1008 - 1016

Chapter 1008: Nine Lives II

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

One time, two times, three times, four times…

No matter how many times the Nine-lives Werewolf was resurrected and no matter how much his power was amplified, each time, he was killed by Merlin's single blow. He could not withstand a second blow at all.

"Ah ah ah ah, b*stard. What kind of person are you? How are you so strong?"

After dying eight times, the Nine-lives Werewolf was left with just one life. Currently, his physical attributes had been increased to his strongest state – nine times greater than his initial self.

Ninefold of his physical attributes – this was the moment the Nine-lives Werewolf was the strongest. However, now, the Nine-lives Werewolf who had always been so confident was scared as if the fearsome creature before him was the true freak. How could his physical attributes be so formidable? It was to a point where it was inconceivable.

Doomsday and the rest were stunned as well. Although they were ultimate contenders too, they relied upon their Supreme Talents. In terms of pure destructive power, they would fall short of the Nine-lives Werewolf by far.

As they watched the battle between the Nine-lives Werewolf and Merlin, the destructive power was truly a shock to these ultimate contenders. With the frightening power between both of them, wrecking the entire Holy Dragon City was a piece of cake.

Merlin's eyes were wide with amazement. At this moment, he had become interested in the Nine-lives Werewolf. This was a pure strength-type ultimate contender. In this world, Merlin would not be able to find a second one. If the Blood-eye could devour the Nine-lives Werewolf, Merlin's capability would expand further.

Although Merlin did not know what his limits were, all he could do now was to devour incessantly. Even if there were no almighty beasts' will to swallow, he could consume the powerful almighty beasts' flesh. The Nine-lives Werewolf was an excellent choice.

The Nine-lives Werewolf's body was now twice the size of his initial bulk and was eye-catching as he stood in the empty square. One of his feet was enough to casually destroy a castle while his colossal body gave off a suffocating, horrifying pressure.

Ninefold of his physical attributes had given him unbelievable strength.

"Very well, finally someone has forced me to this stage. Nine times of my physical attributes, nine times of my strength. Not even I had ever experienced such immense power. I had never felt so good!"

The Nine-lives Werewolf's heart was leaping with excitement. He was drunk on this feeling for it was a new experience. His tremendous strength even surprised himself.

Merlin glared coldly at the Nine-lives Werewolf as he said placidly, "This is your last chance. You have no more lives to squander, so let's end it here!"

Merlin observed the Nine-lives Werewolf whose body was larger than his but felt no trace of fear. His gigantic body was immediately mobilized fully. This time, he exploded with all his might.

Not even Merlin himself knew how powerful his strength was but after he exploded at full strength, he felt as if even space itself was mightily compressed, about to shatter at any moment. He knew that in the Almighty Beast World, space was incredibly sturdy and breaking it was nearly impossible.

However, presently, Merlin had such feeling as if he only had to be slightly stronger to shatter space.

"Haha, come on then!"

The Nine-lives Werewolf unleashed a great roar as the muscles all over his body swelled. His body grew by a size and the energy that erupted even caused the air to hiss explosively.

"Boom."

Both of them clashed at full strength and the petrifying crash resounded in everyone's heart. Another layer of the ground was stripped off by this fearsome force. Rings of shockwaves swiftly spread out in all directions at a visible pace. All that they touched was crushed into smithereens and for several miles around, the surrounding land was leveled flat.

"It's over!"

The smoke and dust had dispersed before anyone could glimpse what had happened. They saw the Nine-lives Werewolf wearing an alarmed look. His colossal body was now crushed mercilessly under Merlin's bulk, without even the possibility of moving a muscle.

"Blood-eye, devour!"

A cold glint shone in Merlin's eyes, following which the Blood-eye in his forehead projected a crimson beam of light that shrouded the Nine-lives Werewolf. Instantly, the Nine-lives Werewolf who was grievously injured by Merlin without any resistance, felt his blood rapidly surging throughout his body before he finally exploded.

"Bang bang bang."

Endless fresh blood sprayed out from the Nine-lives Werewolf's body and was absorbed by Merlin at once, who wildly swallowed everything. The energy contained within the blood of the Nine-lives Werewolf's body far exceeded Merlin's expectations.

Fortunately, Merlin's current body seemed to have no limits. His bulk began to swell at a discernible speed. At the same time, there was something Merlin had never imagined. The barrier of the Illusory World in his body was swiftly fortified. Previously, it was very frail but now, as Merlin's body grew stronger, the Illusory World's barrier was subtly heading toward a true strengthened state of this world.

Maybe this was the only benefit the Almighty Beast World would provide to the Illusory World.

Merlin did not take note of the changes in the Illusory World at all. Currently, he only felt his body becoming stronger as if he was about to break free from his shackles. However, at the same time, he sensed a terrifying will stirring in the dark abyss as if it was suppressing him.

"This will? The Almighty Beast World's will?"

Merlin was greatly shocked. That profound state swiftly vanished and he returned to reality. He saw that the Nine-lives Werewolf's body had been sucked dry completely. Naturally, the Nine-lives Werewolf had become a withered corpse, breathing his last.

Merlin's shapeshifted form was even more fearsome now. His body had grown by another size and his strength had increased an unknown number of times. Even Merlin's tiny gesture contained horrifying power.

"Earlier, I've sensed the the Almighty Beast World's will. Could it be that by constantly increasing my physical strength and reaching a limit, I can also detect the Almighty Beast World's will? In other words, is this of the ways to become a sacred beast?"

Merlin did not know what happened. Although he used to be a great existence who contended against a Latitude Cosmo, in this unfamiliar world, many laws were different from the Void Zone. Merlin did not understand them well.

Luckily, as his body grew stronger, the Illusory World's rate of recovery was boosted too. When the Illusory World was fully restored, Merlin would not need to fear the Almighty Beast World's will.

No one paid any attention to what Merlin was thinking. Doomsday and the rest were staring unwaveringly at the Nine-lives Werewolf's dried corpse. A proud and mighty ultimate contender had died?

Previously, the Candora Trio-Lords, despite their surprise attack, had merely seriously injured the three elders of the royal family but was unable to kill them. Nonetheless, the Nine-lives Werewolf who had nine lives, who seemed so difficult to kill, had now died at Merlin's hands. Furthermore, it was in a confrontation of strength. This was far from everyone's expectations.

"Swish."

Merlin turned his gaze toward Doomsday. Of course, he still remembered that Doomsday had forced him into a corner back then. If it was not for Farron's arrival, things would not have ended for Merlin.

"Boom."

Merlin did not hesitate in the slightest and immediately lunged toward Doomsday. After his physical attributes were improved, his speed had increased significantly. In the blink of an eye, he was in front of Doomsday.

"Soul of Light!"

Suddenly, Doomsday's voice rang from all directions and the surrounding space started to fluctuate, turning into a blank white expanse as if blanketed in a white fog.

Merlin lightly shut his eyes and opened them again but it was still the same world – no changes. He knew that this was Doomsday's Supreme Talent. Only a similar Supreme Talent could contend against this Soul of Light.

Farron had used his Mirror Talent to oppose Doomsday's Soul of Light but Merlin had no Supreme Talents that were similar. Therefore, for the moment, he was trapped in Doomsday's Soul of Light like the last time.

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Chapter 1009: Ripped Apart!

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

"Soul of Light? How wondrous it is. If I can mobilize my Illusory World, what would this mere Soul of Light count for?"

Merlin felt somewhat powerless. Clearly, he knew that Soul of Light was illusory but he could not locate its flaws, so he had no way to dispel it. It was like Merlin's Illusory World. Once it enveloped his opponents, even if they knew very well that this was illusory, they were powerless. This was the scary part of illusions.

Of course, compared to the Illusory World, Doomsday's Soul of Light was lacking by far. Nonetheless, with Merlin's current state where he could not mobilize his Mind Power let alone the Illusory World, wanting to dispel the Soul of Light was challenging.

Thus, Merlin might as well stand there quietly, shutting his eyes calmly. He was patiently searching for any flaws in the Soul of Light or the place where Doomsday's real body was.

He knew that Doomsday must be nearby, sure to be observing Merlin's movements closely. If only Merlin could figure out Doomsday's actual position, then even if he could not locate the flaws of the Soul of Light, he could still disperse it in one strike.

In other words, Doomsday's real body was the greatest flaw of the Soul of Light!

"Humph, do you think I can't deal with you if you don't move?"

Outside, Doomsday saw that Merlin was not moving a muscle. Thus, he further increased the strength of the Soul of Light and shot out countless piercing arrows.

"Whiz whiz whiz."

These were not an illusion but Doomsday's attack. These crimson-colored sharp arrows were frightening. Even ordinary full-shifting contenders would have to retreat strategically.

Nonetheless, Merlin did not even twitch, allowing the crimson arrows to fly toward him. Instantly, waves of arrow fell upon him like rain.

However, these crimson arrows could not even break past Merlin's most external defenses. Merlin shook his head and said softly, "Too weak, far too weak."

"What?"

Doomsday's face was gripped by shock. He had never thought that his attack could not even get past Merlin's outer defenses. At this point, only Farron was smirking to himself. In the past, he had used up all his methods but even he could not injure Merlin, let alone Doomsday.

Faced with a tyrannical existence like Merlin whose body was tough to an unimaginable extent, it was difficult to cause him harm even if he was trapped.

While Doomsday was unable to harm Merlin, likewise, Merlin was trapped in the Soul of Light with no way of harming Doomsday.

Following that, Doomsday began to wildly unleash various techniques but unsurprisingly, they did not affect Merlin at all. He did not even move and allowed Doomsday to attack. Doomsday still could not injure him.

