourth-level Spell Caster and was still a long way from becoming a Great Wizard.

"Hold on!"

Merlin suddenly stopped in his tracks and his eyes flickered ceaselessly. He glared at the dark red puppet before him. "Number Three, what do I do to control you? You should know that without control over a puppet, I have no way of trusting your words. In that case, I only have one choice – which is to destroy you!"

Merlin extended one hand which shone with pale white flames, illuminating the pitch-black passage as if it was daylight.

The dark red color of Number Three was now lighted up by the pale white firelight, and it appeared incredibly weird. It wore no expression, and a red glow twinkled in its eyes.

After a long moment, Number Three answered slowly, "O' powerful Sir Wizard, it's easy enough to control me. You just have to engrave a Mind Branding and you're done!"

"Engrave a Mind Branding? Just like signing a contract?"

Merlin had no experience in controlling puppets.

"That's right, just like signing a contract. After engraving the Mind Branding, you can control me completely. However, I plead that Sir Wizard don't destroy me upon controlling me. Although I'm just a puppet, I long to see the outside world!"

This puppet appeared to be rather sentient, unlike the dead stiffness of other puppets.

Merlin nodded. He had no intention of destroying this puppet. With it around, he could learn much more about the matters of the Spell Casters' most glorious era.

Furthermore, Merlin had set his heart on the Ecuador Dimension that Number Three had mentioned. If he really became a Great Wizard one day, he would not let a prosperous dimension slip through his grasp.

With that, Merlin began to fan out his Mind Power which promptly extended toward the place where Number Three's heart was. Its control core should be where its heart was located.

Chapter 430: Divinity

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

Merlin was already greatly experienced in signing contracts. Controlling Number Three was just the same. When his Mind Power extended into the part where the puppet's heart was, he perceived a crystal-like, transparent sphere.

"Hum."

After Merlin's Mind Power entered the crystal sphere, the dark red puppet lightly trembled. Merlin could also immediately feel a sense of connection to the puppet.

This was a mystical feeling. Merlin was able to discern a powerful wisp of consciousness occupying the crystal sphere. However, he could now completely control the puppet and was able to stifle that burst of consciousness in the crystal sphere.

If Merlin wanted to, he could even extinguish the consciousness of the dark red puppet. Still, this would be of no benefit to Merlin. The dark red puppet knew many secrets and could be a great help to Merlin. Now that he could control Number Three, naturally, it was not necessary to exterminate it.

"Very well, Number Three. What's in the ancient castle?"

Since he had arrived at the ancient castle, he thought that there was sure to be something valuable in a place where a Legendary Wizard had lived. As a guardian of the castle, Number Three should have intimate knowledge of what was inside.

Number Three thought for a moment before shaking its head lightly. "Master, this was merely one of the residences of my previous master back then. In the Glorious Land, my previous master had many other residences like this. In addition, when he moved to the Ecuador Dimension, he had moved everything from the ancient castle. Thus, there's nothing precious left in this castle."

"It's all been taken with him?"

Disappointment washed over Merlin's face. He had thought that he might obtain something good from this castle but did not consider that it had been moved.

"Hold on, my previous master had sealed some items in the ancient castle. I wonder if he brought them along with him? Master, I'll take you for a look. If he hadn't moved them with him, it might be something good!"

The dark red puppet's mysterious look aroused Merlin's curiosity, so he simply followed behind Number Three and walked deeper into the castle.

As no one had moved about in the ancient castle for a long time, there was a dry, unpleasant smell of dust. There were also cobwebs in the passageway, and everything appeared to be in ruins.

Merlin followed Number Three past a few passages and through a few stone doors. At last, they stopped in a spacious hall. The design of the hall was very unusual but it was just as Number Three had said. Most items were gone, taken away by the master of the castle, leaving only empty and hollow space behind.

"Number Three, what are you looking for?"

Merlin was somewhat puzzled. Number Three seemed to be searching for something in the hall. In this ancient castle, was there something Number Three did not know about?

"I've found it. Let's hope my previous master didn't take it with him."

A trace of a smile grew on Number Three's lifeless face, following which he approached a wall and pressed down gently.

"Rumble."

The wall rose up gradually, revealing a small room behind. Merlin followed behind Number Three curiously and entered the room as well.

As soon as he stepped in, Merlin saw dense runes which seemed to be suppressing something at the front. A peculiar wave of energy fluctuations was emitted from there.

"As I thought, he didn't take it. Master, look, this is what the previous master had left behind in the ancient castle. Perhaps he overlooked it back then, so it was left behind."

Number Three pointed to the mysterious, white thread of light that was suppressed by the runes. Merlin had never seen anything like this, and his heart brimmed with curiosity.

"Number Three, what's this? Why does it need to be suppressed by runes?"

"Master, this is a strand of divinity extracted from a god whom Wizard Ecuador had waged a war against. Wizard Ecuador initially wanted to study it, and I don't know what he found. Yet, he left this strand of divinity behind. This is a divinity that was painstakingly manifested by a god through the power of faith. It's the most precious and wondrous strength of a god! Even if it's just a strand, it possesses inconceivably miraculous effects. Divinity can be used to heal any injuries or even sharpen one's sensitivity toward some Elements… In short, this divinity is all-powerful. Even those Great Honored Legends had studied this divinity of gods."

