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Chapter 936: Third-form Shifter!

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

"Third-form!"

Merlin jumped out of the Nourishment Pond. He looked very strange now, and could be called terrifying. Only his upper body and head were of a human's while all other areas were covered in thick black fur. His claws extended, sharp like blades.

His legs were built with strong muscles and contained a terrifying explosive force. Oddly, Merlin was still standing now but he seemed to have an instinctive habit of lying down.

Now that he had transformed into the Two-headed Pterolycus, an inborn fighting gift appeared in his mind. He could easily use the frightening power despite not being familiar with it.

"Swoosh."

Merlin braced his legs and his huge figure instantly turned into an afterimage, flashing around the entire laboratory. His speed was incredible. If it were nighttime, one would only feel the movement of air, and be unable to see any shadow.

"How swift!"

Merlin was overjoyed. Although he knew long ago that the greatest characteristic of a Two-headed Pterolycus was its speed, he did not expect it to be so fast that a shadow would not be left behind.

With this speed, even if he could not beat an enemy, he could run away.

It seemed that choosing the Two-headed Pterolycus was not without benefits. This was just the third-form. If he could fully morph and grow two wings, his speed would increase multiple times, and it would be horrifying.

"Not bad. The speed is very quick. As for strength…"

Merlin forcefully swept his claws. A white light flashed, and the laboratory's wall was directly gouged.

"Crack."

Merlin's sharp claws had easily sunk into the hard wall almost effortlessly. Third-form shifting of the Two-headed Pterolycus had now demonstrated its powerful ability.

Now, Merlin had finally had the strength to protect himself.

After all, someone who had inherited an almighty beast bloodline needed at least twenty years to reach the third-form. Even Count Stanwin, who was a genius, only had a breakthrough to the third-form of his Deinosuchus bloodline when he was twenty-six years old.

This was the advantage of Hosts. As long as there was a Nourishment Pool, and as long as one could suppress the almighty beast's will, one's strength could be rapidly improved. There was no need to accumulate power for a long time and slowly train to purify the almighty beast bloodline.

Of course, not everyone was as lucky as Merlin. The instability of the almighty beast's will had always been the greatest problem to Hosts because once their strength improved, and their shapeshifting level increased, the almighty beast's will would also become stronger and pose a threat to the Host.

However, Merlin did not have to worry about that at all. Even if the Two-headed Pterolycus' will was a hundred times stronger, it would not pose a threat to him. Therefore, the most unstable factor for Hosts was no trouble for Merlin at all.

Merlin quickly reversed the shapeshifting. He was naked, and he had fair skin and few muscles but it did not mean that he was weak.

On the contrary, it seemed that the Nourishment Pond had not only enhanced the strength of the bloodline and his strength after morphing but it also subtly enhanced Merlin's physical quality. Now, Merlin's physical quality was no inferior to a heavy knight's.

"Merlin."

Suddenly, Titus' voice rang in Merlin's mind. There seemed to be hidden joy in his voice.

Merlin was surprised. Titus usually did not take the initiative to speak. Could it be that there were changes in the Illusory World?

Thus, he immediately immersed his consciousness in his Awareness and saw that his Illusory World was still a general framework and had not recovered much. There did not seem to be any changes.

"Titus, what's the matter?"

Merlin asked while frowning.

"Merlin, didn't you feel it? The Illusory World had changed."

"The Illusory World had changed?"

Merlin felt carefully. It seemed that the Illusory World did not change but he only gave it a cursory glance and did not observe it carefully.

Now, Merlin focused his attention and felt the changes in the Illusory World. As the creator of the Illusory World, Merlin naturally felt the changes quickly.

"It became stable again?"

Merlin was somewhat startled. Previously, his Illusory World continuously expanded while he was still in the Void Zone, and finally expanded to one-tenth the size of the Void Zone. That was already very horrifying.

However, it was only the expansion of the world, and there seemed to be no progress in the stability of the world. Before, Merlin had felt that it was because the natural order in the Illusory World was not strong enough, which caused his Illusory World to be unstable. As long as the natural order of the world was constantly strengthened, the Illusory World would gradually become stable.

The stability of a world was also very important to a Latitude Cosmos. Just like in the Void Zone before, Merlin's power had grown so strong that even the Void Zone could not destroy him but Merlin was also unable to break the Void Zone, and had to leave it instead.

In the end, the Void Zone took the initiative to "abandon" Merlin. If not for that, Merlin would not have been able to break away from the Void Zone by relying on his own strength.

This was because the Void Zone was too stable.

"Is it because of… The body?"

Merlin's heart jumped. He had never thought of this possibility. Was the body related to the Illusory World?

In the beginning, when Merlin had accomplished his Illusory World, his body was not essential. Eventually, he had abandoned his body and lived purely as Mind Power. As long as the Illusory World was not destroyed, he would not die.

However, up until the final battle with the will of the Void Zone, Merlin's Illusory World was never able to turn illusions into reality, and he had never found the reason why.

The Illusory World had a will that was comparable to that of a Latitude Cosmos. However, it had reached one-tenth of the Void Zone but was still unable to turn illusions into reality. It seemed like something was missing.

Merlin never had any ideas. However, now, his mind flashed and he seemed to have grasped something.

The Illusory World was not stable enough and could not rival a Latitude Cosmos at all. Perhaps this was why Merlin had never been able to use the Illusory World to turn illusion into reality.

The stability of the Illusory World seemed to have some connection with the strength of the body but whether that was true or not was still beyond Merlin's conclusion. He could only slowly observe it.

If there was a connection, then Merlin's previous practice of abandoning his body was completely wrong. However, this world had given Merlin a chance to use the Illusory World to turn illusion into reality.

"It seems coming to this Almighty Beast World isn't completely fruitless…"

Merlin felt for the first time that it was not a mistake for him to come to this Latitude Cosmos.

Chapter 937: Visit

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

Merlin withdrew his consciousness from the Illusory World. He picked up the clothes he had prepared beforehand and put them on before turning to check on the Nourishment Pond.

At this time, the Nourishment Pond had become a deep moss green and did not emit any unpleasant odor. The two hundred or so materials that Merlin had added earlier must have been absorbed by him.

He faintly felt that if he wanted to raise the grade of shifting, he would need more materials to prepare the Nourishment Pond, and that amount would be quite terrifying.

"I need more money. A thousand gold coins or even two or three thousand gold coins are far from enough."

Merlin knew that the Nourishment Ponds for Hosts were expensive but he did not expect that it would be so expensive. Although Count Stanwin doted on him very much and gave him everything he asked for, it was the first time he needed so much money after coming to an unfamiliar place.

Furthermore, the three hundred heavy knights who had followed Count Stanwin were a big expense. It was already good that Merlin was given one thousand gold coins. It would be unrealistic to ask Count Stanwin for more.

However, for a while after Merlin had arrived in the Holy Dragon Empire, he could not think of any other ways.

Nothing would come out of staying in the laboratory, so Merlin simply left and locked it up. This laboratory was his secret that only Count Stanwin could know about.

After returning to the hall, he saw Count Stanwin who seemed to be looking for Merlin.

"Leon, you've come at the right time. Come visit Count Altadin with me."

Count Stanwin said to Merlin with a smile.

"Count Altadin?"

Merlin looked puzzled.

"We'll talk in the carriage."

Thus, Merlin could only follow Count Stanwin into the carriage.

In the carriage, Count Stanwin explained before Merlin could ask, "Count Altadin is my good friend. I saved his life in the past before, so I asked him for help after coming to the Holy Dragon City this time. This manor was found with the help of Count Altadin. I'm bringing you along to visit Count Altadin and introduce him to you."

Merlin nodded. It was not surprising that Count Stanwin was able to find such a large manor so quickly. Although it was deserted, it was not something that anyone could simply buy.

Count Altadin must have contributed greatly.

After understanding the reason, Merlin did not ask anything else and instead, silently stayed in the carriage, listening to the sound of the carriage wheels as if dazed.

After a while, the carriage came to a gradual stop. Count Stanwin lifted the curtain of the carriage and looked back at Merlin before saying, "Leon, we've reached Count Altadin's manor. Let's go."

Merlin followed Count Stanwin out of the carriage and looked in front. A huge manor that looked relatively old appeared in front of him. There were also some guards patrolling outside.

These guards became even more courteous upon seeing Merlin and the others.

"I'm Count Stanwin. I've come to visit Count Altadin."

Count Stanwin directly revealed his identity, and all the guards saluted at once.

"Honorable Count Stanwin, please wait a moment while we report your arrival."

The guards immediately went to report the matter, and soon, a middle-aged attractive and plump woman of about forty years old appeared.

"Count Stanwin, I'm Nathalian, Count Altadin's housekeeper. Count Altadin is delighted to know of your arrival. Please, follow me."

Although the lady housekeeper, Nathalian, was in her forties, she still looked like she was in her thirties. She possessed a full figure, and was especially plump on her bosom, inciting the imagination of others.

Under the guidance of this charming housekeeper, Merlin and Count Stanwin entered the manor.

The environment of the manor was very beautiful with bursts of flowers. Merlin had not expected flowers to bloom in such cold weather. It must have taken a lot of effort to make them bloom.

Arriving in the drawing room, there was already a middle-aged man dressed in an aristocratic attire who was around the same age as Count Stanwin, waiting. Seeing Count Stanwin, he immediately stood up with a smile and said hoarsely, "Count Stanwin, welcome to my manor."

"Count Altadin, I've come to thank you for your help last time. This is my son, Leon."

Merlin stepped forward and saluted slightly, "Count Altadin."

Count Altadin's eyes brightened as he carefully looked at Merlin while Merlin was somewhat confused. Count Altadin was acting inconsistently with aristocratic manners.