The only one who could injure Merlin was the Nine-lives Werewolf but he was already devoured by Merlin.

"Let's pay no mind to this monster for now. Go and find out from the king the location of the Sacred Lion Beast's head."

Doomsday's face was gloomy. Not being able to kill Merlin, he felt a sense of embarrassment but under the circumstances, he could only trap Merlin for now.

The Phantom King laughed coldly then wielded his technique. He could manifest countless phantom duplicates that immediately attached themselves to the king. The king's face turned stiff and he was immediately controlled. His eyes became blank and lifeless as well.

"Tell us, where's the Sacred Lion Beast's head?"

The Phantom King asked sinisterly. Nonetheless, the current king had been controlled and could only reply frankly, "The Sacred Lion Beast's head is in the underground secret chamber in the depths of the palace."

"Are there any dangers within the secret chamber?"

The Phantom King was cautious too. He knew that most secret chambers like this would likely have some protective forces.

"There are many full-shifting contenders in the secret chamber but if one possessed the concentrated bloodline of the royal family's descendants, one could neutralize those guards."

The king spoke without reserve, revealing every detail.

"Haha, then we'll make the first move!"

When the Candora Trio-Lords heard this, they laughed loudly and flew toward the outside of the palace. Nonetheless, they did not seize the king. As for the bloodline of the royal family's descendant, they did not wish to lag behind while they were competing for the Sacred Lion Beast's head. They immediately looked toward the Princess Royal.

"We'll bring you with us!"

The Candora Trio-Lords flew toward the Princess Royal at once. These three ultimate contenders did not need to spend much effort to capture the Princess Royal, leaving behind the Shadow King, the Phantom King, and the rest who could only watch helplessly.

"Doomsday, you stay here and restrict this monster. We'll take our leave first, haha!"

The Shadow King and the rest chortled to themselves, then left the foyer, flying toward the secret chamber where the Sacred Lion Beast was. In the entire hall, only Doomsday and Farron were left, along with Merlin who was trapped by Doomsday.

In the foyer, Farron's glare hooked onto Doomsday as he asked coldly, "Doomsday, don't you sense that you're now in great danger?"

"Huh?"

Doomsday looked around at the empty foyer, then looked toward Merlin whom he had trapped in the Soul of Light. At this point, he realized that he had fallen into danger. No one cared whether he lived or died. They had all frantically chased after that Sacred Lion Beast's head.

If there was only Merlin who was trapped, Doomsday did not need to worry. After all, Merlin could not struggle out of the bindings of his Soul of Light.

However, Farron's presence now was making Doomsday very nervous because Farron's Supreme Talent could dispel his Soul of Light. In a one-on-one match, Doomsday was unafraid of Farron as both of their Supreme Talents could be nullified.

Nonetheless, there was Merlin now. Once Farron had dispersed Doomsday's Soul of Light, based on the valiant strength Merlin had displayed, things did not look too good for Doomsday.

"Farron, this monster's existence is a threat to you, right? I still understand some of the matters of your royal family. This monster is on the Princess Royal's side while you're the king's man. Today, if you save him, things won't end too well for you in the future."

Doomsday narrowed his eyes slightly and growled.

Even so, Farron guffawed, then stared at Doomsday, saying with a long sigh, "Doomsday, you still don't understand me. His Majesty's greatest wish is to make the Holy Dragon Empire flourish once more. Perhaps His Majesty is no longer the man for this job but the Princess Royal could do it!"

With that, terrifying energy exploded, shrouding Doomsday's Soul of Light. This was Farron's Mirror Supreme Talent, a power that affected the mind as well.

"Hiss."

Merlin quickly opened his eyes. He sensed that a crack had appeared in Doomsday's Soul of Light.

"Go!"

Merlin did not overthink this. Since he had found a weak spot, he had to seize this chance. Therefore, his colossal body began to move, bringing with it a fearsome strength that smashed directly toward that crack.

"Boom."

The Soul of Light shattered into smithereens in that instant. The foyer resumed its appearance before Merlin's eyes, and there were only Doomsday and Farron beside him.

Countless thoughts flashed across Merlin's mind. Of course, he knew that Farron must have acted to help him escape from Doomsday's Soul of Light, just like the previous time Farron had rescued Merlin.

However, this time, Merlin could kill Doomsday!

"Doomsday, the last time, you couldn't kill me. This time, it's your turn!"

Merlin's stare turned icy as he glared at Doomsday. The terrifying force of his body was like an immense mountain that pushed down upon Doomsday mercilessly.

At this moment, Doomsday understood why the Nine-lives Werewolf had died so soon. He could not resist at all. Without the advantage of the Soul of Light, Doomsday was merely somewhat stronger than most full-shifters. He was much inferior to the Nine-lives Werewolf.

"Die!"

Merlin's gigantic bulk reached Doomsday in one stride. His hands grabbed Doomsday's shapeshifted body and tore it forcefully.

"Rip."

How mighty was Merlin's strength? With one rip, he immediately separated Doomsday's body into two halves. Blood gushed out and the entire foyer was pervaded by the intense stench of blood.

Chapter 1009: Ripped Apart!

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

"Soul of Light? How wondrous it is. If I can mobilize my Illusory World, what would this mere Soul of Light count for?"

Merlin felt somewhat powerless. Clearly, he knew that Soul of Light was illusory but he could not locate its flaws, so he had no way to dispel it. It was like Merlin's Illusory World. Once it enveloped his opponents, even if they knew very well that this was illusory, they were powerless. This was the scary part of illusions.

Of course, compared to the Illusory World, Doomsday's Soul of Light was lacking by far. Nonetheless, with Merlin's current state where he could not mobilize his Mind Power let alone the Illusory World, wanting to dispel the Soul of Light was challenging.

Thus, Merlin might as well stand there quietly, shutting his eyes calmly. He was patiently searching for any flaws in the Soul of Light or the place where Doomsday's real body was.

He knew that Doomsday must be nearby, sure to be observing Merlin's movements closely. If only Merlin could figure out Doomsday's actual position, then even if he could not locate the flaws of the Soul of Light, he could still disperse it in one strike.

In other words, Doomsday's real body was the greatest flaw of the Soul of Light!

"Humph, do you think I can't deal with you if you don't move?"

Outside, Doomsday saw that Merlin was not moving a muscle. Thus, he further increased the strength of the Soul of Light and shot out countless piercing arrows.

"Whiz whiz whiz."

These were not an illusion but Doomsday's attack. These crimson-colored sharp arrows were frightening. Even ordinary full-shifting contenders would have to retreat strategically.

Nonetheless, Merlin did not even twitch, allowing the crimson arrows to fly toward him. Instantly, waves of arrow fell upon him like rain.

However, these crimson arrows could not even break past Merlin's most external defenses. Merlin shook his head and said softly, "Too weak, far too weak."

"What?"

Doomsday's face was gripped by shock. He had never thought that his attack could not even get past Merlin's outer defenses. At this point, only Farron was smirking to himself. In the past, he had used up all his methods but even he could not injure Merlin, let alone Doomsday.

Faced with a tyrannical existence like Merlin whose body was tough to an unimaginable extent, it was difficult to cause him harm even if he was trapped.

While Doomsday was unable to harm Merlin, likewise, Merlin was trapped in the Soul of Light with no way of harming Doomsday.

Following that, Doomsday began to wildly unleash various techniques but unsurprisingly, they did not affect Merlin at all. He did not even move and allowed Doomsday to attack. Doomsday still could not injure him.

The only one who could injure Merlin was the Nine-lives Werewolf but he was already devoured by Merlin.

"Let's pay no mind to this monster for now. Go and find out from the king the location of the Sacred Lion Beast's head."

Doomsday's face was gloomy. Not being able to kill Merlin, he felt a sense of embarrassment but under the circumstances, he could only trap Merlin for now.

The Phantom King laughed coldly then wielded his technique. He could manifest countless phantom duplicates that immediately attached themselves to the king. The king's face turned stiff and he was immediately controlled. His eyes became blank and lifeless as well.

"Tell us, where's the Sacred Lion Beast's head?"

The Phantom King asked sinisterly. Nonetheless, the current king had been controlled and could only reply frankly, "The Sacred Lion Beast's head is in the underground secret chamber in the depths of the palace."

"Are there any dangers within the secret chamber?"

The Phantom King was cautious too. He knew that most secret chambers like this would likely have some protective forces.

"There are many full-shifting contenders in the secret chamber but if one possessed the concentrated bloodline of the royal family's descendants, one could neutralize those guards."

The king spoke without reserve, revealing every detail.

"Haha, then we'll make the first move!"

When the Candora Trio-Lords heard this, they laughed loudly and flew toward the outside of the palace. Nonetheless, they did not seize the king. As for the bloodline of the royal family's descendant, they did not wish to lag behind while they were competing for the Sacred Lion Beast's head. They immediately looked toward the Princess Royal.

"We'll bring you with us!"

The Candora Trio-Lords flew toward the Princess Royal at once. These three ultimate contenders did not need to spend much effort to capture the Princess Royal, leaving behind the Shadow King, the Phantom King, and the rest who could only watch helplessly.

"Doomsday, you stay here and restrict this monster. We'll take our leave first, haha!"

The Shadow King and the rest chortled to themselves, then left the foyer, flying toward the secret chamber where the Sacred Lion Beast was. In the entire hall, only Doomsday and Farron were left, along with Merlin who was trapped by Doomsday.

In the foyer, Farron's glare hooked onto Doomsday as he asked coldly, "Doomsday, don't you sense that you're now in great danger?"

"Huh?"