Merlin fixed a firm gaze upon that white thread suppressed by runes. It was divinity, the divinity of the legends?

Gods drew upon the power of faith of living beings to consolidate this divinity. This was a power that belonged only to the gods. Gods who had divinity were extremely fearsome and were indestructible. Without eliminating their divinity, a god would not die!

The Ice Goddess that Merlin encountered had still possessed divinity. Therefore, even the Great Legend of Ice could only temporarily suppress her and slowly drain her of her divinity. This was enough to show how marvelous divinity was!

Merlin had come across such a mystical power in this ancient castle. Although it was just a strand, it was still the wonderful power of divinity.

"Master, in order to get this divinity, you have to get past the Runic Magic Circle that my previous master had hastily set up. Although he had set up this Runic Magic Circle offhandedly, it won't be easy to break."

In fact, Number Three did not need to tell him this. Merlin saw that the complexity of these enigmatic runes far surpassed any Runic Magic Circles he had previously seen.

Even a Rune Wizard would need to exhaust all efforts to unravel runes which had been set up hastily by a Legendary Wizard.

"I can give it a shot!"

Merlin appeared very solemn. The Runic Heartprint emerged between his brows. The complicated Runic Magic Circle, under the effect of Merlin's Runic Heartprint, gradually revealed all its intricacies.

"I can break through it but I'll need time!"

Through the power of the Runic Heartprint, Merlin discovered that although this was a complex Runic Magic Circle, it could still be broken. In terms of attainments in runology, the Great Wizard Fidel was terrifying indeed. Many Legendary Wizards including Rune Wizards were even unable to compare to the Great Wizard Fidel in runology.

As for the Runic Heartprint, it was the lifework of the Great Wizard Fidel, condensing comprehensively his understanding of runology. Therefore, even a Runic Magic Circle set up by the Legendary Wizard Ecuador could be broken.

Merlin positioned Number Three to stand guard outside. In the room, he began to slowly unravel the Runic Magic Circle through the power of the Runic Heartprint. This was a process that demanded great effort and attention. Merlin's Mind Power was nearly exhausted, and he had to recover quickly to continue breaking the Runic Magic Circle.

In this manner, after repeating this for a few days, and the final rune had vanished under the effect of the Runic Heartprint, that white, thread-like strand of divinity was finally no longer under the suppression of the Runic Magic Circle.

The divinity hovered in mid-air, emanating waves of peculiar fluctuations. Without the suppression of the Runic Magic Circle, the mystical fluctuations of the divinity grew more intense.

"Swoosh."

With a swoop of his hand, Merlin grabbed the divinity. This strand of divinity did not look very special, and there was merely a very faint trace of the "godly might".

However, this trace of "godly might", after a long passage of time, had faded to nothing long ago, and was of no threat to Merlin. Looking at the strand of divinity in his hand, countless ideas flashed across Merlin's mind.

According to rumors, divinity was all-powerful, and even gods attached great value to divinity. Wizard Ecuador had used this divinity only for study because even though it was miraculous, the extent of its benefits to a Legend was limited. Perhaps only a great amount of divinity would serve a purpose for a Legendary Wizard.

Nonetheless, to Merlin, there were many functions for this. The current matter of importance was to increase his Mind Power!

Merlin's Mind Power had just reached the Sixth-level. As the effects of Mokra Potion had gradually diminished, it was somewhat unrealistic for Merlin to rely upon Mokra Potion to quickly boost his Mind Power in the future.

Therefore, with this strand of divinity, Merlin could try and see if this all-powerful divinity would increase his Mind Power.

It was simple enough to use divinity – one just had to wrap one's Mind Power around it. According to rumors, it was all-powerful, but rumors were rumors after all. How it was really like – whether it could increase Mind Power – these were all unknown.

What Merlin wanted to do now was to test it out!

As he thought of this, Merlin drew in a deep breath and mobilized his Mind Power to promptly surround the divinity. Using just his thought, the strand of divinity disintegrated into spots of lights which quickly burrowed into Merlin's body.

Merlin immediately shut his eyes and carefully sensed for the effects of divinity.

"Why is there nothing?"

After a moment, Merlin did not feel anything different. His Mind Power did not grow in the slightest. Was the divinity ineffective?

However, the divinity had disintegrated indeed. This was a sign it had been used. Once it was used, it would disappear. Although it was merely a strand of divinity, it should still serve some function for Sixth-level Mind Power no matter what.

Just then, Merlin suddenly felt as if he had been completely submerged in hot water. A cozy, warm feeling diffused throughout his body, following which his mind became dazed. During this hazy period, his Mind Power was like a sapling, rapidly growing at a speed that was mind-boggling.

"It's working!"

Merlin had only this one thought in his head.

From the exterior, one could see that Merlin was shrouded in a warm, white glow. He wore a serene expression, and a smile stretched across his face. He could distinctly feel his Mind Power fluctuating vigorously. With every fluctuation, his Mind Power would grow even greater.

The white light persisted over Merlin's body for a time. After some time, Merlin's Mind Power was still increasing, but the white light covering his body had gradually faded.