He also looked at Count Altadin from the corner of his eye. The other party was slightly plump, with a mustache on his upper lip. His clothes were very neat and even his nails were neatly trimmed. He seemed to be an aristocrat who paid great attention to his own image.

"Leon, this is the first time I've met you. You're very much like the Count Stanwin of the past."

Count Altadin's gaze seemed to have a deeper meaning.

"Baratha, this is Count Stanwin."

Merlin then saw a petite lady on one side of the hall. She wore a long white dress and had a round face, as beautiful as jade. She looked incredibly lovely.

"Count Stanwin."

Baratha bowed slightly and then looked at Merlin, which was rather bold.

"Good, Baratha has grown up well. I remember when I saw her more than ten years ago, she was just a little girl."

Count Stanwin said emotionally but there was a smile on his face. Count Altadin also nodded secretly.

Seeing this, Merlin finally felt that something was wrong.

"Father, did you bring me here to meet Baratha?"

How could Merlin still be ignorant of the Count Stanwin and Count Altadin's meaning? The purpose of their visit was supposedly to visit Count Altadin but it was to let Baratha and Merlin meet each other.

Merlin was somewhat helpless. No matter if he was in the Void Zone or the Almighty Beast World, some problems could not be gotten rid of.

Then, Count Stanwin chatted with Count Altadin, and talked about the recent situation of the Holy Dragon Empire.

"The situation in the Holy Dragon Empire isn't good. Many nobles have given up their territories and came to the Holy Dragon City. They regard this as the final place to take refuge."

Count Altadin felt very helpless as he mentioned this.

Count Stanwin and Merlin were the same. They gave up their territories and escaped to the Holy Dragon City. After all, the Holy Dragon City had the suppression of the legendary sacred beast Regulus' skull. Even if the Holy Dragon Empire began to fall into chaos, the Holy Dragon City would be very safe.

Therefore, many nobles regarded the Holy Dragon City as their first choice of refuge.

"Hasn't the royal family done anything at present?"

Count Stanwin asked in a heavy voice.

"What can the royal family do? The royal family has far less control than it had hundreds of years ago. Some nobles don't even obey the royal family's orders anymore. The royal family's influence is still very strong in the Holy Dragon City. However, outside the city, their influence is even less than that of the nobles in some territories."

Count Altadin seemed to be very concerned and helpless about the situation in the Holy Dragon Empire. The weakening of the royal family was the root cause of the chaos in the Holy Dragon Empire.

However, the decline of the royal family was due to the thin bloodline of the royal family and the absence of descendants with a strong Regulus bloodline. As a result, the entire Holy Dragon Empire had started to collapse.

Just as Count Altadin was feeling helpless, Count Stanwin suddenly stood up. His entire body immediately began to morph as he snorted coldly, "Who's there?"

"Bang."

Count Altadin's dressing room door crashed into pieces following a loud noise. The entire manor seemed to be shaking.

Chapter 938: Ambush

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

Without anyone noticing, several strange men in black appeared in the shadows under the trees outside Count Altadin's manor.

"Sir Pero, everything is ready but something happened."

The man in the middle called "Sir Pero" was a burly man with dark skin. He looked rather fierce with a huge earring in his ear.

"Earlier, a carriage arrived outside the manor. It seems that an aristocrat has come to visit Count Altadin."

"An aristocrat?"

Pero frowned. They had painstakingly lurked in the Holy Dragon City for the sake of the Bead of Infamy in Count Altadin's hands, which General Mungus had always yearned for. If they were not successful this time, they no longer needed to run go back. Instead, they should just run for their lives. Otherwise, they would surely be executed by General Mungus.

"Maybe it's just some friends of Count Altadin. They shouldn't be much trouble. We need to hurry. After all, this is the Holy Dragon City. If the royal guards find us, we won't be able to leave the city."

Pero understood clearly. Although the Holy Dragon Empire was full of confusion now, in the Holy Dragon City, the royal family still did not allow the provocation of anyone. In the Holy Dragon City, the real master was the royal family.

Pero took a deep breath as a determined glint flashed in his eyes, and commanded, "Now!"

Immediately, the shadows dived into the manor.

…

"Who's there?"

Following Count Stanwin's shout, the gate of the hall crashed into pieces, and several giant spiders appeared in the hall.

"Haha, Count Altadin, hand over the Bead of Infamy or all of you will die!"

These giant spiders were third-form shifters. The man who was leading them had reached the fourth-form and was blocking the entrance of the hall while staring at Count Altadin coldly.

"The Bead of Infamy? Who are you? How do you know about the Bead of Infamy?"

Count Altadin's face paled. The treasure his family passed down had been found out.

"We work under General Mungus. The Bead of Infamy is wasted in your worthless hands. If you dedicate it to our General Mungus, we'll spare your lives."

Hearing what the shifter said, Count Stanwin's expression became solemn. General Mungus was one of the most powerful leaders of those rebelling against the Holy Dragon Empire. He was a powerful Host that had become a full-shifter, and was extremely terrifying.

Count Altadin looked pale. He could not shift, and had neither an almighty beast bloodline nor the courage to become a Host. Therefore, in the face of Mungus' men, his heart was already in despair.

However, the Bead of Infamy was a treasure passed down in Altadin's family, and must not be handed over to these people.

"You're quite bold to sneak into the Holy Dragon City. When the royal family finds out, will you be able to escape?"

Count Stanwin shouted, and took a step forward to protect Count Altadin.

Perot frowned and sneered. "What's so scary about the Holy Dragon City? Even the Regulus enchantment set up by the royal family is only a strong obstruction to shifters. We aren't full-shifters, so it's easy to get into the Holy Dragon City. Unfortunately, you two are here today. Today is the day you die. Don't let anyone escape! Kill!"

Pero saw that Count Altadin did not intend to hand over the Bead of Infamy, and did not waste any more time. He led the five shifters and lunged toward Count Altadin.

"Roar…"

Suddenly, Count Stanwin began to morph. He grew more than five meters tall and was covered with blood-red scales, and his limbs contained terrifying power.

The ferocious aura spread around. This was the fourth-form of the Deinosuchus bloodline. At this time, the huge pressure shrouded the men in black.

"The Deinosuchus bloodline?"

A few of the men were surprised. The Deinosuchus bloodline belonged to a mid-tier almighty beast bloodline and was extremely strong. Even they had heard of it before.

Count Stanwin was not courteous at all. His huge body rushed forward and his stubby tail swung hard.

"Bang."

The stout and powerful tail swept a man dressed in black in front of him. Although the other party was also a shifter, before a fourth-form shifter like Count Stanwin, he was completely defeated and beaten directly to the ground into a bloody pulp.

With one move, one of the third-form shifters died. However, besides the men in black, even Merlin felt extremely surprised.

This was the strength of a mid-tier almighty beast bloodline!

However, it was not over. Count Stanwin, in the form of a Deinosuchus, rushed forward with great power, and the fourth-form man in black was also sent flying.

Like that, one was dead and one was injured. The remaining three men in black all looked at each other but did not dare to attack.

"D*mn it, it's a fourth-form shifter! The two of us will stop the Deinosuchus while the last one catches Count Altadin and force him to hand over the Bead of Infamy. If we don't get the Bead of Infamy this time, we'll all die!"

Pero, the leader, gnashed his teeth as he spoke. They were sent by General Mungus this time for one purpose only, and could only succeed. If they failed, they would die.

"Swoosh swoosh swoosh."

Pero and the two other men in black morphed into giant spiders. In terms of strength, they were far inferior to Count Stanwin but they used their white silk thread.

These silk threads were extremely tough and firm. They shot at Count Stanwin from all directions. However, Count Stanwin could not dodge them all as he was not swift enough. Soon, he was bound firmly.

Despite Count Stanwin's strength and constant struggle, it was impossible to escape in a short amount of time. At that moment, both sides were in a deadlock.

The remaining man in black rushed toward Count Altadin and spat out a white silk thread, ready to capture him.

Count Altadin's face went white. Beside him, Baratha was also pale and bit her lips. Although she was acting strong now, she could do nothing in the face of a third-form shifter.

Merlin took a deep breath. He knew that he had to expose his hands at this time, otherwise, Count Altadin and Baratha would be captured.

"Shift!"

Black fur rapidly began to grow all over Merlin's body. His hands turned into sharp claws and his height soared to nearly two meters. Immediately, his entire body was filled with powerful strength.

"Swoosh."

Merlin put force in his legs and his speed reached the limit. The entire hall could only see a black figure flashing by before appearing in front of Count Altadin before the man in black did.

"Go!"

Merlin grabbed Count Altadin and Baratha in each hand and rushed to the outside of the hall. Although he was pulling them along, his speed was still terrifying as he rushed out of the hall in the blink of an eye.

Chapter 939: Bead of Infamy I

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

"What? There's still an almighty beast bloodline? How fast!"

The man in black was shocked. He did not even see the figure, and lost sight of Count Altadin's presence. He did not manage to see who had acted.

However, their goal this time was Count Altadin, so they naturally would not give up easily. The man in black quickly jumped, and directly rushed out of the hall.

"Swoosh."

Outside the hall, Merlin showed himself. By his side, his left and right hands grabbed one person each. Currently, after shapeshifting, it was easy to grab two people.

However, Count Altadin was shocked and almost lost his voice, and said, "Leon, I thought you didn't inherit the Deinosuchus bloodline? No, this isn't the Deinosuchus bloodline. Could it be…?"

Count Altadin seemed to think of a possibility as his expression turned odd.

Merlin also knew that he could not hide it anymore, and nodded, "Yes, I'm a Host!"

"A Host!!!"