Doomsday looked around at the empty foyer, then looked toward Merlin whom he had trapped in the Soul of Light. At this point, he realized that he had fallen into danger. No one cared whether he lived or died. They had all frantically chased after that Sacred Lion Beast's head.

If there was only Merlin who was trapped, Doomsday did not need to worry. After all, Merlin could not struggle out of the bindings of his Soul of Light.

However, Farron's presence now was making Doomsday very nervous because Farron's Supreme Talent could dispel his Soul of Light. In a one-on-one match, Doomsday was unafraid of Farron as both of their Supreme Talents could be nullified.

Nonetheless, there was Merlin now. Once Farron had dispersed Doomsday's Soul of Light, based on the valiant strength Merlin had displayed, things did not look too good for Doomsday.

"Farron, this monster's existence is a threat to you, right? I still understand some of the matters of your royal family. This monster is on the Princess Royal's side while you're the king's man. Today, if you save him, things won't end too well for you in the future."

Doomsday narrowed his eyes slightly and growled.

Even so, Farron guffawed, then stared at Doomsday, saying with a long sigh, "Doomsday, you still don't understand me. His Majesty's greatest wish is to make the Holy Dragon Empire flourish once more. Perhaps His Majesty is no longer the man for this job but the Princess Royal could do it!"

With that, terrifying energy exploded, shrouding Doomsday's Soul of Light. This was Farron's Mirror Supreme Talent, a power that affected the mind as well.

"Hiss."

Merlin quickly opened his eyes. He sensed that a crack had appeared in Doomsday's Soul of Light.

"Go!"

Merlin did not overthink this. Since he had found a weak spot, he had to seize this chance. Therefore, his colossal body began to move, bringing with it a fearsome strength that smashed directly toward that crack.

"Boom."

The Soul of Light shattered into smithereens in that instant. The foyer resumed its appearance before Merlin's eyes, and there were only Doomsday and Farron beside him.

Countless thoughts flashed across Merlin's mind. Of course, he knew that Farron must have acted to help him escape from Doomsday's Soul of Light, just like the previous time Farron had rescued Merlin.

However, this time, Merlin could kill Doomsday!

"Doomsday, the last time, you couldn't kill me. This time, it's your turn!"

Merlin's stare turned icy as he glared at Doomsday. The terrifying force of his body was like an immense mountain that pushed down upon Doomsday mercilessly.

At this moment, Doomsday understood why the Nine-lives Werewolf had died so soon. He could not resist at all. Without the advantage of the Soul of Light, Doomsday was merely somewhat stronger than most full-shifters. He was much inferior to the Nine-lives Werewolf.

"Die!"

Merlin's gigantic bulk reached Doomsday in one stride. His hands grabbed Doomsday's shapeshifted body and tore it forcefully.

"Rip."

How mighty was Merlin's strength? With one rip, he immediately separated Doomsday's body into two halves. Blood gushed out and the entire foyer was pervaded by the intense stench of blood.

Chapter 1010: Magic Mirror!

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

He was dead. The mighty ultimate contender – Doomsday – had instantly lost his life force. Farron wore a complex expression as he looked toward the two halves of Doomsday's corpse on the ground. In the past, he had viewed Doomsday as his greatest threat. They had fought each other for so many times but ultimately, no one could defeat the other.

However, Doomsday was now dead. This seemed to indicate that even ultimate contenders like them were, at best, slightly stronger than ordinary people. They would still die in the end.

"Blood-eye!"

The Blood-eye in Merlin's forehead immediately enveloped Doomsday's corpse. The blood which contained the majority of Doomsday's strength was absorbed by Merlin's Blood-eye.

"Crack."

At last, Merlin's body expanded by another size. The overbearing force caused even Farron to feel rather fearful.

"This sensation… It feels like the Almighty Beast World's will?"

Merlin raised his head. After absorbing the energy from the blood of two ultimate contenders successively, Merlin's body had grown to a fearsome extent. Even so, Merlin did not believe that this was the limit. He felt that there was still room to grow.

The most obvious change after his body had undergone transformation was that he could vaguely detect a frightening will pervading the surroundings. Before this will, even the greatest power was utterly negligible. Back then, Merlin had been directly attacked by the Almighty Beast World's will. Naturally, he recognized that this was the same will.

"I can finally sense the Almighty Beast World's will."

Merlin's heart relaxed slightly. Only now was he able to ascertain that the path he walked was the right one because no matter which Latitude Cosmo one was in, when one became a peak existence, one would sense that Latitude Cosmo's will.

If one could not detect the Latitude Cosmo's will, one's ability had not reached the required level. Previously, Merlin had worried that he was not a conventional inheritor of an almighty beast bloodline and he had not taken the path of the Supreme Talent. Would he be forever unable to reach the peak of this world?

However, after sensing the Almighty Beast World's will, Merlin immediately gained confidence that he was on the right path. At this point, he was already much further than many ultimate contenders. Those who could sense the Almighty Beast World's will must be rather uncommon. At least, even Farron was unable to sense the Almighty Beast World's will.

Previously, Merlin had wondered if sacred beasts represented the Almighty Beast World's will? Or maybe a portion of the Almighty Beast World's will was within the sacred beasts, which was how they became sacred beasts.

This was merely Merlin's conjecture but now it looked like he was closer to the truth. As long as Merlin continued strengthening his abilities, the secrets of the sacred beasts would not be so impenetrable.

Following that, Merlin cast a glance at Farron and resumed his ordinary appearance, asking calmly, "Farron, the king and the Princess Royal had been kidnapped to the underground secret chamber that housed the Sacred Lion Beast's head. What are you going to do?"

Farron smiled. He seemed to notice the changes in Merlin's body and said softly, "Marquis Leon, perhaps this time, I'm no longer necessary for you to handle these guys. So many people are after the Sacred Lion Beast's head. How foolish of them. Yet, you've accomplished something…"

After Farron had spoken, he immediately left. Based on where he was heading, he was going to rescue the king.

Merlin had gone to the secret chamber where the Sacred Lion Beast's head was once before so of course, he knew where it was. Nonetheless, the place required a descendant of the royal family. After some thought, he headed toward the other palace. There were some princes or princesses. With their blood, he should be able to access the secret chamber.

He casually grabbed some princes and princesses. Of course, some of them knew Merlin and they yelled and screamed about punishing Merlin. However, at Merlin's level, who could punish him?

Soon, Merlin reached the secret chamber of the Sacred Lion Beast. Farron was already waiting there. When he saw that Merlin had captured some princes and princesses, a wry smile tugged at the corner of his lips. "We have to trouble Your Highnesses. This relates to the fate of the royal family. I humbly request your cooperation."

Merlin was less courteous, immediately sending them forward one by one to drip their blood. Only a descendant whose bloodline was concentrated to a certain degree would be able to open the secret chamber.

After three princes had dripped their blood, there was no effect. Nonetheless, a princess' blood was able to open the chamber, revealing a dark passage that headed downward.

"Swoosh."

Merlin swiftly entered the passage. Following that, with familiar steps, he hurried to the place where the Sacred Lion Beast was. There, he saw a few dim figures which were the Candora Trio-Lords and the Shadow King's group.

However, both sides were now facing off each other. They were both competing for the Sacred Lion Beast's head. Although there were still three left in Shadow King's group, the Candora Trio-Lords controlled the most valuable treasure of the Candora Empire – the Candora Magic Mirror!

With the Candora Magic Mirror, the Shadow King and the rest were at a disadvantage. Currently, the Candora Magic Mirror had already emerged, floating and glowing with a dim light.

"Hmm? The Candora Magic Mirror contains an almighty beast's will? That's not right, it must be a sacred beast's will!"

Merlin's heart leaped. He seemed to sense a will hidden in the Candora Magic Mirror. Although this will was very faint, Merlin, who could detect the Almighty Beast World's will, was able to easily identify it.

Moreover, he even noticed that the will in the Candora Magic Mirror seemed to be connected to the Almighty Beast World's will.

"Farron, do you know of the Candora Magic Mirror's origins?"

Merlin eyed Farron beside him and asked in a low voice.

Naturally, Farron knew more than Merlin and explained in detail, "The Candora Magic Mirror is the most precious treasure of the Candora Empire that could suppress a nation. It can dispel bindings and of course, wield binding powers. It has various mystical abilities. As for why it's so wondrous, it's because the Candora Magic Mirror contains a strand of a sacred beast's will."

"A sacred beast's will?"

Merlin was shocked but then, he looked toward the Candora Magic Mirror again, feeling an unparalleled fervor. He had merged many almighty beasts' will but the only one he had not merged was a sacred beast's will.

To evolve and progress one step forward, this sacred beast's will was indispensable. With this in mind, Merlin came to a decision. Since he had encountered the Candora Magic Mirror, he was determined to obtain it.

"What, you want the Magic Mirror?"

When he saw that Merlin's gaze was fixed constantly upon the Candora Magic Mirror, Farron asked in a flabbergasted voice. Although Merlin did not affirm nor deny this, his attitude had undoubtedly made his intentions clear.

Farron shook his head powerlessly. "The Candora Magic Mirror isn't so easily obtained. The Candora Empire is willing to let the Candora Trio-Lords bring the Candora Magic Mirror out because they know that no one will snatch the Candora Magic Mirror as it can travel through space!"

"What, travel through space?"

After Merlin came to the Almighty Beast World, he knew that space here was extremely solid to an inconceivable stage. He had never seen any power that was able to break the space, much less travel through it.

"Could it be the sacred beast's will?"

Merlin suddenly recalled the sacred beast's will in the Candora Magic Mirror. Sacred beasts were named so because they had various unimaginable powers.