Following the disappearance of the white light, that full-body warmth vanished as well. His conscious mind gradually sobered up, and his Mind Power stopped growing.

He calculated the time. From the moment that divinity had vanished until the recovery of his consciousness, it was not even an hour. In such a short time, how much could his Mind Power grow?

"Let's see how much my Mind Power has grown?"

Merlin still harbored some doubts. After all, it was too short a time. He was not clear regarding how much growth that strand of divinity would bring to his Mind Power.

Chapter 431: Sky-Piercing Peak

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

The time which he had used the divinity was far too short. Even if that divinity was wondrous, Merlin did not think that it would increase his Mind Power by much. Based on his understanding, an increase of one time over would be considered decent.

With Merlin's Mind Power currently in the beginning stage of the Sixth-level, an increase of one time over would mean that he was still in the same state. The higher a Spell Caster's level was, the more amount of Mind Power needed for a breakthrough.

However, when Merlin looked at his current Mind Power, he was stupefied and somewhat incredulous. His current Mind Power was not at the beginning stage nor the middle stage but had reached the terrifying peak of the Sixth-level.

That was right, the peak of the Sixth-level, after a transformation that took merely an hour. Such colossal Mind Power was enough to construct numerous Fifth-level spells.

It was the first time Merlin had truly experienced how awesome divinity was. It was not surprising that even the Great Honored Legends were powerless facing gods who possessed divinity, and could only suppress or exile them yet had no way of killing them.

Gods who had divinity were indestructible. The wondrous properties of divinity exceeded the common imagination, and even Legendary Wizards wanted to carry out research on divinity.

"Phew…"

Merlin was extremely excited following which he gradually calmed his turbulent emotions.

"If I could get more divinity, won't that mean I don't have to worry about increasing my Mind Power anymore?"

Some thoughts crossed Merlin's mind. However, he could only imagine how wondrous divinity was. Even Legendary Wizards wanted to study it and ascertain its fundamental properties, to say nothing of ordinary Spell Casters. It was nearly impossible for them to obtain divinity.

Moreover, the gods of the entire continent were mostly banished. There were no more gods, so how would one obtain divinity?

Merlin's idea to get more divinity and use it to increase his Mind Power could only remain nothing more than his musings. It was far too unrealistic. The fact that he was able to come across this strand of divinity in the ancient castle and increase his Mind Power was already an unexpected fortune.

Moreover, he had learned of a few secrets regarding Spell Casters thousands of years ago in a dimension that had no master in addition to the fact that only Great Wizards could leave this continent and set foot in other dimensions. These were all a great harvest.

Nonetheless, Merlin could not linger here any longer, and could not even stay in Subzero Snowfield. He had originally arrived at Subzero Snowfield by accident. If it was not for the threat of Darkness Eye, Merlin would have been willing to stay in Subzero Snowfield for a long time, waiting for the southern Spell Caster world to calm down before returning.

However, with the threat of the fourth form of Darkness Eye, Merlin had no way of continuing his stay in Subzero Snowfield. There was not much left of his Maxim, and he needed to look for a new one.

From the first and second volumes of the Neverending Book, Merlin had learned of the location of the third volume. It was at Sky-Piercing Peak, situated in the southern Spell Caster world. Therefore, if he wanted to acquire the Maxim left behind by the master of the Neverending Book, he would have to go to Sky-Piercing Peak.

Merlin exited the ancient castle, bringing with him the puppet "Number Three". He checked upon the Flame Maxim and the Ice Maxim in his Awareness. Based on the current consumption speed of suppressing the fourth form of Darkness Eye, these two Maxims could last him for at least one more year.

A year's time was far too short for a Spell Caster. Thus, Merlin had no choice but to get a new Maxim. He had set his heart on this matter, and it was an important task that must be fulfilled.

If he obtained the third volume of the Neverending Book yet still did not obtain a Maxim, then Merlin would be in danger. With his current state, he would not be able to suppress the fourth form of Darkness Eye no matter what.

Merlin had been forced into a high-risk situation. Still, back when he was facing Wizard Blackmurk's relentless pursuit, Merlin had no better option other than releasing the seal on the fourth form of Darkness Eye.

"I'll wait for a while and inform Ernie and Watson to hurry here as soon as possible. Following that, we'll return to the south together!"

This time, Merlin's trip to Subzero Snowfield had reaped him plenty of benefits. Not only had his capabilities increase but he also gained two Seventh-level slaves. A Seventh-level Wizard was a mighty force even in the southern Spell Caster world, let alone two of them.

In addition, there was the dark red puppet, Number Three, which Merlin had just gained control of. Its abilities were extraordinary too. To be able to withstand Merlin's Incinerating Fire and Glacier Country, it must possess strength comparable to a Seventh-level Wizard.

In this manner, Merlin's power alone was already comparable to a massive Spell Caster clan with an extensive legacy, one which was most formidable.

Thus, Merlin sent a message to Ernie and Watson through the contract paper. Both of them had been following behind Merlin and Blackmurk, but Merlin and Blackmurk were far too fast and they had been unable to keep up. Now, they were still far behind.

Merlin waited for one day more. Only then, in the distant sky, two figures appeared before landing on the ground. They were Ernie and Watson.

"Master."

"Master."