Count Altadin shivered as his eyes shined. Other aristocrats might only show respect from a distance toward Hosts, but Count Altadin was different. This was because Count Altadin's ancestor was a powerful Host who left behind the treasure known as the Bead of Infamy.

"Stay here. I'll deal with them."

Merlin's eyes darkened. He saw the morphed man in black rush out of the hall and knew that running away would not solve the problem. Besides, he was eager to test his abilities. After all, the man in black was a third-form shifter, and although Merlin was a Host, he was also a third-form shifter.

The time had come to test his real strength!

The man in black had shapeshifted into a ferocious-looking giant spider that gave others an oppressive feeling. However, Merlin knew that it was only a low-tier almighty beast bloodline. It was no match for his Two-headed Pterolycus, so he had nothing to fear.

"Hoo…"

Merlin did not hesitate. His figure turned into an afterimage as he charged toward the man in black.

Merlin's speed was so fast that he could not be seen with the naked eye. Although the man in black could not spot Merlin's exact location, his senses were very sharp, which allowed him to sense Merlin's general location.

From the body of the spider, the man in black viciously spit out strands of white silk that spread out, forming a large net and blocking Merlin's way forward.

No matter how fast Merlin was, he would not be able to escape the net. However, Merlin's Two-headed Pterolycus did not merely have speed. His figure stopped, and the glint of two claws flashed.

"Skrr-skrr-skrr."

The sharp wolf claws easily cut off the sturdy white silk and quickly approached the man in black. Immediately after the collision, the man became disadvantaged. Merlin's Two-headed Pterolycus' speed, coupled with the razor-sharp wolf claws, were extraordinary and impossible to defend against.

"Slash."

Merlin's sharp claws swiped viciously, and the man in black immediately let out a scream as one of his legs were chopped off. Their speed had been very fast, and the confrontation was over in a flash.

Merlin's strength gave him the advantage, and it was thanks to his Two-headed Pterolycus that he managed to restrain the other party. The man's spider form was a forbidden almighty beast bloodline, but in the face of Merlin's Two-headed Pterolycus and its speed and sharp claws, he did not stand a chance. He naturally was no match against Merlin.

In a battle between almighty beasts, if one's ability could be restrained, it would be a one-sided massacre. The current situation was very bad for the man in black.

A glint flashed in Merlin's eyes. He was not an ordinary young man but someone who stood on the top of a Latitude Cosmos. He had experienced countless battles, so how would he miss such an opportunity?

Seeing that the other party was injured, Merlin's speed exploded again. He instantly appeared in front of the man in black, and his claws glinted coldly in the light.

"Slash."

The sharp wolf claws cut off the man's head without any hindrance and blood immediately gushed out, filling the air with a pungent smell.

Merlin watched the man lying in a pool of blood. His beast form had been lifted. Although the man's current state looked very terrifying, Merlin was not fazed at all. He was still thinking about the gains and losses from the battle earlier.

The Two-headed Pterolycus' characteristics were its speed and sharp claws, so there was no problem when dealing with giant spiders like these. However, if he had to encounter Count Stanwin's Deinosuchus bloodline, which had terrifying defenses, even his claws would not work. At that time, Merlin would be helpless.

The Two-headed Pterolycus had its advantages, but its disadvantages were also obvious. However, this was also a common failing of low-tier almighty beasts. They were doomed to have many weaknesses, and unable to reach the point of perfection.

"Leon, how's Count Stanwin?"

Count Altadin also calmed down and expressed worry for Count Stanwin who was in the hall.

Merlin smiled and said, "Father should be fine."

Merlin's foresight was good. The three men were only able to temporarily pin down his father. They were naturally no match for Count Stanwin in the long run.

"Boom."

Just as Merlin finished speaking, the entire manor seemed to shake. Then, the wall of the hall was blown into pieces. A few figures flew out from the rubble and fell heavily to the ground. It was the three other men in black.

However, at this moment, the three men looked miserable. Although they were not dead, they were seriously injured and could not even stand properly.

"Swoosh."

The giant Deinosuchus slowly walked out of the hall. Currently, Count Stanwin's body emitted a layer of blood-red light, increasing his might.

"Everything's fine now. Capture those three and interrogate them thoroughly."

Count Stanwin said in a low voice. He had not killed them so he could interrogate them properly.

"There's no need. Just kill them!"

Count Altadin had already called his guards. With a wave of his hand, the guards swiftly stepped forward and killed the three men.

Count Altadin's actions greatly stunned Count Stanwin. He did not understand why Count Altadin wanted to kill them.

"Count Stanwin, Leon, you have my thanks. If it weren't for you, I'm afraid that a river of blood would have started to flow in my manor."

Now that Count Altadin thought about it, he felt some fear. Ultimately, it was because no one in his family inherited an almighty beast bloodline. As for being a Host, it was also incredibly risky. Count Altadin did not have the courage to become a Host, which led to such a catastrophe today.

After hesitating for a moment, Count Altadin seemed to have decided and said, "Count Stanwin, Leon, these men were Mungus' subordinates. I believe you're also very curious about the Bead of Infamy they were after. Please come with me. This is the greatest secret of my Leicester clan."

Count Stanwin and Merlin cast a glance at each other. They were indeed curious about the Bead of Infamy. It must be extraordinary if Mungus would send his men all this way to rob it.

Since Count Altadin was willing to tell them, they followed behind him and entered the hall.

Chapter 940: The Bead of Infamy II

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

The guards in the hall withdrew, leaving just Count Stanwin, Merlin, and Count Altadin's daughter, Baratha. The atmosphere was solemn.

"Count Stanwin, these people had come after the Leicester clan's greatest secret – the Bead of Infamy! The noble progenitor of our Leicester clan was a full-shifting Host with powerful capabilities. Back then, he had accompanied the royal family in establishing the Holy Dragon Empire. Moreover, he was dubbed with the highest title of duke. It's a shame that in so many years, no one else in the clan had an exceptional almighty beast bloodline. As for some ancestors who'd chosen parasitism, they had failed and died. Therefore, our title dwindled bit by bit, becoming the current countship.

"As for the Bead of Infamy – back when our progenitor was powerful, he purposefully gathered some almighty beasts' wills from various dangerous places. Some of these almighty beasts' wills are terrifying, which became an inherited treasure in our Leicester clan. However, the later generations did not succeed in parasitism. Even if they did, they soon died, overwhelmed by the almighty beast's will. As for myself, I didn't have the courage to become a Host. By now, my Leicester clan suffers from a lack of heirs – I only have my daughter, Baratha. The Bead of Infamy is now in Mungus' sight. I believe he'll send more people to seize it. I'm far from being able to save this Bead of Infamy. Therefore, Count Stanwin, I have a request."

With that, Count Altadin looked toward Merlin meaningfully.

Count Stanwin had already guessed where Count Altadin was going, and he glanced at Merlin too.

"Leon, would you be willing to marry Baratha? Earlier, I've seen that you're a Host, and your almighty beast's will must be a Two-headed Pterolycus. Although this almighty beast isn't too shabby, it's ultimately a low-tier almighty beast with limited potential. Our Leicester clan's Bead of Infamy has even sealed in a high-tier almighty beast's will, which had parasitized our ancestors once. Naturally, its potential far exceeds the Two-headed Pterolycus. If you're willing to marry Baratha, I'll pass on the Bead of Infamy to you, and you may select any almighty beast's will within the Bead of Infamy to parasitize you as you wish. Provided that, in the future, one of the children born by you and Baratha will become the heir of my Leicester clan."

Indeed, Count Altadin had intended for Baratha to see Merlin for herself. Furthermore, after Merlin had exposed his strength and his identity as a Host, Count Altadin was even more pleased with Merlin.

A treasure like the Bead of Infamy was an incredible temptation for a Host, nearly irresistible. Merlin knew that it would be difficult to look for more powerful almighty beasts' wills in other places. Otherwise, if an almighty beast's will was so easily found, then the full-shifter General Mungus would not have his heart set on the Bead of Infamy.

"Any thoughts, Count Stanwin?"

Count Altadin then immediately took out a black, opaque bead that did not look special. Nonetheless, Merlin could detect bursts of astonishing, berserk wills, which must be the almighty beasts' wills sealed within.

These almighty beasts' wills could be sealed, many of which were mid-tier or even high-tier almighty beasts' wills. That progenitor of Count Altadin's clan was truly impressive. He must have far surpassed most full-shifters.

Still, Count Stanwin cast his gaze at Merlin, asking softly, "Leon, what do you think?"

Merlin was indeed tempted about the Bead of Infamy. After all, it was challenging for him to locate other, more formidable almighty beasts' wills, just as it was challenging to search for other Nourishment Pond formulas.

Although Curator Heroult seemed enigmatic, he must have plenty of almighty beasts' wills. Heroult had even promised that if Merlin followed him to Holy Dragon City, he would give Merlin a mid-tier almighty beast's will to parasitize Merlin.

Nevertheless, even the almighty beasts' wills that Heroult possessed might not measure up to the almighty beasts' wills sealed within this Bead of Infamy.

However, Merlin thought about Lady Reese, the fiancée he was engaged to as soon as he came to the Almighty Beast World.

"Count Altadin, I already have a fiancée."

Merlin only spoke after a long moment. On one side, Baratha's face stiffened slightly as she wrung her dainty hands, appearing rather nervous.

Count Stanwin knitted his brow. He was not too concerned about Reese. Among the aristocrats, having a few women were not a big deal. Although Merlin and Reese had gotten engaged before the aristocrats of Boulder City, the city had fallen to the enemy by now. Count Stanwin had lost his territory, with Reese following them to Holy Dragon City.