Based on Merlin's conjecture, if sacred beasts represented a trace of the Almighty Beast World's will, traveling through space would not be a difficult task. The Almighty Beast World's will controlled the entire Almighty Beast World. Traveling through space – what could it count for?

At this thought, Merlin was even more curious about the sacred beast's will. As a peak existence of this world, sacred beasts were the best way for Merlin to understand the Almighty Beast World.

"Regardless of whether the Candora Magic Mirror is truly that mystical, I must give it a try! I'll handle the Candora Trio-Lords!"

Merlin drew in a deep breath and shapeshifted instantly. His fearsome force swiftly pervaded the entire chamber.

"Boom."

In great strides, Merlin rushed wildly toward the Candora Trio-Lords. With Merlin's present capability, just his force alone was equipped with a suppressive advantage, causing the arrogant Candora Trio-Lords to feel immense pressure.

"How is he so strong? He seemed even more formidable!"

The Candora Trio-Lords' expressions changed and they no longer cared about the Shadow King's group. They aimed the Candora Magic Mirror at Merlin at once.

"Magic Mirror, Binding Force!"

"Hum."

As soon as the Candora Trio-Lords spoke, the Candora Magic Mirror trembled slightly. Rings of light were emitted and an invisible restrictive power enveloped Merlin.

"Hmm?"

Merlin felt his entire body stiffened. He was unable to move forward. The unseen Binding Force had restrained him. With Merlin's current formidable strength, a power that could bind him, even if only for a moment, was rare indeed.

"I'm afraid this bit of Binding Force isn't enough!"

Merlin laughed coldly, following which his body swelled again. His overwhelming strength struggled ferociously and the merged almighty beasts' will in his Awareness snarled wildly too as if unhappy about being restricted.

"Buzz buzz buzz."

As Merlin struggled, the Candora Magic Mirror started to quiver as if it would split apart at any time. This was the first time this had happened to the Candora Magic Mirror while facing an opponent.

"Oh no, even the Candora Magic Mirror can't restrain him. How's this possible? How frightening is he?"

As the Candora Trio-Lords stared at the Candora Magic Mirror which constantly quivered, their faces turned deathly white. Even the Candora Magic Mirror could not hold Merlin back. What else could the three of them do?

After all, not everyone had a Supreme Talent like Doomsday's Soul of Light which was just right to subdue Merlin. Furthermore, with Merlin's increased strength now, even Doomsday would be unable to restrict him.

"We must take the Sacred Lion Beast's head with us. Even if we can't bring the entire thing, we must take a part of it! Cut!"

The Candora Trio-Lords yelled as one and produced a flattened hand in the air, slicing the Sacred Lion Beast's head into two halves. Thereafter, the Candora Trio-Lords cried out at the Candora Magic Mirror, "Teleport!"

"Crack."

There was the sound of breaking glass. Merlin distinctly saw that space was shattered and the Candora Magic Mirror glowed with a dusky light that swiftly engulfed the Candora Trio-Lords. In a flash, they flew into pitch-black space.

Traveling through space – the Candora Magic Mirror was indeed able to travel through space!

"Humph! As for you guys, you won't be so lucky…"

When Merlin saw that the Candora Magic Mirror had left through teleportation, his face instantly darkened. As he stared at the Shadow King and the rest, his body exuded an icy, murderous aura.

Chapter 1011: The King's Decision

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

"D*mn it, Shadow King, it's up to you now. My skills aren't really useful here!"

The Phantom King roared furiously. When he saw the remaining half of the Sacred Lion Beast's head, he immediately seized it which let the Shadow King stop Merlin.

"Hehe, leave it to me! If I wish to leave, who can stop me?" The Shadow King stated confidently.

"I'm afraid you won't be going anywhere today!"

Merlin's gaze sharpened. He could not handle the Candora Magic Mirror that could travel through space. Was he really unable to deal with the Shadow King and the rest as well? Currently, Merlin was at his peak form. Even if he encountered Doomsday, he would not fear the Soul of Light because he could tangibly perceive the Almighty Beast World's will. Even the strongest Soul of Light would be unable to baffle the present Merlin.

"Swoosh."

After the Phantom King grabbed half of the Sacred Lion Beast's head, the Shadow King instantly exhibited his Supreme Talent that blanketed the Phantom King and the Liberator, turning them into a large stretch of shadow.

This shadow was just like anyone's shadow, indistinct and faint within the dim secret chamber. It was impossible to guard against. Just as the Shadow King had said, there was truly no one who could stop him if he wanted to leave.

In terms of self-preservation, the Shadow King's ability was the most formidable.

Nonetheless, Merlin was a different person after he had successively consumed the flesh of the Nine-lives Werewolf and Doomsday. He could detect the Almighty Beast World's will, so naturally, he was able to detect even more subtle things. Therefore, in this world, there was almost nothing that could escape Merlin's senses.

"Gotcha."

Merlin's colossal body immediately bore down upon a stretch of shadow.

"Boom."

The fearsome force nearly destroyed the secret chamber. Merlin's huge foot had stomped on a subtle shadow. Even after close observation, one would not see anything. However, after Merlin's stomp, this shadow exuded water-like ripples that shuddered outwards in numerous rings.

"Swoosh."

A few figures came out from the shadow and appeared miserable within the secret chamber. It was the Liberator, the Phantom King, and the Shadow King.

Currently, the Shadow King's face was incomparably downcast while he glared furiously at Merlin as if he could not believe this.

"How did you discover me? Even Farron could not possibly notice me. If I wish to leave, who can stop me?"

The Shadow King was proudest of all, but Merlin still ended up seeing through him. He was astounded in the depths of his heart.

"It's child's play!"

Merlin's eyes flashed with a piercing gleam and his massive bulk leaped forward without warning, galloping straight towards the Shadow King. The Shadow King knew of Merlin's prowess and instantly turned himself into a shadow.

Nonetheless, Merlin could still see every movement Shadow King made and casually smacked a shadow on the ground. The Shadow King immediately let out a cry of pain and was forced to reveal himself. The Shadow King was injured from Merlin's attack at that point after he discovered him once again.

By now, the Shadow King truly believed that Merlin could sense him. He roared in fury as his Supreme Talent unleashed to its maximum. The entire secret chamber was engulfed in an enormous layer of shadow.

"Bang bang bang."

Sounds of attacks suddenly erupted within the shadows. One black tentacle after another burst from the shadows, viciously pounding on Merlin's body. Even so, this bit of attack was unable to stir Merlin at all.

"Too weak, far too weak!"

Merlin shook his head slightly. He shook himself all over. He could neutralize these attacks through just his strength. Following that, he exploded with all his energy. The entire sweep of shadow seemed unable to withstand Merlin's power and rapidly disintegrated.

"Come on out."

Merlin reached out and grabbed, seizing a fistful of shadow firmly in his hand. After that, the shadow gradually transformed into the Shadow King's actual appearance, but he was unable to free himself from Merlin's grasp. Currently, Merlin did not even know how strong he was.

"Leon, let the Shadow King go."

Suddenly, a familiar voice rang out beside Merlin's ear. Merlin carefully looked over and saw that it was the Princess Royal. However, the current Princess Royal wore a slack expression. Clearly, she was being controlled.

"Marquis Leon, let go of the Shadow King quickly."

Other than the Princess Royal, the king was being manipulated as well.

Merlin's eyes turned icy and instantly knew who was behind this.

"Phantom King!"

"Haha, not bad, it's me indeed. Leon, if you don't let go of the Shadow King, I'm afraid that the Princess Royal and the king will die because of you." The Phantom King threatened.

The Shadow King might be the best at self-preservation, but the strangest, most slippery one was actually the Phantom King. He had a myriad of transformations and was difficult to capture. Just like at that moment, he had controlled the king and the Princess Royal which caused one to hold back to prevent the harming of innocents.

To deal with the Phantom King, it was crucial to locate his real body. Only then could one directly deliver a fatal strike. Otherwise, the Phantom King would be very troublesome to deal with; with a myriad of transformations. He was the scariest too. He could wipe out the Holy Dragon City by himself.

Merlin breathed in deeply. He did not care about the king, but the Princess Royal being held hostage was indeed forcing Merlin to hold back from attacking. He could only loosen his grip and toss the Shadow King to one side.

"Swoosh."

The Shadow King instantly turned into a shadow. He vanished from the secret chamber and brought the Phantom King and the rest with him. Merlin knew that they had left the room, and the king and the Princess Royal recovered their senses after being controlled.

As they stared at the underground chamber that was in ruins, the king and the Princess Royal were blank with bewilderment.

"Leon, where's the Shadow King and the rest?" The Princess Royal asked anxiously.

"Both of you were controlled by the Phantom King and taken as hostages to threaten me, so I let them go," Merlin answered honestly. In truth, they did not take much with them. What he needed was the Candora Magic Mirror. It was just a shame that the Magic Mirror had the ability to travel through space, so even Merlin had no way of seizing it by force.

As for the Shadow King and the rest, Merlin did not care.

The king wore a look of sorrow as he stared at the barren secret chamber while he mumbled in an anguished voice, "It's gone, the Sacred Lion Beast's head is gone. The royal family's foundation of a thousand years is going to collapse. I am truly a failure of a king."

Having lost the Sacred Lion Beast's head was the biggest blow to the royal family. This was because, like the Candora Magic Mirror, the Sacred Lion Beast's head was the core of the royal family, but now they had lost even this core.

"Your Majesty, this time, it's good enough that we could protect the royal family. As for the Sacred Lion Beast's head – the royal family had studied it for so long, but what has come of it? Plus, the most significant blood of the Sacred Lion Beast was gone long ago. It's merely a symbol of the royal family."