Ernie and Watson gazed somewhat curiously at Number Three by Merlin's side. It should be known that Number Three, being a puppet, was unusual to begin with, in addition to the eye-catching dark red color of its body. It left a deep impression on people even after just a glance.

"This is a puppet I've just obtained. There's something urgent I need to attend to. I've to hurry back to the southern Spell Caster world. Are you both willing to go with me?"

Merlin spoke straightforwardly.

Ernie and Watson exchanged a glance. Ever since they had become Merlin's slaves, they knew that Merlin was from the south, and would have to return sooner or later. It was just that they did not think it would be this soon.

Although Merlin seemed to be asking them, how could they refuse as slaves? Even if they had to leave Subzero Snowfield which they grew up in, they had no choice in the matter.

"We're willing to accompany Master."

Upon hearing their agreement, Merlin nodded. Following that, he delayed no longer. Wind Elements surged around his body and engulfed the three of them, and they flew off quickly into the distance.

…

In the late autumn, the dense woods were piled thick with fallen leaves. The withered, yellow leaves spun to the ground as if to herald the arrival of late autumn.

There was even a slight chill in the mountain woods. In this unfrequented area, a magnificent peak soared through the clouds, causing onlookers to click their tongues in amazement.

This was Sky-Piercing Peak, the most famous peak in the south. There seemed to be no way to measure its height for it was rumored to pierce through the clouds. Only those powerful Spell Casters would dare to reach the top of the peak.

At the foot of the mountain, there were blocks of buildings as well as a huge castle. This looked to be a small city with a dense population, and people went in and out constantly.

However, this was not a small city, and there was no such city established in the depths of the mountains. In this mountain forest which was isolated all around, only Spell Casters could possibly set up a bustling town here.

This was the Mill clan who controlled Sky-Piercing Peak!

The Mill clan was considered a sizable force in the southern Spell Caster world. As a Spell Caster clan, they had a long heritage but their resources were still lacking in comparison to other spell casters' organizations. Thus, though they were well-established, they were merely a Spell Caster clan.

However, as they dominated Sky-Piercing Peak, they were relatively well-known in the southern Spell Caster world.

At the moment, the entire southern Spell Caster world had descended into chaos. Nonetheless, this border area was calm and peaceful. As Sky-Piercing Peak was at the northernmost part of the south and was surrounded by dense mountain forests, even the average Spell Casters would rarely come here.

If Sky-Piercing Peak had not been so special, no Spell Caster would ever come here. Thus, though the southern Spell Caster world was in chaos, it was still calm as always around here.

In the quiet mountain forest, birds were chirping. A small woodland critter would occasionally tread by softly, resulting in intermittent rustling sounds.

"Whoosh."

From thin air, four figures suddenly descended quickly.

These four figures seemed to be led by a black-robed young man who was in the middle. He did not speak, only gazed at that highest peak.

"Master, to think that there's really such a unique peak in this world. It's my first time seeing such a high peak!"

Wizard Ernie spoke, moved by the sight.

"Indeed. Such a high peak would be difficult to find in Subzero Snowfield."

Wizard Watson was just like Ernie. Both of them had only been in Subzero Snowfield since young and had never stepped foot beyond that land. Naturally, they had never gazed upon such a majestic peak like Sky-Piercing Peak.

In fact, it was Merlin's first time at Sky-Piercing Peak. Although he was astounded deep down, he did not move or speak, and his expression did not shift at all. At all times, he was paying attention to the changes in the first and second volumes of the Neverending Book.

There was a special connection between these volumes of the Neverending Book. Once they were close to each other, some changes would occur. According to the clue provided by the first two volumes of the Neverending Book, the third volume, along with the Maxim left behind by the master of the Neverending Book, should be on Sky-Piercing Peak.

"Master, there's a Spell Caster clan up ahead."

Ernie swept across the area with his Mind Power and immediately knew of the situation in Sky-Piercing Peak. If they wanted to enter Sky-Piercing Peak, the Spell Caster clan below the peak would inevitably be alerted by their presence.

"That's the Mill clan. We'll go straight up for we don't have to care about them!"

Merlin spoke coldly. The Mill clan was nothing but a mere Spell Caster clan. The strongest in that clan might perhaps be a Seventh-level Spell Caster but Merlin currently possessed the fourth form of Darkness Eye. He could wipe out even Eighth-level Spell Casters, to say nothing of a Seventh-level Spell Caster.

"Swish."

With that, Merlin led Ernie and the rest, rapidly flying toward the peak.

Nonetheless, such a huge disturbance, with four figures at that, naturally attracted the attention of the Mill clan. In particular, as Merlin neared the peak, there were flickering runes, indicating that there was an expert in runes among the members of the Mill clan.

"Hum."

Merlin and the rest came into contact with the runes and were immediately encircled by these runes. Below them, a few figures quickly flew out from the Mill clan, heading toward Merlin and the rest.

Chapter 432: Third Volume of the Neverending Book I

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

"Who are you? This is a restricted area. You're not allowed to come near Sky-Piercing Peak. Leave now!"

The few figures in the distance were yet to arrive but their voices had traveled ahead of them. They were Spell Casters from the Mill clan, and their tones were brutish.