"Haha, Count Stanwin had mentioned this to me long before. Leon, I know that you have a fiancée but as an aristocrat, what are a few more wives? Moreover, Baratha won't take issue with this."

Count Altadin felt that Merlin's fiancée was no great obstacle.

Merlin appeared rather hesitant. In his previous life, he did not share much affection with two women. Now, in the Almighty Beast World, he had to go through the same scenario.

"Leon, I'll personally talk to Lady Reese. She won't mind."

Count Stanwin spoke at last. He was very pleased with Baratha, but he was even happier that Count Altadin was willing to hand over the Bead of Infamy. This was an inherited treasure of the Leicester clan, which was very precious. Even the full-shifter General Mungus would stop at nothing to get this bead.

If Leon could obtain this Bead of Infamy, this would undoubtedly be an immense help for Leon's parasitism.

Seeing that Merlin was still bewildered and uncertain, Count Stanwin said immediately, "Alright, Leon. We'll do this then!"

Marriage between aristocrats was sometimes this simple. Count Altadin needed someone powerful to support the entire Leicester clan while Count Stanwin needed the backing of a reliable ally in Holy Dragon City. Only then could he establish himself.

Everyone got what they wanted. As for Merlin, he would benefit as well. In the eyes of aristocrats, feelings were not worth a mention, as long as one remained loyal to one's clan.

As if to express his sincerity, and also because he seemed fond of Merlin, Count Altadin gave the Bead of Infamy to Merlin in a precursory manner.

"Let's pick a good day for Leon and Baratha to get married. I'll give this Bead of Infamy to Leon first. Still, I hope that before you're married, Leon, you won't switch your almighty beast's will."

Altadin's expression was rather somber. Though he did not choose parasitism, the Leicester clan's progenitor was a formidable full-shifting Host. Thus, he had an unparalleled understanding of parasitism.

He knew about the dangers that plagued a Host. One might die at any moment. In particular, changing to host a different almighty beast's will was a matter of both risk and luck. If Merlin got married first, he could still leave behind an heir.

To aristocrats, the lineage of their bloodline was always the most important aspect. All other matters could be set aside first.

Chapter 941: The Three-layered Subspace

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

A carriage sped along the wide street. Within the carriage, Merlin started to speak but hesitated. After a long while, he could not help but ask, "Father, just now when we were in the manor, those subordinates of General Mungus could easily sneak into the Holy Dragon City? Shouldn't it be that, since the royal family is the ruler of the Holy Dragon City, the armed rebellion would find it hard to breach this place?"

Merlin had thought that the Holy Dragon City was initially very secure, but at that moment, it looked like that was not the case. Those people were able to easily infiltrate the Holy Dragon City. What safety was there to speak of?

Count Stanwin looked at Merlin and seemed rather pleased. He felt that ever since they left Boulder City, Merlin had transformed significantly and no longer as "naïve" as he used to be. Now, he was able to support an entire clan.

Although Merlin was under constant potential danger due to his parasitism, this transformation still delighted Count Stanwin very much.

Thus, Count Stanwin explained in a low voice, "The royal family still has tremendous influence in the Holy Dragon City. It's impossible for other rebellion forces to infiltrate the Holy Dragon City. However, the Holy Dragon City's measures seem to only target contenders who are full-shifters. If anyone at that level enters the Holy Dragon City, the royal family would know at once. Moreover, even if there's only one head of the Sacred Lion Beast left, it still possesses a frightening might. Those contenders who are full-shifters or higher won't dare to enter the Holy Dragon City. As for those below the level of full-shifters, what use would they be even if more of them came in?"

Count Stanwin explained everything clearly and Merlin wore an expression of sudden realization. It turned out that the Holy Dragon City only targeted those who are full-shifters or higher.

Contenders like these, after shapeshifting and wantonly causing destruction, could easily destroy a city. Thus, they posed the greatest threat. As for those below full-shifters, they were not much of a threat toward the royal family even if more of them came in. All that was needed was a little control. The royal family's greatest strength did not need to be mobilized.

As a result, Mungus' men were able to stealthily infiltrate the Holy Dragon City.

"Leon, I've put you out. If you really don't wish to marry Baratha, then return the Bead of Infamy. I'll handle Count Altadin."

After a moment of silent thought, Count Stanwin spoke in discursive tones. At that point, he treated Merlin as an equal. Merlin was no longer the youth of the past that needed protection.

Merlin looked up and smiled as he said, "How am I put out? Baratha is very pretty, and I think Lady Reese is sure to agree. Of course, Father will have to explain to her."

To Merlin, whether it was in the Void Zone or the Almighty Beast World, he had never felt much sentiment towards women. What he sought was the path to power, in order to surpass the Latitude Cosmos. The feelings between men and women were merely a passing memory of a few decades to him.

Moreover, he could sense the wildly snarling almighty beasts' will within this Bead of Infamy. Merlin could not bear to return it.

"Haha, as long as you're willing. When we return to the manor, I'll begin preparations for your wedding, selecting a good day for the wedding between you and Reese, and Baratha too. Then we may quickly continue the bloodline of our Hilderbrandt clan."

Count Stanwin seemed to be satisfied. Previously, he had only planned for Leon to live a peaceful life. Although he would pass on his countship, Count Stanwin never considered passing on the heavy responsibilities of the clan.

However, after Merlin was parasitized, he seemed to have transformed suddenly. The burdens of the clan could be handed over to Merlin. In this regard, Count Stanwin naturally felt very satisfied.

His only regret was that Merlin was a Host, liable to be devoured by the almighty beast's will at any time. This was the common plight of all Hosts.

…

After returning to the Manor, Merlin did not bother with matters of the wedding. He pushed everything else to one side. Count Stanwin was there to worry about the wedding.

Later, Merlin instantly headed to the basement after a brief discussion with Count Stanwin. In this crude laboratory, the Nourishment Pond was still left with a moss green liquid. Still, Merlin knew that this water was no longer useful. He had to create the formula again.

Nonetheless, the number of gold coins Merlin currently possessed was insufficient to purchase the ingredients for another batch of Hermani formula.

Merlin had gone into the laboratory to inspect the Bead of Infamy he recently received. At first, he did not sense much, but after placing the Bead of Infamy on his skin, Merlin's keen senses could detect the terrifying almighty beasts' will within the Bead of Infamy that was roaring constantly.

"What powerful almighty beasts' will! As expected of the various almighty beasts' will collected by the full-shifting progenitor of the Leicester clan."

Even though Merlin had not actually merged with these almighty beasts' will, he could sense their immense power.

"I'll go in for a look first."

Merlin followed Count Altadin's instructions and began to focus his will into the Bead of Infamy. After a moment, his consciousness was even in an occasional numbness.

"Boom."

His consciousness had entered an indescribable subspace, which was pitch-dark all over. It must be the subspace within the Bead of Infamy.

Moreover, as Merlin's consciousness went in, a detailed introduction of the Bead of Infamy's characteristics swiftly surfaced in Merlin's mind.

It turned out that the Bead of Infamy was divided into three layers of subspace. The first layer contained the low-tier almighty beasts' will, while the second layer contained mid-tier almighty beasts' will.

As for the third and final layer, the sole high-tier almighty beast's will was sealed within. This high-tier of almighty beast's will was the same almighty beast bloodline that parasitized the progenitor of the Leicester clan.

"There's actually subspace-type treasures used to seal almighty beasts' will. It looks like this world isn't as simple as I thought. Those full-shifters and those beyond that level have more the just frightening destructive power."

Merlin stared at this subspace. Although it could only accommodate his consciousness, it was wondrous enough. After all, this world was not stronger than the Void Zone. It was rare for a subspace-type treasure like this to show up.

At a single thought from Merlin, his consciousness immediately drifted to the first layer in the Bead of Infamy. As soon as he went in, Merlin could hear the roaring of countless almighty beasts reverberating in his ears incessantly.

If he was an average person, his consciousness would be dazzled and he would have to exit the Bead of Infamy. Nevertheless, Merlin paid no attention to the snarling of these low-tier almighty beasts' will.

"Three-headed Dog? Green-patterned Python and the Gray-feathered Roc? Indeed, these are all the low-tier almighty beasts' will."

Merlin swept his consciousness over, finding that there were many low-tier almighty beasts' will in this subspace. Some of them were not inferior to his Two-headed Pterolycus in the slightest or were even more exceptional.

Being able to seal in so many low-tier almighty beasts' will, this Bead of Infamy's value to Hosts was practically incalculable.

However, Merlin was not that interested in the will of these low-tier almighty beasts, which was certain to have limited potential. Even at their limits, as Heroult pointed out, they were not that powerful.

Following that, Merlin resolutely stepped into the second layer subspace of the Bead of Infamy. Here, the number of almighty beasts' will were evidently fewer in number. In total, there were only eighteen almighty beasts' will.

When these will noticed the presence of Merlin's consciousness, they immediately erupted furiously. The onslaught from these will could even tear apart the consciousness of an ordinary person.

Therefore, Count Altadin reminded him not to simply enter the Bead of Infamy.

"Purple-eyed Polar Bear, Nightjar King… these are all powerful mid-tier almighty beasts. Some of the outstanding ones are even mightier than the Deinosuchus bloodline!"

Merlin was somewhat tempted. If he had not obtained the Bead of Infamy, any one of the almighty beasts' will within the second layer subspace would tempt Merlin because these all far surpassed the potential of the Two-headed Pterolycus.

Still, Merlin knew that there was a sealed third layer subspace, within which the will of a high-tier almighty beast. This was Merlin's true target.

"High-tier almighty beast… Even in the whole Holy Dragon Empire, those who possessed a high-tier almighty beast bloodline could be counted on one's fingers!"