Farron came to the king's side. Upon seeing the king's desolate manner, Farron could only pacify him. Farron knew that this king had always harbored lofty ambitions deep in his heart. Now that the royal family had fallen to this point, the king's heart was naturally filled with remorse and self-blame.

"King Father, the royal family would come to such a point not just because of your actions alone. The whole royal family is responsible."

The Princess Royal breathed deeply. The royal family was nearly annihilated. Now, the Princess Royal finally understood that the royal family as a whole. Even her greatest aspirations would amount to nothing if the royal family was gone. Some of her previous thoughts and behavior seemed like a joke from the current perspective.

The king glanced at the Princess Royal, then looked towards Merlin who was behind her, and suddenly let out a long sigh. A bitter smile crossed his face. "Maybe, Lisa, it's best if you act as king. You have more drive than your father!"

After the king spoke, he slowly closed his eyes, as if he had come to a decision in his heart, a decision that would change the fate of the whole Holy Dragon Empire…

Chapter 1012: Real or Fake

Currently, the most important figures of the empire were gathered in the palace of the faraway Candora Empire. They were waiting to see if they obtained the Sacred Lion Beast's head from the Holy Dragon Empire.

Although it was only half, it was enough to make the upper brass of the Candora Empire mad. The Holy Dragon Empire had established the foundation of a millennium because of this Sacred Lion Beast head.

"Haha, Trio-Lords, you've done well. You've made great contributions to obtain the Sacred Lion Beast's head!"

The Candora King, who was sitting on the throne, saluted the Candora Trio-Lords. These Trio-Lords looked identical and had become ultimate contenders. It was basically a miracle.

However, they did not have any thoughts of competing with the King, and instead became the most powerful sword of the Candora Empire. The Trio-Lords, together with the Magic Mirror, had few rivals. This time, if not for the sudden appearance of the abnormality, Leon, they would have brought back the entire head of the Sacred Lion Beast.

"Your Majesty, we are really ashamed that we failed to bring back the complete Sacred Lion Beast's head," the Candora Trio-Lords said regretfully.

The Candora Trio-Lords did not know about Merlin at all but after returning to the Candora Empire, they learned that even Doomsday had died long ago by Merlin's hands. They knew that the Holy Dragon Empire would not be destroyed as long as Merlin existed. Merlin's name was destined to resound throughout the continent.

"The Holy Dragon Empire has stood for millennia, so it naturally won't fall that easily. It's already very good that you were able to bring back half of the Sacred Lion Beast's head. Now, let's take a look at this Sacred Lion Beast's head."

The King was also full of curiosity. The Sacred Lion Beast's head was the greatest secret of the Holy Dragon Empire. If not for the civil strife in the Holy Dragon Empire, it would be impossible to obtain the Sacred Lion Beast's head by relying on the Candora Trio-Lords alone.

"Bring it here."

The Candora Trio-Lords clapped and called for people to bring the Sacred Lion Beast's head in. The huge head was immediately displayed in front of everyone. Even though it was only half, anyone who saw this head would be shocked.

"This is the Sacred Lion Beast's head?"

Many core figures of the Candora Empire, including some ultimate contenders, all stared at the Sacred Lion Beast's head with intense eyes, as if wanting to see the secrets of the Sacred Beast.

When one became an ultimate contender, there was almost no difference in their boundary although there were still high and low points in strength.

No one was at a higher level.

Countless ultimate contenders had one common point of view after a long period of analysis, and that was that ultimate contenders had already developed the power of the bloodline to the limit. It was similar to the terrifying peak almighty beasts back in the ancient era.

If they wanted to go further, it would be the realm of a Sacred Beast. The next step for an ultimate contender was Sacred Beasts. However, no one had ever seen what a Sacred Beast looked like, much less how terrifying its power was.

That was because Sacred Beasts had been extinct for a long time, and no one had ever seen a Sacred Beast before. There was only a small trace of a Sacred Beast's will in the Candora Magic Mirror and was not useful at all. Even so, the Candora Magic Mirror had the terrifying ability to teleport through space, which served to show how frightening a Sacred Beast was.

Perhaps the next step for an ultimate contender was not a Sacred Beast, or perhaps if an ultimate contender could take a step further, they would really step into the realm of almighty beasts. No one knew the truth. This was all speculation among the ultimate contenders.

Therefore, the Sacred Lion Beast's head was incredibly precious because it was the real corpse of a Sacred Beast.

"There doesn't seem to be anything special about this Sacred Lion Beast's head besides its huge size. Perhaps that unique aura is different from regular almighty beasts, but has anyone else noticed that that unique aura is rapidly disappearing," an ultimate existence said after realizing something while frowning.

"An aura?"

The Candora Trio-Lords sensed carefully. Indeed, in the beginning, they sensed an aura that was completely different from an ordinary almighty beast. The domineering and vastness of the aura made them feel their insignificance.

That was why they believed that this was truly the Sacred Lion Beast's head. However, thinking about it now, how vast was the aura that they felt in the Holy Dragon City's secret chamber? It was not like this one, where it seemed like it would disappear at any moment.

"This…"

While the Candora Trio-Lords were puzzled, the unique aura on the Sacred Lion Beast's head completely disappeared and could no longer be sensed.

"Crack."

At the same time, the Sacred Lion Beast's head began to crack, and the crack spread, just like a spider web, across the head in the blink of an eye.

"Boom."

Finally, the huge Sacred Lion Beast's head crumbled with a loud noise, turning into debris and scattered all over the ground. A blanket of smoke filled the entire hall.

The next moment, the hall fell into a deathly silence.

"No… the Holy Dragon Empire, the Holy Dragon royal family, they outwitted us this time!"

At that moment, the Candora Trio-Lords finally realized that the Sacred Lion Beast's head was fake, and had been fake since the beginning. Perhaps the King was telling the truth, but the Sacred Lion Beast's head was fake. No one knew when the royal family switched out the Sacred Lion Beast's head.

The Candora Trio-Lords knelt on the ground and said lowly, "Please punish us, Your Majesty."

Not only did they end up empty-handed this time, they even used the power of the Candora Magic Mirror. Even if there was an almighty beast will, traveling through space was not a power that ordinary people could grasp. Each time the Candora Magic Mirror was activated, it cost an unimaginably huge price.

The King's eyes were cold. He looked in the direction of the Holy Dragon Empire in the distance and sneered. "The Holy Dragon Empire is indeed an ancient empire with millennia of history. This time, we'll admit defeat!"

The King also knew that with 'Leon's' appearance, the Candora Empire could not do anything even if they were furious.

Meanwhile, besides the Candora Empire, Shadow King and the others also realized that their half of the Sacred Lion Beast's head was fake. Although they were furious, they did not dare to go to the Holy Dragon Empire again.

Out of the five rebel leaders, only three remained, while the three elders of the royal family were only injured. The situation of the entire empire had changed quietly.

Perhaps, what was next were painful days for the rebel.

…

At the same time, there was a jubilant atmosphere at the Princess Royal's main hall in the Holy Dragon City. That was because the next day was the day when the Princess Royal would be crowned King.

The King had been disheartened and voluntarily abdicated and passed the throne to the Princess Royal. The Princess Royal had also deployed a force that resulted in almost all the ministers to support her ascension to the throne.

Therefore, the next day was bound to be a day that caught everyone's attention. Similarly, perhaps the entire Holy Dragon Empire would change and grow with new vitality with her ascension.

The Princess Royal wore a hastily made crown full of precious stones on her head. Under the dim light, it looked incomparably beautiful.

Soon, there was a burst of concentrated footsteps outside the palace, and Merlin marched in. No one dared to stop him. Everyone knew that Merlin was the Princess Royal's closest confidant.

Merlin walked into the palace, his eyes tightly fixed on the Princess Royal. Suddenly, he said slowly, "Lisa, I just received news from Phantom's Intelligence Team that the Sacred Lion Beast's head taken by the Candora Empire and Shadow King is fake. Did you already know?"

Although Merlin's tone was calm, everyone could feel the coldness in his voice.

Chapter 1013: The Truth of the Sacred Beast's Head

"Fake?"

Adorned with a crown, the Princess Royal looked dignified and noble. She was about to become king. Her long-cherished wish for many years would finally be realized.

Looking at Merlin's cold eyes, Lisa shook her head and said, "How can that be? Leon, you saw King Father. When he saw how the Sacred Lion Beast's head ended up, he was heartbroken and even passed the throne to me. Did he look like he was faking it?"

Merlin thought carefully for a moment. Indeed, the King's heartbroken expression was impossible to fake. In other words, the King truly believed that the Sacred Lion Beast's head had been taken away.

If the King did not know, how did the Princess Royal know?

"Lisa, since you don't know that the Sacred Lion Beast's head is fake, what does this mean? Who has the ability to replace the Sacred Lion Beast's head?"

Merlin frowned. The Sacred Lion Beast's head would not be easily replaced. First of all, it was not easy to enter the secret chamber where the Sacred Lion Beast's head was located. One had to be a descendant of the royal family with very strong blood ties.

Besides the King and the Princess Royal, who else had this ability?

"Leon, the truth is, our royal family has a fourth elder!"

"A fourth elder?"

Merlin was shocked. In the tense situation earlier, only three elders appeared. Merlin thought that there had only been three ultimate contenders in the royal family.

Moreover, those three ultimate contenders were seriously injured.

Unexpectedly, the royal family still had a fourth ultimate contender. However, why did the fourth elder not appear earlier? The royal family had almost collapsed!