At this moment, Merlin and the others had accidentally triggered a Runic Magic Circle, so they were surrounded by it. Although the Runic Magic Circle had been meticulously laid out by the Mill clan, its workmanship was quite shoddy and thus, did not contain a lot of power.

Merlin could not be bothered to use the Runic Heartprint, so he simply used spell power to break it open forcefully.

"Incinerating Fire!"

A wisp of fire flew out from Merlin's finger and subsequently burned bigger and bigger. In the blink of an eye, a large fire was raging around them. The pale white flames emitted a frighteningly high temperature. Under the intense burning of Incinerating Fire, the Runic Magic Circle glowed dimly and disappeared.

"Whoosh."

Merlin and the others appeared once again at the base of the mountain. The few figures flying toward them from afar were slightly astonished. Naturally, they were aware of the Runic Magic Circle that surrounded Sky-Piercing Peak. The fact that these few Wizards appeared meant that they had managed to break the Runic Magic Circle.

"Who are you? This is a restricted area belonging to the Mill clan. Outsiders are not allowed to enter without permission!"

From the foot of the mountain, an elderly Wizard flew toward them. He peered at Merlin and the others with a cautious look.

Merlin regarded the Spell Casters from the Mill clan coldly and said, "I need to enter Sky-Piercing Peak!"

Once he finished speaking, Merlin did not spare these Wizards another look, and took off toward Sky-Piercing Peak. Every moment he spent dithering, it would consume more power from the Maxim, so he was not willing to waste his time on the Mill clan.

"Swish."

Seeing that Merlin and the others had completely ignored them, the Spell Casters from the Mill clan looked slightly enraged. Before they could utter another word, they sensed that the Elemental fluctuations emitted by Wizards Ernie and Watson.

"Seventh-level!"

A trace of shock appeared on the face of the elderly Wizard. These were Seventh-level Spell Casters. The Elemental fluctuations which emitted from both their bodies were characteristic of Seventh-level Spell Casters.

The fact that the two followers were Seventh-level Spell Casters, accompanied by their respectful behavior toward Merlin, the elderly Wizard could not help but feel slightly shocked. The words in his mouth died, and he could only watch wide-eyed at Merlin and the others flying toward Sky-Piercing Peak.

"Sky-Piercing Peak is the foundation of the existence of our clan. They mustn't be allowed to enter freely! However, they have at least two Seventh-level Spell Casters, so we can only request the Seventh-level Wizards to act." You're reading on NovelFull .Tks!

The Mill clan was a formidable Spell Caster clan. Although they did not have a Ninth-level Spell Caster like the Dark Magic Region to safeguard the fort, they had a number of Seventh-level Spell Casters!

These Seventh-level Spell Casters were in charge of protecting the status of the entire Mill clan, so unless it was a truly dire situation, they would not be called upon.

However, right now, Merlin and the others were adamant about entering Sky-Piercing Peak. As it was the foundation of the existence of the Mill clan, the secret of Sky-Piercing Peak must not be discovered by others…

Thinking along these lines, the elderly Wizard quickly flew toward the Mill clan at the foot of the mountain.

…

In mid-air, Wizard Ernie's Mind Power was constantly surrounding the mountain, so naturally, he noticed the departure of the elderly Wizard.

"Master, the Wizards from the Mill clan has left but I'm afraid they won't give up so easily!"

Wizard Ernie cautioned Merlin carefully.

"Don't mind them!"

Merlin's voice was icy. He was completely unconcerned about the Mill clan. If they tried to stop him, then he would no longer hold back. He was starting to like bloodshed.

He knew that this was due to the subtle influence of Darkness Eye but he was unable to control it.

"Oh? There's a change?"

Merlin paid close attention to the two volumes of the Neverending Book in his hands. When he was at the foot of the mountain, there was no change to the Neverending Book. However now, at mid-level, the two volumes of the Neverending Book were emitting a soft glow. This confirmed that Sky-Piercing Peak contained the third volume of the Neverending Book.

Since there was now a clue, Merlin did not hesitate and sped up toward the peak of the mountain. Nevertheless, this mountain was called the Sky-Piercing Peak for a reason. Despite Merlin flying into the clouds at an incredible speed, he was yet to reach the peak.

"Hoo…"

At last, a few silhouettes landed on the peak of the mountain, which were none other than Merlin and the others. Due to the incredible height of Sky-Piercing Peak which was way above the clouds, there was a strong, cold air that blew in their faces like a sharp knife, causing pangs of pain on their faces.

Fortunately, all of them had Defensive spells, and Merlin's physique had been primed to an impressive level, so none of them were bothered by the terrible conditions at the peak.

Merlin assessed the surroundings of the peak with his gaze. The ground was littered with dents and dips like it had experienced a big battle.

However, in one corner of the peak, there was still a patch of even ground. The area was shrouded with Runic Magic Circles, obviously placed there by the Mill clan.

The entire Sky-Piercing Peak had been occupied by the Mill clan for many years, so they must have discovered something unique about it. Merlin was thus worried that the third volume of the Neverending Book, and the Maxim left behind by the mysterious Wizard in Sky-Piercing Peak had been discovered.