Merlin's spirits soared. The high-tier almighty beast was definitely a dominant almighty beast within the Almighty Beast World.

"If one doesn't have a powerful will, entry to the third layer of the Bead of Infamy is forbidden!"

Just as Merlin was about to enter the third layer subspace, this message flashed across his mind. This must have been left behind by the progenitor of the Leicester clan.

This meant that the third layer subspace might very well contain great danger.

High-tier almighty beasts were distinct from mid-tier and low-tier almighty beasts. Even if it was just a will, it would be very fearsome.

However, Merlin did not care. After detecting the third layer subspace, his consciousness immediately drifted in.

Chapter 942: The Vipera Dragon Class

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

"Boom."

As soon as Merlin drifted into the third layer subspace, blood-red light filled his vision. It was as if his consciousness was about to be ripped apart by an immense force.

Nonetheless, Merlin's consciousness was unlike an ordinary person's. This bit of power was naturally unable to cause his consciousness any harm. Therefore, he inspected with his consciousness and soon discovered that this crimson subspace only contained one colossal will.

"Someone has finally come in and with a decent consciousness too. It's just a shame that it's a tiny fellow who's selected to merge with a puny Two-headed Pterolycus. With such a lowly bloodline, I, the great Blood-eye Dragon, won't follow you!"

A deafening voice sounded in Merlin's ears which rumbled unceasingly and was filled with a tyrannical presence.

This was the high-tier almighty beast's will that was sealed within the third layer subspace – the Blood-eye Dragon!

The Blood-eye Dragon was a high-tier almighty beast. It had been a terrifying and formidable almighty beast, even in ancient times when almighty beasts ran amok. Furthermore, the Blood-eye Dragon had an obvious, unique advantage; it belonged to the Vipera Dragons class.

Vipera Dragons were descendants of the legendary Sacred Dragon, only their bloodline was thinner. Moreover, they had cross-bred with other almighty beasts. Naturally, their strength was far inferior to the legendary Sacred Dragon.

Nonetheless, they were still Vipera Dragons and possessed a trace of the Sacred Dragon's bloodline. Apparently, if one could stimulate a Vipera Dragon's bloodline to its limits, they might unleash the true Sacred Dragon bloodline.

Of course, myths were just myths. Sacred beasts were mythic beings in the first place. Who could actually possess the power of sacred beasts? This Blood-eye Dragon itself was already extraordinary enough. Even if only its will was left, it was still equipped with such immense strength. Furthermore, it maintained an intellect on par with an average person. Merlin was somewhat amazed.

"Blood-eye Dragon, a high-tier almighty beast's will. What, you don't wish to parasitize my body?" Merlin answered with a laugh.

This was not up to the Blood-eye Dragon. Perhaps others might be unable to handle the Blood-eye Dragon's will but Merlin had the Illusory World and powerful Mind Power. Only the will of the Blood-eye Dragon remained. To Merlin, this was no threat at all.

"For you to choose a mere Two-headed Pterolycus, you evidently possess no willpower nor intelligence. If I choose to parasitize you, won't I be forever unable to recover my peak strength? If that's the case, I'd rather stay sealed in this Bead of Infamy. Go away, I won't choose to parasitize your body. If you continue disturbing my sleep, I'll swallow your consciousness and turn you into an idiot!"

This Blood-eye Dragon's will was rather vicious and already started to threaten Merlin.

Merlin only gave a careless smile and did not take the Blood-eye Dragon's threat to heart. Still, he did not stay on in the Bead of Infamy and retracted his consciousness.

It was not that Merlin did not wish to immediately switch the Two-headed Pterolycus's will for the Blood-eye Dragon. One was a mere low-tier almighty beast's will, the other was a lofty, incomparably powerful high-tier almighty beast's will. It was also a Vipera Dragon that was a preeminent existence even amongst high-tier almighty beasts.

Nevertheless, Merlin could not switch his almighty beast's will so easily at that point.

In truth, Hosts had two methods in dealing with an almighty beast's will. The first was, they could switch immediately upon locating a stronger almighty beast's will. Even so, they must start from the beginning, slowly progressing from the first-form onwards.

This would take up vast amounts of resources which was what Merlin lacked now. He knew that the Blood-eye Dragon's will was indeed formidable but for him to reach the first-form required more materials for the Nourishment Pond than what it would need to take to reach the Two-headed Pterolycus's fourth-form. With Merlin's current financial ability, he was incapable of creating this Nourishment Pond.

Even if he requested this from Count Stanwin, it would be limited. Hosts used up a lot of resources, especially with a powerful almighty beast's will. The resources needed for that was inconceivable.

Of course, there was the second method which was to merge the almighty beasts' wills together. In that manner, one would not need to slowly progress from the first-form onwards.

However, that required a powerful almighty beast's will as the primary will first. Only then could one slowly attempt to merge other almighty beasts' wills into the first one, inducing mutations.

At that moment, Merlin only had the Two-headed Pterolycus which definitely could not act as the primary will. Conversely, if he merged with the Blood-eye Dragon in the future, he could try using this method. Still, merging with other almighty beasts' will and slowly upgrading the almighty beast's will was extremely dangerous. It would take a long time, many attempts, and Merlin was still very far from this stage.

Therefore, what he could do now was to solve the issue of Nourishment Pond's materials. Merlin could only smoothly merge with the Blood-eye Dragon with abundant resources and then rapidly advance it to its first-form or even beyond that.

"It's impossible to earn enough money in a short time span. Even if I did, preparing the materials of the Nourishment Pond won't be cheap. I'd only be able to use the Nourishment Pond once or twice, which isn't much help."

Countless thoughts zipped past Merlin's mind. He had many ideas but rejected each of them.

Suddenly, Merlin recalled Curator Heroult who had helped him merge with the Two-headed Pterolycus back in Boulder City. Back then, Heroult asked Merlin to follow him into Holy Dragon City but Merlin refused.

After that, Heroult left only an address for Brews Castle, so that Merlin could look him up at any time.

"It looks like it's time to look for Heroult. With Brews Castle's address, it won't be hard to search."

Merlin made up his mind and immediately left the laboratory, then boarded the carriage. After finding out the specific location of Brews Castle, he directed the carriage straight to this destination.

…

A thin drizzle came down from the sky. The weather during the beginning of spring was still chilly. Raindrops felt icy as they landed on one's face.

A carriage slowly stopped before an ancient castle. Merlin slowly disembarked from the carriage and looked up at this castle.

This here was Brews Castle, a rather ancient castle. There were no guards outside, and a quick glance into the castle revealed no human figures.

Nonetheless, the lawn within was well maintained, proving that this was not an abandoned castle but one that had residents.

Merlin instructed the coach driver to wait outside. He removed his gloves and draped himself with a black cloak. After a moment of hesitation, he pushed the iron gate open straightaway and walked towards the castle's hall.

As soon as he entered the castle, Merlin detected an odd, unpleasant odor. Frowning, he looked upwards to the castle but discovered nothing out of the ordinary.

Soon, Merlin stood before the sturdy doors of the castle. Reaching out, he knocked sharply. The clear sound resounded within which sounded empty, giving him an eerie feeling.

"Creak."

Under Merlin's attentive gaze, the castle's doors were slowly opened from within.

Chapter 943: Meeting Heroult Again

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

An old man with grizzled hair opened the door. When he saw Merlin, a puzzled look crossed his face as he asked softly, "Who are you looking for?"

"May I ask if Heroult stays here? I'm Mr. Heroult's friend. My name is Leon. I believe Mr. Heroult knows me."

Merlin declared his identity. This unfamiliar old man sized Merlin up and then said, "Please hold on a moment. I'll ask for Sir Heroult."

It looked like this Heroult had quite a status. After all, though this castle was relatively old, it was naturally quite impressive to own such a massive castle in the Holy Dragon City where land prices were steep.

After a moment, a booming laugh came from within the castle. "Haha, is that Master Leon? You've actually come to the Holy Dragon City."

The doors opened. Heroult had changed into aristocratic apparel, exuding a noble, graceful temperament. This was not something most aristocrats could pull off. Even Count Stanwin did not have such a presence because this required an aristocratic clan with centuries of consolidation.

Heroult was always mysterious. Back in Boulder City, he had only opened the Fossil Museum, which was really strange. He had meticulous plans and was not just some aristocratic wastrel.

"Curator Heroult, we meet again!"

Although many thoughts flashed across Merlin's mind, he still remained outwardly calm.

"Master Leon, let's go in and talk."

Heroult invited Merlin into the living room, then examined Merlin all over. There was a strange glint in his eyes as he said quietly, "Not long ago, I had gotten word that Marshal Kerry was defeated by the Blackbat Militia and the barbarian tribe, and Boulder City had fallen to the Blackbat Militia. I was even worried about you, Master Leon but didn't expect that you had already arrived at the Holy Dragon City. I wonder, what is the purpose of you paying me a visit?"

Heroult was vaguely expectant, even impatient. He had been waiting for Merlin's news. After all, Merlin was a rare Host, one whose parasitism Heroult had carried out successfully. Although Heroult had obtained his data already, as someone who studied Hosts, this data was far from enough.

Merlin contemplated silently, then suddenly stood up. Since he wanted to obtain the formula and resources for the Nourishment Pond from Heroult, Heroult would discover that he had become a third-form shifter sooner or later. Merlin might as well tell Heroult first. He could even tempt Heroult more.

After all, a Host who was a first-form shifter could not be placed on par with a third-form shifter no matter what. Many people had succeeded in parasitism in the beginning, but as the shifter grew stronger, the almighty beast's will grew more powerful too. Ultimately, when they reached the second or third-form, they died from the repercussion of the almighty beast's will.