Lisa continued, "That's right, a fourth elder. That elder never shows up no matter the danger, because he represents the last hope of the royal family. Besides guarding the royal family's Sacred Lion Beast's head, he also guards the most precious royal family treasure vault. Treasures collected over a thousand years are stored there. Even if the royal family is overthrown and the Holy Dragon Empire collapses, the royal family can survive and even rise again one day as long as we have these treasures and that ultimate contender!"

The Princess Royal's expression was also a little complicated. The King had told this to Lisa, who was about to become king. She had to know about this.

Merlin took a deep breath. This was the practice of the royal family for a millennia. Even if the royal family was overthrown, it was necessary to retain its strength. As for the lives and deaths of other people, it was not important at all.

After a long while, Merlin asked in a deep voice, "In other words, it was the fourth elder who replaced the Sacred Lion Beast's head?"

"We'll find out if it was the fourth elder as soon as we ask."

There was a sly smile on the Princess Royal's face. Now, the Princess Royal seemed to be calm and collected no matter what happened.

Merlin nodded. He also wanted to meet the fourth elder of the royal family. Furthermore, he had coveted the almighty beasts' will in the royal family's treasure vault from the beginning. If he could get to it, he could probably improve again.

Therefore, Merlin followed the Princess Royal and walked deep into the palace without any royal guards.

The whole royal palace was very large and there are many hidden areas. After all, the royal family had ruled the Holy Dragon Empire for more than a thousand years. If it was not for the time when Doomsday collaborated with the Candora Empire, the Sacred Lion Beast's head would not have been taken away.

The Princess Royal arrived at an ordinary palace. There was a mechanism on the wall, and a little press made a secret passage appear on the ground.

After entering the dark passage, Merlin could feel that the passage was all the way underground. After walking for a while, a faint light appeared before them as if they had reached the end.

Soon, Lisa and Merlin arrived at a secret chamber. Inside, there was an old man with white hair and a youthful face. He looked energetic and healthy. At that time, his eyes were shut and he did not seem to notice Merlin or the Princess Royal.

"Elder."

Lisa gently saluted the old man. After all, the old man is also an elder of the royal family and the guardian of the treasure vault.

Merlin frowned and looked around. Behind the old man was a thick stone gate with many strange patterns. Presumably, behind the stone gate was the treasure vault where the royal family had stored their treasures in for a thousand years.

"Princess Royal, or should I say, Your Highness. As for the person beside you, you should be Marquis Leon, the one who prevailed over the Candora Trio-Lords and Doomsday."

The elder who had his eyes closed suddenly opened his eyes. There was a sharp color in his eyes, but it soon softened.

Although the elder had always stayed in the secret chamber to guard the treasure vault, he knew what had happened to the royal family.

"Ancestor, we're here to ask you something," the Princess Royal said calmly.

"Oh? What is it?"

The elder's eyes had always been fixed on Merlin as if he wanted to see how Merlin defeated the Candora Trio-Lords and Doomsday. The royal family had been saved by the hands of a single person.

"Elder, it's about the Sacred Lion Beast's head. You should also know that the Sacred Lion Beast's head was taken away by the Candora Trio-Lords and Shadow King and other rebels in the last revolt, but now it is said that the Sacred Lion Beast's head they had was fake. We've come to ask the elder if the Sacred Lion Beast's head was replaced by you."

After the Princess Royal finished speaking, she stared at the elder closely. Merlin also paid attention to the elder and carefully observed every change of his expression.

However, hearing the Princess Royal's question, the elder merely sighed for a long time and closed his eyes. He shook his head slightly and said, "Who could have replaced the Sacred Lion Beast's head. It has always been there."

"That's impossible. Our scouts have already found out that the Sacred Lion Beast's head obtained by the Candora Empire and Shadow King was obviously fake," Lisa said firmly.

"Of course it's fake. That's because the Sacred Lion Beast's head disappeared long ago," the elder said with a wry smile.

"What? Disappeared long ago?"

Both Merlin and the Princess Royal were shocked by the elder's words. The Sacred Lion Beast's head had disappeared long ago. In other words, the Sacred Lion Beast's head in the underground secret chamber had always been fake?

"That's right, the Sacred Lion Beast's head was defeated. About a hundred years ago, the Sacred Lion Beast's head seemed to have reached its limit. It began to break up bit by bit and finally turned into a pile of dust. We don't know the reason, and it's said that the body of a Sacred Beast would never decay, but the fact is that the Sacred Lion Beast's head really disappeared. That's why, in the past hundred years, the descendants of the royal family had become weaker and weaker, and they couldn't even become full shifters. It was because the Sacred Lion Beast's head had disappeared."

"The Sacred Lion Beast's head is the foundation of the royal family. Its disappearance represents the decline of the royal family. Of course, this news cannot be known to the outside world. Therefore, after consulting with the king at that time, several elders finally used special methods to put the fake Sacred Lion Beast's head into the secret chamber and then sealed some of the Sacred Lion Beast's head unique aura into the body of the fake head, so as to achieve the situation of falsification. Unexpectedly, the royal family ended up this way… "

Merlin and the Princess Royal looked at each other. Surprisingly, the Candora Trio-Lords and Shadow King were fighting for the Sacred Lion Beast's head, but it was actually fake.

Chapter 1014: Royal Family's Treasure Vault

"Fake…"

Merlin was speechless. It turned out that everything was fake. The so-called 'Sacred Lion Beast's head' they guarded was just a joke.

After a long while, the Princess Royal slowly opened her mouth and asked, "Elder, can I enter this treasure vault for a while?"

The Princess Royal knew that Merlin had done a lot to deal with the Candora Trio-Lords and Doomsday, but she had not given him any benefits.

Titles and territory were worth nothing to Merlin. However, there had to be something in the treasure vault that would satisfy Merlin.

Merlin's heart moved as he immediately understood the Princess Royal's meaning. What was most valuable to Merlin were the almighty beasts' will in the treasure vault. After all, the accumulation of the royal family for a thousand years must be unimaginable.

The elder looked at the Princess Royal and stepped aside before he calmly said, "The Princess Royal is about to become the King and naturally can enter the treasure vault. However, Marquis Leon must stay outside."

This was the royal family's treasure vault. No matter how close the relationship with the royal family, an outsider would not be allowed to enter. Even Farron had never entered the treasure vault before.

Merlin nodded and watched the Princess Royal enter the treasure vault behind the elder. Then, the gate to the treasure vault closed and the secret chamber fell into silence.

"Marquis Leon, I heard you fought against the tide and killed the Nine-lives Werewolf as well as Doomsday. You even forced the Candora Trio-Lords to run away by using the Candora Magic Mirror."

The elder's eyes twinkled spiritedly. Such a major event naturally could not be concealed.

Thus, Merlin nodded his head and said, "It's just a fluke."

"It's not a fluke…"

Merlin took a deep breath and suddenly asked, "Elder, you may have been in the royal family for a long time and should have encountered the real Sacred Lion Beast's head. What's so special about the Sacred Lion Beast's head?"

Merlin suddenly understood why he did not have any other reaction when he saw the Sacred Lion Beast's head. It turned out that it was just a fake. Only some of the Sacred Lion Beast's aura was sealed in it.

It was precisely because of that that it deceived a lot of people. Even the Candora Trio-Lords and Shadow King spent a lot of energy to get to the Holy Dragon City but ultimately failed.

"The sacred beast…"

The elder thought about it and closed his eyes slightly as if he was recalling it. After a long time, the elder said slowly, "The biggest difference between the sacred beast and other almighty beasts is the will in their bodies. In the beginning, although there was only the head left, there was still a vast will. It was as if it represented the whole world, and was stable. With that will, the sacred beast became eminent and distant, and it was hard to even approach it. However, for some reason, the will gradually weakened and then disappeared completely. The head of the Sacred Lion Beast gradually decayed and disappeared."

Thinking about the will in the Sacred Lion Beast's head, the elder appeared excited, as if he could not forget it after feeling it once.

"Will?"

Merlin suddenly looked up above the secret chamber, like he had seen through the secret chamber and saw the sky directly. If he guessed well, the sacred beast's will was a part of the Almighty Beast World's will.

It was a pity that the Sacred Lion Beast's head had disappeared. Otherwise, being able to feel that will or even merging with it would have an unimaginable improvement on Merlin's strength.

"It seems I'll have to make preparations to visit the Candora Empire."

Merlin thought of the sacred beast will sealed in the Candora Magic Mirror. Merlin did not covet the Candora Magic Mirror, but the sacred beast will that had been sealed in it was irresistible to Merlin and he was determined to get it.

"Marquis Leon, I hear you're a Host?" The elder hesitated but asked anyway. His bright eyes were still fixed on Merlin.

"That's right, I'm a Host!"

Merlin did not hide it. It was something that could not be concealed at all. His Supreme Talent was incredibly poor and no ultimate contender had such a weak Supreme Talent. That only proved that Merlin was a Host because only Hosts were different from regular ultimate contenders.

Still, even the elder had not seen a Host that could rival an ultimate contender. The most he had seen were full-shifters.

"Hosts really are amazing. It's said that the most powerful Host is only as strong as a full-shifter, and is far from rivaling an ultimate contender. However, Marquis Leon is an exception. You have few rivals now. You even defeated the Candora Trio-Lords. I'm afraid you are the strongest Host ever! In fact, Marquis Leon, you have created a living legend!"

The most powerful Host in history, this was not an exaggeration; Merlin truly deserved the title. In the crisis earlier, he defeated the Candora Trio-Lords and killed the Nine-lives Werewolf as well as Doomsday. This valiant accomplishment was enough to push Merlin to the top.

Merlin's achievements had not spread to the surrounding areas yet, but with the passage of time and the word of mouth from other contenders, Merlin would probably set off a storm in the whole continent as the strongest Host ever!