When Merlin approached the Runic Magic Circles, the two volumes of the Neverending Book in his hands glowed even brighter than before. It was clear that the third volume of the Neverending Book probably lay inside the Runic Magic Circles. Otherwise, these two volumes would not display such a reaction.

These Runic Magic Circles were much more complicated than the ones at the foot of the mountain. Therefore, Merlin had no choice but to rely upon the power of the Runic Heartprint. In between his brows, the Runic Heartprint loomed faintly as it began to examine the Runic Magic Circles.

"Hum."

Once the Runic Heartprint was activated, under the veil of its power, the structures of the Runic Magic Circles were all revealed before Merlin, so he could easily break through the Runic Magic Circles.

As Merlin was preparing to break through the Runic Magic Circles, a few enormous Mind Powers suddenly appeared and swiftly locked onto Merlin and the others.

"Oh?"

Merlin turned urgently and cast his gaze toward the sky in a distance.

Wizard Ernie and Wizard Watson were both sporting an ugly look because it was their responsibility to be the lookout. However, now, the opponents' Mind Powers were sweeping the peak of the mountain with an air of superiority. It was obvious that the opponents' Mind Powers, and perhaps their abilities, were more powerful than Ernie and Watson.

"Master, someone is coming!"

Wizards Ernie and Watson immediately became alert. The Spell Casters who were coming were not simple. There were three of them, and all three were Seventh-level Spell Casters. They were obviously the strongest forces in the Mill clan.

"Swish swish swish."

Soon, three figures descended at the peak of the mountain. Dressed in purple robes, these Spell Casters held a piercing look in their eyes. The strong elemental fluctuations on their bodies clearly did not hide their statuses as powerful Seventh-level Spell Casters!

"Sky-Piercing Peak is a restricted area belonging to the Mill clan. We hope these Wizards can leave, else you'll have to bear the consequences!"

The leading Wizard took a good look at Merlin, Ernie, and the others, and a cautious look appeared in his gaze, so his tone was very polite.

"Bear the consequences?"

Wizard Ernie sneered and took a step forward. "There's something my Master needs at Sky-Piercing Peak!"

"Master?"

The three Seventh-level Wizards from the Mill clan were slightly taken aback. The fact that a Seventh-level Wizard referred Merlin as "Master" showed that he was the one to be feared the most.

Therefore, the three of them shifted their gazes onto Merlin.

Merlin frowned. The third volume of the Neverending Book had been located, so he could no longer be bothered with this nonsense from the Mill clan. A violent emotion began to bubble inside his heart.

"Glacier Country, suppress!"

"Boom!"

Once Merlin's command fell from his lips, the surrounding air in the atmosphere froze, and a layer of translucent light ray enveloped these Spell Casters.

"Crack."

Even the ground began to freeze. The expressions on the Seventh-level Spell Casters from the Mill clan shifted quickly when they felt their bodies turning stiff.

Glacier Country was a special Pandora Demon Ability invented by the Legend of Ice. Although it had not been useful against Wizard Blackmurk's Alchemy Creature, it was simply because the Alchemy Creature was too strong. Using it against these three Seventh-level Spell Casters from the Mill clan, on the other hand, was an easy task.

These three Seventh-level Wizards did not possess any Pandora Demon Ability, so they were considered the weakest of all Seventh-level Wizards. The Wizard robes on their bodies as well as their spells were all useless against the suppressing powers of Glacier Country.

"Fire!"

Merlin slapped his hand down mercilessly, and endless flames burst to life in an instant, which turned Glacier Country into a sea of flames.

With the suppression and binding power of Glacier Country in addition to Incinerating Fire, this ruthless combination would be hard-pressed to counter even for a Seventh-level Wizard with Fusion Pandora Demon Ability, let alone the weakest Seventh-level Wizards.

Therefore, the three Seventh-level Wizard who had braved the forefront did not even get a chance to act before they were turned into ashes among the flames.

"Ernie, Watson, Number Three, all of you wait here. Anyone who comes to the peak, kill them!"

Merlin withdrew his Incinerating Fire, and Glacier Country also slowly disappeared. However, Ernie and Watson were both still staring wide-eyed, feeling shaken to their cores.

Those three from the the Mill clan were Seventh-level Wizards. Though they were weak and did not have Pandora Demon Abilities, they were still Seventh-level Wizards!

These powerful Seventh-level Wizards were killed by Merlin with just a wave of his hand and were not even able to put up the slightest trace of resistance. Merlin's tactics once again made Ernie and Watson feel overwhelmed.

"Yes, Master!"

Despite their hearts being shaken to the core, Ernie and Watson did not dare to neglect or disobey Merlin's orders.

"Fuh…"

Merlin exhaled lengthily. Without the harassment from the Mill clan, a burden was lifted, so he could now search for the third volume of the Neverending Book at Sky-Piercing Peak.

Hence, Merlin quickly turned around, and squinted his eyes at the complicated Runic Magic Circles on the peak.

Chapter 433: Third Volume of the Neverending Book II

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

The Runic Heartprint loomed between Merlin's brows, and then out flew several mysterious runes, quickly forming a complex Runic Magic Circle which pressed down on the Runic Magic Circles in a distance.

"Crack".

With the help of the Runic Heartprint, the complicated Runic Magic Circles were broken in an instant, revealing a deep valley.