However, Merlin was now standing there within the hall in a healthy condition. Just this aspect alone was enough to fascinate Heroult.

"Swish."

Merlin rapidly shapeshifted. The aristocratic clothes he wore were torn apart as his frame enlarged swiftly. At last, he was no less than two meters tall. Furthermore, other than his upper body and his head, all parts of him were covered in a thick layer of black fur. His body had turned into a gigantic wolf.

"Third-form shifter?"

Heroult appeared astounded and almost shouted himself hoarse. It had only been a few months since he left Boulder City. Plus, Merlin was a Host who could be in danger at any time, yet he had become a third-form shifter. This was a terrifying pace of progress.

"That's right, a third-form shifter!"

Merlin slowly resumed his original appearance, only his upper half was naked, which was somewhat awkward. Heroult waved one hand and commanded someone to bring Merlin a set of clothes.

After a long while, Heroult slowly spoke, "You've obtained the Nourishment Pond formula?"

Hosts could only rely on Nourishment Ponds to improve their strength. Therefore, Heroult immediately caught onto the key point, which was that Merlin had obtained the Nourishment Pond formula.

"That's right, Curator Heroult. Don't forget that my father is a formidable peak fourth-form shifter! Although it wasn't easy to obtain this Nourishment Pond formula, it wasn't too difficult either."

Heroult nodded. Even though he had faith in his own abilities, he was still apprehensive towards Merlin's father Count Stanwin. The Deinosuchus bloodline was a mid-tier bloodline. To be able to cultivate this to the peak of the fourth-form shifter, one could be considered a contender at any place.

"Since you already have the Nourishment Pond formula, why have you come here today?"

Heroult initially thought that Merlin had come for the Nourishment Pond formula. After all, a Host would find it hard to advance without the Nourishment Pond. However, Heroult was somewhat at a loss now.

Merlin did not conceal his intentions and replied directly, "Who would complain about too many Nourishment Pond formulas? Moreover, the Nourishment Pond formula I have will eventually become ineffective. At that point, Mr. Heroult's Nourishment Pond formula would be extremely valuable. Plus, the materials of the Nourishment Pond formula aren't something everyone can afford."

Heroult was momentarily taken aback before he burst into loud laughter.

"Haha, not bad, not bad. Who would complain about too many Nourishment Pond formulas? Furthermore, the Holy Dragon Empire is in chaos everywhere now. Some of the traders' supplies are affected too. Thus, some materials of the Nourishment Pond formula are extremely costly. In addition, Master Leon, you should know by now that for a Host to increase their strength, the required materials for the Nourishment Pond alone are not something most aristocrats can afford by far."

Heroult already understood Merlin's intentions. In fact, he had come for the Nourishment Pond formula indeed. More importantly, however, was that Merlin had no way of obtaining more of those expensive materials for the Nourishment Pond formula.

Heroult knew full well of the material's costliness. Fortunately, he had special means and the problem of the materials was resolved long ago. He had his own reasons for devoting himself to researching Hosts.

Although Heroult was secretive and mysterious, Merlin could generally sense that Heroult was a contender with an almighty beast bloodline. His capabilities were probably not inferior to Count Stanwin, and he must have become a fourth-form shifter already.

However, this was seemingly Heroult's limit. It was nearly impossible for him to progress further with his almighty beast bloodline and break through this point. The peak of fourth-form shifting was his limit.

Therefore, Heroult might only have hope through the parasitism of an almighty beast's will. Nonetheless, being a Host was too dangerous, so Heroult wanted to study other Hosts thoroughly. He set a solid foundation for when he would use the parasitism of an almighty beast's will to break through to a full-shifting form.

Both of their needs were not in conflict.

"Master Leon, I can give you the Nourishment Pond formula, and I can even prepare the relevant materials for you, provided that you stay here under my study at each and every moment, so that I may record the data of a Host. All that you require shall be fulfilled!"

Now Heroult wished to know, how was Merlin still able to withstand the repercussion of the almighty beast's will despite becoming a third-form shifter.

Merlin was actually rather shocked. Heroult was talking big indeed. These materials were not that simple; they were very expensive and supplies were limited. Heroult actually promised this right away. If this was real, this meant that Heroult was supported by a massive organization.

Still, this suited Merlin's plans just fine.

"Only for a month. You can't possibly study me forever. One month and you'll prepare ten batches of the materials I need. Moreover, you must hand over your Nourishment Pond formula and prepare ten batches of materials for that as well. How's that?"

These were Merlin's conditions.

"So, twenty batches of materials in total. That's not a problem, but one month is too short. Three months at least!"

At this point, Heroult and Merlin started to haggle, finally settling on two months.

Within those two months, Merlin would allow Heroult to study him as he wished with no conditions except that Merlin was not harmed.

On the other hand, Heroult had to hand over a batch of materials after a period of time, until all twenty batches had been delivered in full.

Chapter 944: The Mercenary Group

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

It was already evening when Merlin returned to the manor.

The light pattering of rain still had not stopped completely. Light water drops wafted through the air and it was incomparably chilly. Upon Merlin's return, he found that Count Stanwin was not there. In this period, Count Stanwin was rushing around preparing for Merlin's wedding. Every day he would leave early and return late as if there were things to constantly keep him busy.

"The honorable count has returned."

After a while, a maid reported softly to Merlin. Soon, Count Stanwin came in from outside and looked travel-worn.

"Leon, preparations for your wedding are nearly complete. At first, I'd planned to hold the ceremony next month but during this time, the Deinosuchus Mercenary Group I've set up has received a huge gig, escorting a caravan for a long period. I'll only return after three months. Thus, after Count Altadin and I discussed the matter, we finally decided to wait half a year before holding the wedding ceremony for you and Baratha."

Once Count Stanwin entered the hall, he explained this to Merlin. It turned out that in this period, Count Stanwin had gone out early and returned late not just for Merlin's wedding but more for the sake of the mercenary group he had established.

In truth, although Count Stanwin had been an overlord with generous savings, he could not just spend his fortune without making any money. He still had three hundred heavy knights under him and due to the fact that this was not a small force, it was a huge responsibility.

Moreover, Count Stanwin could not possibly go into business. The various businesses of the Holy Dragon City were responsible for massive chambers of commerce. Ordinary people could not get involved at all.

As for serving the empire, that was out of the question. Currently, whether the whole Holy Dragon Empire could be preserved was a problem in itself. Even if he put in more effort, what territory would he gain?

Therefore, Count Stanwin only had one option which was to establish a mercenary group. Fortunately, he had three hundred heavy knights under him; and this was not a small force. Hence, under the leadership of a peak fourth-form shifter like Count Stanwin, the mercenary group became a formidable one upon its establishment.

This time, Count Stanwin had received a mission to escort a business guild's caravan that was going to pass through numerous cities in chaos. The rewards were high even though this would be dangerous.

These chambers of commerce urgently needed to ensure an unrestricted flow of supplies. Naturally, they would hire a mercenary group at a high price.

"I'll go along with everything you've arranged, Father."

Merlin knew that Count Stanwin had already prepared everything. Even though Count Stanwin had lost his territory, a mercenary group established with his capabilities was still a powerful one. As long as they did not encounter mighty existences who were full-shifters, there would not be much danger.

"Half a year it is then. Tomorrow, I'll be leading the heavy knights and leave the Holy Dragon City. Leon, all matters of the manor will be passed over to you from tomorrow onwards! I shall return in three months."

Count Stanwin was handing the authority over the whole manor to Merlin. If this was the previous Leon, Count Stanwin surely would not do such a thing but at that point, he was rather pleased with this current Leon. Slowly, he would pass on all matters of the clan to Merlin.

Merlin knew this well but he did not refuse. At that moment, Count Stanwin needed to be free from lingering worries.

"Father, rest assured. I'll carefully take care of manor's matters."

After Merlin promised, Count Stanwin was able to stop worrying at last.

…

Early morning the next day, the heavy knights of the manor followed Count Stanwin in exiting the Holy Dragon City. The entire manor appeared rather empty and desolate.

Merlin rode the carriage straight to Curator Heroult's residence, Brews Castle!

"Curator Heroult."

When Merlin entered Brews Castle, he saw that Curator Heroult was already waiting for him.

"Leon, you're finally here. Come along, we'll go straight to the laboratory. I cannot wait any longer."

Heroult did not hide his eagerness at all.

Merlin nodded. He did not know why Curator Heroult was so impatient but since he had come here, Merlin was already prepared for this long ago.

Thus, he followed Curator Heroult to the laboratory. This was a true laboratory that consisted of all the instruments and facilities a laboratory should have. Merlin's crude laboratory could not compare to this at all.

At the center, there was a gigantic Nourishment Pond. This was the same Nourishment Pond formula Merlin had used when he first started parasitism.

Curator Heroult did not give Merlin the Nourishment Pond formula right away. Only after a few days, he handed over the Nourishment Pond formula to Merlin, bit by bit. As for the materials, he would give Merlin a batch nearly every day after his research was completed.

"Alright, Leon, unleash your shifted form."

Heroult had to research a Host comprehensively. Therefore, the condition of a Host's shifted form was of utmost importance and required meticulous study.

Merlin obeyed Heroult's request and started to shapeshift. Thick black fur sprouted all over his body. The third-form of the Two-headed Pterolycus made Merlin feel very powerful.

After Merlin had demonstrated his shapeshifting, Heroult recorded some data changes in detail. It was not easy to encounter a Host like Merlin who could reach the third-form. This was the crucial reason Heroult could pay such a heavy price. If Merlin was merely at the first-form, Heroult would need to consider further but this was the third-form. Heroult had never studied a Host who was a third-form shifter.