"A Host. Who would have thought that a Host would be so powerful? Perhaps for you Hosts, the final step is to become a sacred beast," the elder said emotionally. He had lived for a long time and had seen too many prodigies. He had seen the sacred beast's head and felt its will before.

He knows that the will alone was far from what an ordinary ultimate contender could imagine. It was like one was heaven and the other was earth, and could not be compared with at all.

It was too difficult for an ordinary ultimate contender to take the last step and become a sacred beast. There was no direction at all. In these years, where had there ever been a great existence that had reached the level of a sacred beast?

Ordinary ultimate contenders did not have such a capability, but the strongest Host in history had emerged. Maybe Merlin had the chance to take the last step.

The two continued to chat. About three hours later, the door of the treasure vault opened and the Princess Royal exited.

"Did you find it?" Merlin asked eagerly. The almighty beasts' will were what Merlin was most concerned about.

There was a mysterious smile on the corner of the Princess Royal's mouth, but she did not answer directly. Instead, she said goodbye to the elder who guarded the treasure vault, "Elder, we'll leave first. Please continue to protect the royal family's treasure vault."

"Haha, don't worry, Princess Royal. As long as I'm alive, the treasure vault will be safe."

The treasure vault was the most important place. It was originally the only important place besides the Sacred Lion Beast's head, but now that it was discovered that the Sacred Lion Beast's head had long disappeared, the treasure vault had become the most important place for the royal family.

It was no wonder that this elder had always been guarding the treasure vault and did not stop the Candora Trio-Lord and the others from stealing the Sacred Lion Beast's head in the secret chamber. He knew that the Sacred Lion Beast's head had already disappeared. Now, the most important thing to the royal family was the treasure vault.

Merlin looked at Lisa. Although she had not answered his question, her expression actually revealed a little information.

After they left the secret chamber and returned to the palace, Merlin continued to ask, "Lisa, have you found the almighty beasts' will?"

Almighty beasts' will were very important to Merlin.

There was a charming smile on the Princess Royal's face as she said, "Not only did I find it, there's also… You'll be shocked!"

Chapter 1015: Chance

"Shocked?"

Merlin's eyes brightened. Did the Princess Royal encounter something great?

"You'll know after seeing."

After saying that, the Princess Royal took out a jade bead from her bosom. It looked round and beautiful but it was very big, around the size of a baby's fist.

"This is?"

Merlin took the jade bead and immediately felt the surging almighty beasts' will inside the jade bead. Even if they were not strong there were many almighty beasts' will in the jade bead.

Delighted, Merlin hurriedly extended his consciousness into the jade bead and suddenly saw a sea of almighty beasts' will. There were too many of them to count. At a glance, there seemed to be thousands of almighty beasts' will.

There were thousands of almighty beasts' will, it was almost unimaginably powerful. If an ordinary person immersed their consciousness into it, they would be shocked to death by these wild almighty beasts' will.

However, Merlin was very happy. It was just a pity that these almighty beasts' will were low-tier.

"Not bad. Although they're all low-tier almighty beasts' will, there is a considerable number of them."

Merlin was extremely satisfied. He did not know how far his almighty beast's body would be pushed after fusing so many almighty beasts' will. Would he come close to a sacred beast? Or perhaps he could actually become a sacred beast.

This was something that even Merlin could not predict.

The Princess Royal smiled mysteriously, and a jade bead suddenly appeared in her hand again. She said with a smile, "Leon, look again, what else is inside?"

"There's more?"

When Merlin took the jade bead in the Princess Royal's hand, his expression suddenly changed as he was stunned. He was truly shocked because there were at least two hundred mid-tier almighty beasts' will in the jade bead.

Each of the almighty beasts' will represented an almighty beast, so two hundred mid-tier almighty beasts' represented two hundred mid-tier almighty beasts. That was extremely terrifying. The era of ancient almighty beasts had been over long ago, so it was hard to imagine that so many mid-tier almighty beasts were collected.

It was no wonder that the Princess Royal called it 'shocking.' It was truly astonishing.

"Haha, Lisa, this is a great help!" Merlin laughed happily. This was the greatest benefit he had received since coming to this world.

However, the Princess Royal shook her head and smiled mysteriously. "What is this much? Leon, how simple do you think the treasures that our royal family had accumulated for a thousand years are? There's another jade bead here that might be even more useful to you!"

The Princess Royal took out another jade bead from her bosom. However, this jade bead looked a little strange. It was different from the first two jade beads. There were beautiful designs on it and it looked very unique.

Merlin's consciousness extended into it.

"Boom."

Merlin experienced the terrifying roars immediately after entering. Twenty-six extremely powerful almighty beasts' will charged madly towards Merlin's consciousness.

These twenty-six almighty beasts' will were all high-tier. Merlin had only encountered a few high-tier almighty beasts before.

"Twenty-six high-tier almighty beasts' will…"

A smile appeared on Merlin's face. The Princess Royal indeed gave him a big present. It was a gift more precious than anything else.

The Princess Royal asked with a charming smile, "How is it? Are you satisfied with this gift? If you are, stay and satisfy me as well… "

Looking at the charming and affectionate Princess Royal, Merlin did not stand on ceremony. He immediately embraced the Princess Royal and entered the inner chamber. For a while, the entire hall was quiet, left with only resounding moans…

…

In the Holy Dragon City's castle, Merlin spent some time with his two wives and dealt with some family affairs. However, what worried the two beautiful wives was that there had not been any changes with their stomachs. Perhaps it was because Merlin's body was too strong, which made it hard for them to have children.

After a period of no results, Merlin could only put this aside for now. He had more important matters to deal with like absorbing the 'gift' from the Princess Royal.

Merlin entered the underground secret chamber after telling the housekeeper that no one was allowed to disturb him. Although no one could hurt him with his current strength, Merlin still wanted to be fully prepared. He sighed in relief after the basement was completely sealed.

The reason why Merlin was so serious and cautious this time was because he was going to do something very important. He believed that this was a key step for him to take, and was likely to restore the Illusory World.

With a flick of his hands, the three jade beads appeared in his palm. The value of these three jade beads was priceless in Merlin's heart. At that moment, Merlin, as a Host, combined with his identity as a Mind Power Master, had devoured and integrated almighty beasts' will; which paved an unusual path.

However, Merlin still could not feel the limit. His goal was to restore the Illusory World, or even turn illusion into reality. His Illusory World was suppressed by this world so strongly that it was rendered completely useless.

"Titus, are you ready? Keep an eye on the Illusory World's changes," Merlin said to Titus in the Illusory World.

"Don't worry, Merlin. I'll pay attention to any changes in the Illusory World. I'm really looking forward to it. In this Almighty Beast World, your misfortune might have been a blessing which let you find the true essence of materializing using the Illusory World," Titus said with emotion.

Merlin took a deep breath, then took out the first jade bead which had thousands of low-tier almighty beasts' will sealed inside.

When Merlin's consciousness entered the jade bead, he felt the countless roars again.

"Fusion!"

Merlin roared. Suddenly, his consciousness became a whirlpool as he began to absorb and devour the almighty beasts' will. A stream of low-tier almighty beasts' will was swallowed and integrated by Merlin.

Although all of them were low-tier almighty beasts' will which may not bring any changes to Merlin, his almighty beast body gradually started to change as the number increased.

First, his body became even larger and expanded at a speed visible to the naked eye. His blood rushed as his terrifying aura spread in all directions.

Merlin felt that the Almighty Beast World had become clearer. This was a gradual process that required a lot of almighty beasts' will.

His body was constantly growing stronger and even Merlin did not know how powerful he had become. At that time, the thousands of almighty beasts' will were completely swallowed up.

"Next!"

Merlin then started to merge the mid-tier almighty beasts' will in the second jade bead.

"Boom boom boom."

This time, the Illusory World in Merlin's consciousness finally changed and grew stronger along with his body. The barriers of his Illusory World also strengthened to an unimaginable point. Even if he did not cultivate his Mind Power anymore, his Illusory World still continued to expand slowly.

Moreover, the world's core natural order was also condensing little by little. Although it was very slow, it was still a great change. Merlin would never have even dreamt of this in the past. Now, the Illusory World could recover slowly.

"Limit. I need to reach the limit!"

Merlin's heart raced as he devoured the two hundred mid-tier almighty beasts' will. His body had grown to a size too large to imagine and he seemed to be able to touch the faint but powerful will.

"The Almighty Beast World's will?"

Merlin murmured. He opened his eyes and began to devour the almighty beasts' will in the third jade bead without hesitation, which were the twenty-six high-tier almighty beasts' will.

"Fusion!"

Merlin instantly devoured the twenty-six almighty beasts' will, and the Illusory World expanded again. These twenty-six high-tier almighty beasts' will naturally were no threat to Merlin.

"Boom."

Finally, Merlin could feel the omnipresent tyrannical will. The Almighty Beast World's will was within his reach.

However, Merlin reached the limit at that moment. He knew that no matter the number of almighty beasts' will, they would not have any effect on him anymore. He needed a sacred beast will!

"It's amazing, Merlin. Do you feel it? It's incredible. The Illusory World is recovering at an unimaginable speed…"

Titus's voice sounded. The Illusory World seemed to be recovering rapidly because Merlin formed a special will. However, the world's natural order, which was the core, was forming very slowly.

Merlin's heart was calm and he said in a low voice, "I already know that the Illusory World did not form a natural order. It's very difficult to recover the power from the Void Zone, let alone fight against the Almighty Beast World. I need a sacred beast's will. Only by devouring a sacred beast's will would I understand the mystery of this world. The natural order would also form quickly. By then, it would be able to recover to its state back in the Void Zone, and hopefully even materialize illusions into reality!"