There was a cavernous hole inside the deep valley. Based on Merlin's observation, he discovered that the hole seemed to have been excavated in a deliberate manner. It must have been accidentally discovered by the Mill clan.

The hole must contain certain secrets. Otherwise, the Mill clan would not hide it warily with the Runic Magic Circles.

"Swish".

Merlin did not hesitate and stepped inside.

The passage was very dark, and a little damp, so Merlin extended a finger. A small, pale-white flame flickered to life at the tip of his finger, lighting up the entire passageway.

The further Merlin walked inside the hole, the stronger the vibration of the two volumes of the Neverending Book in his hands. There was no doubt that the third volume of the Neverending Book laid in the depths of this passage.

Therefore, Merlin was even more cautious than before. If the Neverending Book was inside the passage, then why did the Mill clan not take it?

If it truly was the third volume of the Neverending Book, it would contain vast amounts of Pandora Demon Abilities, so how come the three Seventh-level Spell Casters from the Mill clan earlier did not cultivate any Pandora Demon Ability?

Everything seemed to be shrouded in mystery.

As Merlin ventured deeper inside, a glimmer of light finally appeared at the end. It was the kind of glow from candlelight, and Merlin wondered if there was a member of the Mill clan waiting inside?

Merlin's Mind Power kept a close look out on his surroundings. At the end of the passage, he came to an underground chamber. On its walls, lit candles illuminated the entire room but there was not a single Spell Caster in sight.

The chamber also contained traces of activities of Spell Casters. It appeared that the Mill clan often sent their Wizards to check on this place. So, what was the secret that warranted so much effort from the Mill clan?

There was only one entrance to the chamber which was a gigantic stone door. The opening mechanism was simple as it was situated right next to the door itself. When Merlin opened the stone door, he saw an amazing sight.

A chilling wave of destructive aura filled the room in an instant. Even Merlin felt suffocated at this moment and dared not take another step forward.

In front of him was a huge Runic Magic Circle like a clear glass crystal. There was a power that was as thick as a pillar inside, at the same time, exuding an overwhelmingly vicious aura.

"Maxim! It's the terrifying Thunder Maxim!"

Merlin was undoubtedly familiar with this Maxim. This familiar aura was the Maxim he had been dreaming of, the treasure that he had been searching for in Sky-Piercing Peak. Furthermore, judging from the fluctuation of its aura, it was obvious that it was a Thunder Maxim.

Up till now, Merlin already possessed the Flame Maxim and the Ice Maxim. Whereas Sky-Piercing Peak was hiding the Thunder Maxim. Due to the destructive nature of the Thunder Maxim, it would be difficult for an average Spell Caster to approach the Maxim, not to mention obtain it.

Moreover, the Runic Magic Circle which was encasing the Thunder Maxim was incomparably complicated and contained a fearsome power. Once the Runic Magic Circle was touched even slightly, it would unleash a destructive attack.

At this moment, Merlin finally understood why the Mill clan spent so much effort protecting Sky-Piercing Peak and why they would send people to check on the chamber.

They had already found the hidden Maxim in Sky-Piercing Peak!

This Thunder Maxim was probably the Maxim left behind by the mysterious owner of the Neverending Book. The third volume of the Neverending Book was just lying next to the Thunder Maxim. It was not that the Mill clan did not want the third volume of the Neverending Book but they were simply unable to obtain it.

Not only were they unable to get close to the Thunder Maxim but they also feared the attack from the Runic Magic Circle. Thus, they deliberately built such a chamber to guard this Thunder Maxim while they figured out a way to get close to the Thunder Maxim or the third volume of the Neverending Book.

Unfortunately, a Maxim left behind by a Great Legend coupled with a personally-arranged Runic Magic Circle was certainly no easy feat that could be cracked by those three weakest-tier Seventh-level Spell Casters from the Mill clan. Even a spell casters' organization with Ninth-level Spell Casters might not be able to crack open this Runic Magic Circle.

For one, this Runic Magic Circle was not ordinary. It was not a mere defensive Runic Magic Circle but a defensive plus attacking Runic Magic Circle. Once it was triggered, the person would immediately be attacked by the Runic Magic Circle at full force.

Considering that it was a Runic Magic Circle that had been personally arranged by a Legendary Wizard, if it attacked at full force, who on earth would be able to withstand the attack?

Therefore, the Mill clan had discovered the Thunder Maxim and the third volume of the Neverending Book for naught because they were helpless against it. They could only see it in front of their eyes but were unable to obtain it.

This was the regret of a weak Spell Caster! They found a treasure chest but could not open it.

"Hum".

Merlin took a deep breath and activated the Runic Heartprint. The glowing Runic Heartprint clearly displayed before Merlin, every structure of the Runic Magic Circle that had been personally arranged by the Legendary Wizard.

However, after carefully studying the structure of the Runic Magic Circle, it was Merlin's turn to sigh deeply. This Runic Magic Circle was indeed too complicated to solve.

It was the most complicated Runic Magic Circle that Merlin had ever seen, excluding the combination of the Runic Magic Circles that covered the entire Dark Magic Region. Back in the day, the Runic Magic Circles in the Dark Magic Region had been put together by the Great Wizard Fidel with great effort.