In the laboratory, there were many apparatuses. Heroult recorded Merlin's physical condition in detail but the crucial issue of the almighty beast's will could not be measured. He could only have Merlin carefully describe the state of the almighty beast's will.

A Host's biggest fear was the backlash of the almighty beast's will. If one could solve the problem of this backlash, Hosts would hold a complete advantage, far surpassing those who inherited almighty beast bloodlines.

Time rushed by in a blur. Soon, it was evening. Heroult carried out his research for a full day and only stopped when he saw that the sky had gotten dark.

"Leon, not bad. A Host who's a third-form shifter is really far more valuable than a first-form Host. We still have two months, so I might actually gain a thorough understanding of a Host's shifted form and its various aspects. Today's research is about done. Here are the Nourishment Pond materials you need."

From the laboratory, Heroult immediately took out a batch of materials that Merlin needed for the Hermani Nourishment Pond formula. This was the first batch, with nine more to come. Heroult was keeping to his promise.

Of course, Heroult would not hand over his Nourishment Pond formula to Merlin for now. He would only give the Nourishment Pond formula to Merlin after some time.

After receiving this batch of materials for the Hermani Nourishment Pond formula, Merlin nodded slightly which indicated his satisfaction. Following that, he put on the clothes he prepared in advance and left Heroult's place.

Chapter 945: Phantom!

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

Back in the manor, Merlin inspected the Hermani formula that Heroult gave him.

There were more than two hundred types of materials. Merlin examined each one carefully. Indeed, they were materials for the Hermani Nourishment Pond formula. Merlin, who had brewed the Nourishment Pond himself before would not be mistaken.

These materials were all very costly. Merlin had even expressly made inquiries at some shops in the Holy Dragon City. Even if they emptied out their stock, they could put together a few batches at most. However, Heroult could hand over no less than ten batches.

This meant that Heroult had his own special channels since he was able to constantly obtain materials for the Nourishment Pond instead of having to purchase them from shops.

"I must gain control of these channels too."

Merlin secretly made this decision. Heroult was a mysterious figure who controlled channels that ordinary people, or even people with powerful almighty beast bloodlines, could not access. He was certainly someone extraordinary.

While Heroult urgently needed to study him, Merlin had to seize the chance to slowly uncover the secrets behind Heroult. Most importantly, he had to gain control over these channels of Nourishment Pond formula materials. These were Merlin's objectives.

After receiving one batch of materials for the Hermani Nourishment Pond formula, Merlin did not concoct the Nourishment Pond right away because it would not serve many purposes in doing so.

Merlin was currently a third-form shifter but his potential was limited. The Two-headed Pterolycus would be switched for something else soon enough. Thus, using these materials would be a total waste.

Nonetheless, Merlin could not change his almighty beast's will to the Blood-eye Dragon for now. After all, at that point, Heroult was still going to study him for two more months, so the fewer the people who knew about the Blood-eye Dragon, the better.

Therefore, Merlin had already made a plan. After the two months were up, he would change his almighty beast's will to the Blood-eye Dragon when he had received both the ten batches of Hermani Nourishment Pond materials, as well as Heroult's Nourishment Pond formula and materials.

With twenty full batches of Nourishment Pond materials, Merlin could rapidly increase the level of his shapeshifting even if he allowed the Blood-eye Dragon to parasitize him from scratch.

In the following month or so, Merlin's life was routine. He would wake up at first light and head to Heroult's castle and only come back in the evening. There were no exceptions.

However, some bad news was received during this period. Some important cities of the Holy Dragon Empire were subjugated and were completely taken over by armed rebellions.

Currently, only the Holy Dragon City was directly under the royal family's control within the Holy Dragon Empire. It seemed that the sun was setting over this empire. It was at its last gasp. At any time, when the Holy Dragon City had descended into chaos as well, the royal family's rule over the Holy Dragon Empire would be thoroughly terminated.

Nonetheless, all this had nothing to do with Merlin. He took care of the manor in an organized manner. Everything was calm. Even so, Merlin thought of finding out Heroult's true identity but had no clues. Heroult's identity was like a riddle.

Still, Heroult was able to hand over the materials for the Hermani Nourishment Pond formula each time. By now, Merlin had obtained all ten batches of the materials.

In the following twenty days or so, Heroult began to give to Merlin his Nourishment Pond formula along with ten batches of materials.

Today, as soon as Merlin entered Brews Castle, he felt that something was wrong.

This was because another stranger was in the castle. This was a lovely young woman with a full figure. Nevertheless, this young lady wore a grave expression and discussed something with Heroult in low tones.

After seeing Merlin come in, the young woman stopped talking and cast a blazing gaze as she sized up Merlin.

Heroult's expression was rather awkward. After he saw Merlin, he said quietly, "Leon, I'm afraid I'll have to go out for some time."

"If you're going out for some time, what about your Nourishment Pond formula and materials that I need?"

Merlin was somewhat surprised. However, he saw that this young woman seemed close to Heroult who also understood Heroult's research of Hosts very well. Therefore, Merlin had no apprehensions about directly expressing his concerns.

Heroult was silent for a moment before he said, "In truth, after a month or so of research, I've completely grasped the various data variations regarding a Host's third-form shifting. What I lack is the aspect of the almighty beast's will. However, the almighty beast's will is difficult to grasp. Only the Host himself can feel it, and others can't clearly grasp it at all. Therefore, this will require a long time of steady research. It's not something that can be completed in one day."

"Naturally, I'll live up to my initial promise. Today, I'll give you the detailed formulation for the Ofu Nourishment Pond, along with ten batches of materials. Consider our agreement fulfilled."

Heroult's decision caused Merlin to become somewhat flabbergasted. Although Heroult spoke casually, Merlin could detect a trace of solemnity from his voice.

Merlin did not know what Heroult had encountered, that he would directly end his agreement with Merlin.

"Curator Heroult, what happened? If I'm needed, I'll surely help as best as I can!"

Merlin knew that something must have happened to Heroult, something very urgent. Otherwise, Heroult would not have hurriedly ended his agreement with Merlin.

"You can't help me for now…"

Curator Heroult's voice was quite despondent. After a pause, he continued, "Leon, I know that you've been investigating my identity secretly, as well as my secrets. In fact, if you have more time, you'll discover certain clues and deduce my identity from them. However, I'll offer you an opportunity. It's true that I'm backed by a massive organization. If you're willing to join us, you'll easily get all the Nourishment Pond formulas you need within this organization. All you need is a certain amount of contribution points."

"A massive organization?"

Merlin fell into deep thought. Previously, he had guessed that Heroult was surely supported by a huge organization. Otherwise, obtaining Nourishment Pond materials would not be so easy.

Merlin also wished to access this channel. If he did not after he left Brews Castle and lost contact with Heroult, would he not be cut off from his stable access of Nourishment Pond materials?

Therefore, Merlin felt a rush of excitement at Heroult's suggestion but he was still cautious as he asked softly, "What organization is this?"

If Heroult belonged to an external organization that had infiltrated the Holy Dragon City, Merlin would have to think twice before joining.

As if he sensed Merlin's misgivings, Heroult laughed as he said, "Phantom! You must not have heard of it. Don't worry, Phantom is not an enemy faction to the Holy Dragon Empire. Conversely, Phantom is an intelligence agency that the royal family relies greatly upon; tasked with finding out all news within the Holy Dragon Empire."

"Phantom?"

Merlin was rather astonished. He did not think that Heroult's identity would be a conductor within the royal family's intelligence agency, which was an impressive status. The Nourishment Pond materials he had given Merlin were all obtained through Phantom.

Chapter 946: Headquarters

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

"What are the benefits of joining Phantom?"

Merlin hesitated before asking.

Heroult pointed at the young woman and laughed, "That's the reason why I called Lotus here. She's Phantom's Logistics Team's leader."

Lotus glanced at Merlin and said in a cold voice, "All the Nourishment Pond materials you need, including the formula, can be obtained in the Logistics Team! However, you need contribution points. If it weren't for Deputy Commander Heroult's recommendation, someone like you who has never been in an intelligence department would never enter the Logistics Team."

Merlin's heart moved. He finally knew where the Nourishment Pond materials Heroult gave him came from. It was most likely obtained from Lotus.

Furthermore, Lotus and Heroult had a close relationship. It was not something simple as a superficial superior-subordinate relationship.

However, Merlin did not wish to know the details. He only needed to know how to access the Nourishment Pond materials. Joining Phantom seemed to be a good choice.

After all, even if the Holy Dragon Empire fell apart, the royal family would not fall as long as they had the Holy Dragon City and the head of the Sacred Lion.

Therefore, the royal family did not have to worry about resources for the time being. By relying on the royal family, there was no need to worry about obtaining Nourishment Pond materials.

"Alright, I'll join Phantom!"

Merlin quickly made a decision to join Phantom. He may have been restricted and not as free as before, but as long as he could get the Nourishment Pond materials, it was worth it even if he was restricted.

"Very good. Lotus, I'll leave Leon to you."

It seemed like Heroult would be leaving the Holy Dragon City for a while. Otherwise, he would not introduce Merlin to Lotus.

"Come with me."

Lotus nodded before saying coldly to Merlin.

Merlin glanced at Heroult who nodded and followed after Lotus without any hesitation. He could not use the mansion's carriage, so he could only follow Lotus to the carriage that was prepared beforehand.

"Team leader Lotus, is Heroult leaving the Holy Dragon City?"

Although Merlin had his guesses, he was not clear on the real reason.

"The Deputy Commander has a secret mission. To obtain contribution points, you need to perform missions. Otherwise, the royal family will not provide the Nourishment Pond materials for no reason."