This was what Merlin came to understand after devouring and merging so many almighty beasts' will. No one knew more about the Illusory World than him.

The swiftness of the Illusory World's recovery let Merlin think of a way, which was will. The world's will!

All the almighty beasts in the Almighty Beast World was part of the Almighty Beast World's will, but they were very weak. Yet, sacred beasts truly represented a part of the huge Almighty Beast World's will.

The Illusory World itself was a world. Although it was an imaginary world, it could become a perfect world that could materialize illusion into reality. Devouring the world's will was impossible in the Void Zone because the Void Zone's will was a complete entity.

However, in the Almighty Beast World, the world's will was scattered in various places, and the sacred beast from the ancient era occupied a large part of the world's will.

This was Merlin's chance to restore the Illusory World!

Chapter 1016: Clean Up I

"Merlin, is there really a chance for the Illusory World to recover?" Titus asked excitedly. He had despaired ever since Merlin came to the Almighty Beast World. The will of this world is strong and oppressive and it would be destroyed if only a little force was leaked from the Illusory World.

Moreover, there was no way to cultivate Mind Power, which made Merlin lose confidence in restoring the Illusory World.

However, his body had truly reached its limit with the integration of a large number of almighty beast worlds. Besides sacred beasts, Merlin was almost invincible now. There was no ultimate contender strong enough to threaten him. Despite that, he was still one step short, and that was a sacred beast will or the world's will.

The Almighty Beast World's will was scattered and incomplete. This was Merlin's chance to restore the Illusory World!

"Titus, perhaps we'll be able to leave the Almighty Beast World soon."

There was a smile at the corner of Merlin's mouth. It was the first time he felt hope in leaving. Of course, Merlin wanted to be able to use the Illusory World to materialize illusions into reality.

Only in that way could he become a Latitude traveler like Aruba and experience Latitude Cosmos after Latitude Cosmos.

"Haha, in that case, I'll wait for your good news, Merlin…"

Titus disappeared into the Illusory World again and Merlin slowly resumed his normal appearance. Now, his physical quality had reached a new level. Even if he did not shapeshift, he possessed terrifying strength that was not inferior to his power from before.

Merlin had been in the secret chamber for a few months but he had not felt the passage of time. Yet, the outside world had been turned upside down.

After he left the secret chamber and returned to the castle, Merlin listened to the direct report from Shiya of Phantom's Intelligence Team. Since Merlin defeated the Candora Trio-Lords and the others, the King abdicated, and Farron also disappeared. It was assumed that he wanted to retire and did not want to interfere in the affairs of the Holy Dragon Empire anymore.

Therefore, Merlin took over Phantom's Intelligence Team, and naturally, no one had any objections.

"Sir Minister, many things have happened in the Holy Dragon Empire. Since Her Majesty became King, she had begun to use the power of Phantom's Intelligence Team to organize several armies and use the royal family's financial resources as support to start an all-round attack on the rebels. Now, except for the three rebel leaders, all the other rebels are in a state of collapse. Half of the Holy Dragon Empire's cities are already in the hands of the empire. To be precise, they're in the hands of the royal family. The royal family did not confer any new aristocrats and lords."

Shiya slowly reported the changes of the Holy Dragon Empire in recent months. Since the Princess Royal became king, she has made large moves. The rebel forces greatly declined since two of the five rebel leaders died. As a result, Lisa launched an attack immediately, bringing half of the territory of the Holy Dragon Empire into her hands.

Moreover, there were no new lords and aristocrats, which meant that these cities would be directly controlled by the royal family. On the surface, it seemed like the Holy Dragon Empire was controlled by the royal family alone, but the truth was that it was actually ruled by both the royal family and the aristocrats. Some powerful lords and nobles could even compete with the royal family.

However, at the start when catastrophe swept over the whole of the Holy Dragon Empire, almost all lords and nobles disappeared, except the royal family, and their territories fell to the hands of the rebels; in turn, it created the best conditions for the royal family. After the royal family regained the city from the rebels, they managed it once more.

Moreover, there would not be any aristocrats in the Holy Dragon Empire in the future, according to Lisa's plan. She had built a powerful empire that was completely controlled by the royal family!

Lisa had talked about these things in detail with Merlin but he was not interested at all. If he wanted to, he could seize any empire as his own, no matter how large it was. Not even Lisa knew how terrifying Merlin was at that point.

"Lisa didn't encounter any problems?" Merlin suddenly asked suspiciously as he raised his head.

"Not for the time being. The royal family's hidden power is still very powerful. Moreover, the Candora Empire has not intervened yet. They seem to be worried about the Minister," Shiya's eyes flashed as she said that. Originally, Phantom's Intelligence Team paid close attention to the Candora Empire. The Candora Empire also took advantage of the Holy Dragon Empire's chaos to bring its army in and cause mayhem. However, the Candora Empire had no intention of intervening at that moment and the royal family gradually gained control over the Holy Dragon Empire.

How powerful was Phantom's Intelligence Team? Naturally, Shiya knew that in the first battle, Merlin defeated the Candora Empire and he had even killed two rebel ultimate contenders. Merlin's name now resounded throughout the entire continent as the number one contender.

Therefore, the reason why the Candora Empire changed its mind was that they were too wary about Merlin. Just Merlin himself caused a huge empire to worry. It was inconceivable for Shiya to imagine. After all, Merlin had just become a full-shifter not long ago.

"Still, I'm afraid Her Majesty will encounter some difficulties. The three rebel leaders have joined forces. It seems they're ready for a decisive battle."

If the three rebel leaders really decided to fight to the death, the three elders of the royal family might not be a match for the three rebel leaders even if they recovered without the Sacred Lion Beast's head's aura to slightly suppress these ultimate contenders.

Furthermore, situations change rapidly on the battlefield and no one could say clearly what would happen in the end. It would be hard for Lisa to make a firm resolution without the guarantee of victory.

"It seems that it's time for me to enter the palace."

Merlin stood up. He knew that Lisa must be very distressed at this time.

"By the way, collect all information about the Candora Magic Mirror. Remember, I want the most detailed information. It can even be exposed to the intelligence personnel of the Candora Empire. Do anything it takes!"

Merlin ordered Shiya before leaving the castle. He got into a carriage and headed towards the royal family.

…

At this time in the palace, the Princess Royal, who was now Her Majesty, was frowning. As soon as she ascended the throne, she made big advances and attacked the rebels.

However, the effect was obvious after the series of attacks. The royal family recovered half of all cities, but when they pushed against the three rebel leaders' forces, they could not advance any further. That was because the three rebel leaders had joined forces and were getting ready for a decisive battle against the Holy Dragon royal family.

The three rebel leaders could fight to the death, but the queen could not. Therefore, the queen was in distress. The three elders of the royal family had not recovered yet, and even if they had, they would not leave the Holy Dragon City. Their duty was only to protect the royal family. As for the expansion of the royal family or recapturing the empire's cities, the three ancestors would not pay any heed.

"Your Majesty, Marquis Leon requests an audience with you."

"Leon?"

The Queen was slightly shocked but soon became ecstatic. Ever since Merlin went into isolation, she had sent several people to 'invite' Merlin, but there had not been any news. The Queen even thought that Merlin was not willing to interfere in the affairs of the Holy Dragon Empire.

She did not expect Merlin to come here now.

"Quick, quick, invite Marquis Leon in," the Queen said with delight.

Before long, Merlin came to the hall and saw Lisa, who was full of energy and carried a dignified aura. He called out calmly, "Lisa, I heard you seem to be in some trouble?"

The Queen did not mind Merlin's casual address. What was a mere title worth in Merlin's position? He was able to help the Queen quickly pacify the entire Holy Dragon Empire.

"Leon, you're just in time. I went to your castle a few times to look for you, but I was stopped by your housekeeper, saying that you were in isolation and no one was allowed to disturb you."

"It's thanks to your gift. I heard that you were in trouble immediately after exiting isolation."

Lisa frowned and sighed. "It's true that I've encountered some problems. They're problems that were handed down. The Shadow King, Phantom King, and the Liberator have completely united. They want to fight me to the death, but I'm not inclined to do the same. I'm afraid we will be defeated if we fight it out with them."

The Queen knew very well that she did not have the determination to fight to the death. Once a real war started, she would probably be defeated. That was why she was in distress.

Merlin smiled and said calmly, "Last time, I let the Shadow King escape. Why don't you let me go this time? Take it as my repayment for your gift. After I finish this, I'll help you stabilize the Holy Dragon Empire. However, I'm afraid I'll be leaving after that."

"Ah? You're leaving?"

"Yes, I need the Candora Magic Mirror. It might help me make the final step!"

Lisa fell silent. Of course, she knew what Merlin meant by the last step. It was the dream of all ultimate contenders to reach the realm of the legendary sacred beast.

However, for a thousand years, no one had been able to take this step. No matter how amazing the person was, they all fell in front of this last step. Now that Merlin had made his mind up, Lisa knew that she could not stop him.

"Alright, Leon, as long as you can get rid of the Shadow King and the others, there'll be no power in the Holy Dragon Empire that can compete with the royal family.

Merlin nodded. "I want to advance as soon as possible."

"I'll arrange everything!"

After a momentary lapse of sadness, Lisa became shrewd and capable again. She was always ambitious and full of the desire for power. Perhaps, unifying the Holy Dragon Empire was just the first step for her but Merlin would not help her realize her ambition anymore. He still needed to find the last step to find a way to restore the Illusory World.

Merlin did not stay back in the palace. After leaving the palace, he soared in the sky and flew to the place where the Shadow King and the others were.