The Great Wizard Fidel's understanding of runology was almost at its peak or else he would not be able to conceive such an astonishing and priceless Runic Heartprint.

With the help of the Runic Heartprint, Merlin was able to progress from being illiterate in runology to being able to set-up and tear down some complicated Runic Magic Circles. These accomplishments were made possible with the power of the Runic Heartprint.

The same was true for this Runic Magic Circle before him. It was extremely complicated but it was not entirely impossible to crack. It would only take a very long time.

With the Runic Heartprint, Merlin did not believe that there was any Runic Magic Circle that could not be cracked. Nevertheless, Merlin also had another worry. If he somehow managed to break through the Runic Magic Circle and the Thunder Maxim came bursting out, how would he be able to withstand such terrifying power?

The last time, Merlin was only able to suppress the Ice Maxim by relying on spell derivation by the Matrix. He used the Matrix to rapidly consume the Ice Maxim, and with the help of the Flame Maxim, eventually managed to suppress it.

Right now, on the other hand, Merlin needed the power of the Maxim to suppress Darkness Eye. Since keeping Darkness Eye constantly suppressed required the powers of the Maxims, Merlin needed a large number of Maxims.

The Thunder Maxim was very large, so Merlin did not want to simply exhaust it. Otherwise, he would no longer be able to suppress the fourth form of the Darkness Eye.

"Swoosh".

Merlin took out the first and second volume of the Neverending Book. At this moment, the two volumes were changing rapidly and seemed eager to fly out from Merlin's hand.

Merlin considered for a moment and decided to allow nature to take its course. He wanted to see what would happen when the three volumes were combined.

"Whoosh whoosh."

Merlin did not suppress the two volumes of the Neverending Book any longer and allowed them to fly out.

In a flash, the two volumes of the Neverending Book flew toward the Runic Magic Circle but hovered outside like they were being obstructed by the Runic Magic Circle. At the same time, inside the Runic Magic Circle, the third volume of the Neverending Book which was lying next to the Thunder Maxim also appeared to have sensed the presence of the other two volumes. It began to glow brightly and flew toward the two volumes of the Neverending Book.

The third volume of the Neverending Book was vastly different from the first two volumes. It exuded a mysterious and powerful aura, just like a powerful Spell Caster.

Surprisingly, the Runic Magic Circle did not block the third volume of the Neverending Book from passing through, so it penetrated the barrier of the Runic Magic Circle and rapidly intertwined with the other two volumes.

There was dazzling light mid-air in the chamber. The three volumes of the Neverending Book were slowly combining. As mentioned in the Neverending Book, only the combination of all three volumes would reveal the Maxim.

Therefore, once these three volumes were combined, there should be a close linkage to the Thunder Maxim. Merlin was slightly excited to see what happened next.

Seconds turned minutes, and time continued to pass. After more than an hour, the dazzling light on the three volumes of the Neverending Book had finally subsided. In the air, a new Neverending Book had appeared.

However, this new Neverending Book had completely changed form. For starters, there was only one volume left, and it glowed radiantly with a golden shimmer. Mysterious runes loomed faintly on top of it.

"Hum hum hum".

The runes on the Neverending Book and the extremely complicated Runic Magic Circle intertwined with one another, and thereafter, the complicated Runic Magic Circle unexpectedly began to gradually disappear.

This caught Merlin by surprise. Apparently once the three volumes of the Neverending Book were combined, it served such purpose. It seemed that he would not need to activate the Runic Heartprint and painstakingly dismantle this complicated Runic Magic Circle after all.

Following the collapse of the Runic Magic Circle, the terrifying aura of the Thunder Maxim started to ricochet uncontrollably around the chamber. Even Merlin felt like he was caught in a tidal wave, seemingly small and helpless.

Merlin tried his best to hold on, and with through strong gritted teeth, he caught the Neverending Book in mid-air. The moment the Neverending Book came into contact with his hand, Merlin felt the terrifying aura of the Thunder Maxim being absorbed by the Neverending Book. Suddenly, Merlin was completely unaffected by the surge of the Maxim.

Moreover, the Neverending Book faintly emitted a strange power that seemed to be linked with the Thunder Maxim, allowing him to get closer to the Thunder Maxim with ease.

"Holding the three volumes of the Neverending Book allows you to absorb the Thunder Maxim!"

On the cover of the Neverending Book, small golden letters began to flash into view. They were all written in the ancient Molta language so it was probably left behind by the mysterious Legendary Wizard.

"The Neverending Book! I see, in order to absorb the Maxim, I've to rely on the Neverending Book!"

Merlin's eyes shined brightly. Now he knew the true importance of these three volumes of the Neverending Book. Otherwise, even if he had found the Thunder Maxim by himself, he would be in the same quandary as the Mill clan, completely helpless against the Thunder Maxim and the Runic Magic Circle.

This Thunder Maxim was different than the Ice Maxim where it was meant to be passed down and absorbed by another Wizard. As long as the Wizard held the three volumes of the Neverending Book, the Thunder Maxim could be easily absorbed.

Merlin took a deep breath and reined in his excitable emotions. His held the golden Neverending Book tightly in his grip and began to edge closer to the Thunder Maxim with the destructive aura.