Lotus seemed to know Merlin's true purpose in joining Phantom. Nourishment Pond materials and formulae were all provided by the royal family. The power of the royal family was great, and these mere resources were nothing to them.

However, since a reward and penalty system was established, it had to be implemented without hesitation. Contribution points were the most important method. Only with contribution points could one obtain the various resources in Phantom.

"It's somewhat similar to the practices of some major forces in the past."

Merlin was not surprised. Since the materials were so precious, the royal family could not give them to many people for no reason.

"How do you obtain contribution points? Do we have to do missions too? What tasks does the Logistics Teams usually do?"

Merlin asked many questions in succession which caused Lotus to frown.

"You ask too many questions. You'll naturally learn when you reach Phantom. I'll explain later."

Then, Lotus leaned on the carriage, closed her eyes, and stopped moving.

Merlin let out a sigh. Seeing Lotus remain silent, he also closed his eyes and quietly waited until the carriage reached Phantom.

After about an hour or so, the carriage gradually stopped. The Holy Dragon City was large, but the carriage spent a full hour's time. It showed that Phantom was located close to the border of the Holy Dragon Empire.

When Merlin and Lotus got off the carriage, Merlin only saw a deserted castle in front of them. It did not seem like there were any figures around.

"This is Phantom?"

Merlin followed Lotus into the dilapidated castle and saw Lotus walking directly to a corner of the living room where there was an old broken vase.

Just as Merlin was wondering, Lotus put her hand into the broken case and seemed to activate a mechanism.

"Rumble."

A huge dark passage immediately opened up in the manor, and a ladder that was seemingly bottomless was revealed at a closer look as if danger lurked below.

Just as Merlin was about to descend, Lotus waved her hand and sneered. "If you go down that path, you'll die. Even full-shifters will be trapped inside!"

Merlin was shocked. This path was a trap?

"Don't be surprised. Phantom is an intelligence department; how can someone easily find the entrance? Those who aren't truly from Phantom will never find the entrance. Even if they find this manor, they'll be misled and enter a dangerous path."

Saying that, Lotus seemed to feel for something in the vase, and another passage soon appeared in the castle. However, Lotus still did not enter this passage.

There was no doubt that this was also a fake path. If one did not pay attention, they would enter the fake channel, and the situation would become very dangerous.

"Rumble."

When Lotus opened the third path, she finally walked into it. It turned out that the first two paths were both traps and only the third path was the correct one leading to Phantom Headquarters.

"How secretive."

Merlin secretly nodded. As expected from the royal family's intelligence department. Those that wanted to find Phantom would suffer a great loss just from the traps arranged at the entrance.

Even if someone was followed into the abandoned dilapidated castle, they would not find the correct path into Phantom Headquarters.

Merlin followed Lotus onto the path. Although it was very dark, Lotus seemed to be very familiar with it. There was no light at all as they walked towards the depths in darkness.

After a short while, Merlin found that there seemed to be an exit ahead, and it was gradually becoming brighter.

"We've reached Headquarters! Remember, you're now a member of our Logistics Team, and the necessary ceremonies must still be carried out. You must first swear allegiance to the royal family. Of course, this oath is only symbolic, but our Logistics Department places great importance on relationships, and we can't let other teams find any faults."

Lotus gave Merlin a few words of warning and took him through the channel. A huge underground square appeared in front of them.

The square was divided into many areas and many people came and went constantly which created a busy scene.

"This is Headquarters?"

Merlin watched carefully. From what he could see alone, Phantom Headquarters seemed to have two to three hundred people. There was no sunshine in the underground square, and the lighting depended on colored glass lights on the top of the underground square. The light emitted was very soft and bright, making the entire square shine as if it was daytime.

Chapter 947: Logistics Team

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

"Headquarters is divided into the Combat Team, Logistics Team, Research Team, and Investigation Team! The Logistics Team and the Research Team stay in the headquarters all year round, while the Combat Team and the Investigation Team perform their tasks outside."

Lotus explained the headquarters situation to Merlin. Phantom Headquarters comprised of the four teams, and the ones in charge of battles were the Combat Team and the Investigation Team.

As for the Logistics Team and the Research Team, they never faced danger as they always stayed in headquarters. For the Logistics Team, they mainly received all kinds of resources from the royal family. They were quite lax, but they held real authority.

It was no wonder that Heroult recommended Merlin to join the Logistics Team. Merlin's current state was considered strong as a third-form Host. His parasite was only a mere low-grade almighty beast will, so it would be very dangerous if he went to the Combat Team.

Soon, Lotus and Merlin reached the Logistics Team. The entire Logistics Team did not have many members and only comprised of a dozen people or so. However, most of them were female and they were all slim and charming. Seeing Lotus entering with Merlin, they all had shocked looks on their faces.

"Team leader, this is?"

A woman wearing a large red robe asked while looking at Merlin.

"His name is Leon. From today onwards, he has officially joined our Logistics Team. Belle, go input Leon's information into our Logistics Team and submit it to headquarters tomorrow."

As the team leader, Lotus had unquestionable authority in the Logistics Team.

"Understood, team leader. My my, Master Leon, what family did you come from? You're so young but you have managed to join the Logistics Team directly. Call me Belle. Just ask me if there's anything you don't understand!"

Belle charmingly flirted with Merlin, but Merlin turned a blind eye and merely nodded politely.

"Leon, come with me."

Lotus looked at Merlin coldly. She seemed to have some hostility towards him which Merlin found puzzling. Did it have something to do with Heroult?

Following Lotus to a small room, the smell of her perfume wafted into Merlin's nose. Although he always disliked strong perfume, he liked faint and light scents. However, he did not find the smell of Lotus's rich perfume objectionable and felt that it had a strange lure instead.

"Leon, Heroult left for a secret mission. It's very dangerous and we can't be sure if he'll return. Before he left, he specifically told me to bring you into Phantom, but I really don't understand. You're just an experiment to him, so why does he care so much about you? However, I'll carry out what Heroult entrusted me to do in any case, but whether or not you can gain contribution points in Phantom will depend on your own skill. I won't be helping you. Do you understand?"

After listening to Lotus's words, Merlin finally understood. Lotus did have an unknown relationship with Heroult. As Deputy Commander, Heroult had to perform a dangerous task, which showed that this mission was very important.

Lotus was merely displacing her anger at Heroult for bringing danger to Merlin.

"How do I earn contribution points? How can I exchange contribution points for resources?" Merlin asked in a low voice. This was his greatest concern.

"The Logistics Team is the lowest with only ten contribution points per month. If something goes wrong, a deduction of contribution points is possible. The team with the highest contribution points is the Combat Team. They get a hefty amount of contribution points for each task they perform but the death rate is also very high. If you enter the Combat Team, you're seeking your own death!"

Lotus said that coldly without paying heed to Merlin's feelings. In her opinion, Merlin's current strength of being a third-form shifter, but his almighty beast's grade was too low. He would be at the bottom rung even if he went to the Combat Team.

"Alright, you can ask Belle for the details."

Lotus waved her hand and let Merlin leave.

Merlin could not get any specific information from Lotus, so he went straight to Belle. This charming woman clearly regarded him as the child of a prominent aristocrat in Bay City.

It seems that it was not easy to join the Logistics Team. Without a prominent status and a strong background, it was impossible to enter the Logistics Team.

"Miss Belle," Merlin called out calmly.

"Master Leon, how may I help you?"

Belle's eyes brightened. She was well endowed and her skin was very fair with a very rich scent of perfume. However, it was not as sensual as the smell on Lotus's body, so Merlin disliked it instead.

"Miss Belle, I'd like to know about contribution points and exchanging them for resources."

"Oh? Contribution points you say… Aristocrats like you usually come to Phantom for resources. After all, the various resources in Phantom are directly provided by the royal family."

Merlin's heart moved. It was no wonder many aristocrats wanted to enter Phantom. It turned out that all these resources were provided by the royal family.

Although the royal family of the Holy Dragon Empire was no longer able to control the entire empire due to bloodline issues, their connections were something that no other force could compete against. Over the centuries, the various resources accumulated by the royal family were countless.

Even if it was the Nourishment Pond formula materials that Merlin needed, they were not even worth mentioning to the royal family. It was also because of these huge resources that there were still many aristocrats that supported the royal family in the Holy Dragon City, despite the confusion of war in the empire.

"It's no wonder Heroult could produce 20 portions of Nourishment Pond materials in one fell swoop. It turns out that all these materials were provided by the royal family."

Many people still regarded the royal family as an unconquerable giant. With the royal family's collection, it was not necessary to purchase materials from thousands of miles away like some business guilds do. The stock in the royal family's treasure was almost inexhaustible.

"How many contribution points are needed to exchange a set of these materials?"

Merlin listed some of the ingredients in the Hermani Nourishment Pond formula and showed it to Belle.

Belle gave it a cursory glance and hesitated for a moment before she said, "This is a Nourishment Pond formula, right? There are some Hosts in Phantom. There are none in the Logistics Team, but there are many in the Combat Team. They also often exchange Nourishment Pond materials. These materials of yours can be exchanged with only ten contribution points. Even if there are some inconsistencies, the estimation won't be too far off."

"Only ten contribution points are needed?"

Merlin's heart was filled with joy. He did not expect one set of materials to only cost ten contribution points. Although he hid a portion of the materials, the final amount most likely would not exceed too much.

"Of course. In fact, the materials the royal family provides are almost one-tenth of the market price, or perhaps even lower. However, they can only be exchanged using contribution points. This is the royal family's way of winning the hearts of the people. As for resources, the royal family doesn't have any lack of them."

Belle was very calm at Merlin's surprise. It seemed that this was not the first time she experienced such a situation. Many people who came to Phantom for the first time were shocked by how 'cheap' the exchange was.