Chapter 577: Illusion? Reality?
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
The Blackfire Lord just lowered his head, and did not speak for a long time. The dilemma on his face was clearly visible.
After a moment, Wizard Setoh shook his head helplessly and sighed. "Very well, this is your own choice! However, my real body is in the Seely Dimension. The Rock Tribe seems poised for another attack, so I have to hold the fort here! I'll send a spatial avatar to go with you but I can't guarantee that it'll be able to successfully rescue your disciple!
Upon hearing that Wizard Setoh finally agreed to mobilize a spatial avatar, the Blackfire Lord was ecstatically happy. After all, he was quite familiar with Arcane Wizard Setoh. Arcane Wizards had many avatars as their understanding of the elements and the Maxims have achieved the optimum, and could be created at will.
Therefore, the avatars were constructed with every type of element as their foundation. Then, with tremendous effort, they were consolidated into avatars that were comparable to the most skillful Lord!
In fact, as it was Arcane Wizard's avatar, it would also comprise some of the Arcane Wizard's techniques and abilities, which were endless. Being able to dispatch an avatar was considered the best possible outcome.
"Wizard Setoh, please don't worry. If we fail to rescue him, then it shall be Merlin's fate!"
The Blackfire Lord was acutely aware that it was impossible to kill the Slothful Beast. Back then, the three Great Arcane Wizards had joined forces but were unable to catch the Slothful Beast, not to mention kill it.
All they could do was to allow Wizard Setoh's avatar to see if he could find any breakthrough points to rescue Merlin.
"Alright, the happenings in the Seely Dimension are truly complicated, and the Rock Tribe is poised for another attack. My real body cannot leave this place but if there's a glimmer of hope to rescue your disciple, I can transfer some of my real powers through the avatar!"
The "commitment" shown by Wizard Setoh was simply because the Blackfire Lord was his one and only junior disciple. After their teacher had disappeared, he had activated the power of the Arcane Wizards, but still could not find their teacher. Therefore, Wizard Setoh would give his best for his one and only junior disciple.
The Blackfire Lord's lips quivered like there were some words he was wanted to say.
After a long pause, the Blackfire Lord seemed to make up his mind. In a deep voice, he said, "Thank you, senior disciple! 1 "
"Ever since teacher disappeared, this is the first time you're calling me brother. It appears that this disciple truly occupies a special place in your heart… Now, I'm curious to see this disciple whom you're willing to sacrifice so much for."
"Swoosh."
This dazzling ball of light wrapped around the Blackfire Lord, and then, in the blink of an eye, vanished without a trace…
…
Days turned into months, and months turned into years. By this time, Merlin had been inside the Slothful Beast world for over thirty years. In these thirty years, the Giant Mountain had completely flourished into a place controlled by the Spell Casters.
Spellcast City was now located in the Giant Mountain. Right now, there was no longer any protection from the Runic Magic Circle. Any Spell Caster could enter and exit freely. It was the most developed place among the Spell Caster civilization.
In the past thirty over years, due to Merlin's presence, coupled with the migration of the giants as well as the spreading of news, the Spell Caster civilization had once again become the most powerful civilization in the Slothful Beast world. Generally, none of the tribes dared to attack them any longer.
Of course, in reality, the Spell Caster civilization was only strong on the outside, and hollow on the inside. It was entirely dependent on Merlin. Even after some thirty years, they have not been able to produce a single Mind Power Master who could rival a Great Wizard.
However, the number of Ninth-level Mind Power Masters had increased slightly. With more time, perhaps it would have been possible to produce a Mind Power Master who could rival a Great Wizard.
Nevertheless, just because the other tribes did not initiate any attacks, it did not mean that Merlin was twiddling his thumbs. The black cat Didimoss would wake up once every few years, and the first thing he would do was swallow. 2
Therefore, the black cat Didimoss would stir up upheaval in the Slothful Beast world every couple of years. The entire Slothful Beast world was like a paradise for the black cat Didimoss because he could swallow as much as he liked.
At the same time, Didimoss' abilities were improving rapidly. Finally, a few years ago, the black cat Didimoss' power leveled-up to be equivalent to a Legend with two Maxims!
Such speedy progress surprised even Merlin. Once again, he witnessed the unlimited potential brought about by reversing the natural order. In any case, while the black cat Didimoss was improving, Merlin was not left completely empty-handed either.
In the Slothful Beast world, Merlin made use of the elemental crystal stones in his collection to acquire casting tools on a large scale. The prices were extremely low, so just a few hundred elemental crystal stones were enough to acquire a good casting tool.
Previously, Merlin merely wanted to give it a try, and did not hold any hopes whatsoever. He disseminated a message among the Spell Caster civilization, saying that he would like to acquire the components of the legendary God-Binding Disc belonging to Wizard Bell of the Molta Empire.
The Spell Casters who entered the Slothful Beast world were very close to the era of the Molta Empire, so they were not unfamiliar with the God-Binding Disc.
Nevertheless, even Merlin could not have anticipated that a blessing would appear so unexpectedly. A Spell Caster brought with him two components of the God-Binding Disc.
Judging from the vibration emitted by the seven components of the God-Binding Disc in Merlin's collection, they were the final two components of the genuine God-Binding Disc!
In the end, Merlin only spent two hundred elemental crystal stones to acquire the final two components of the God-Binding Disc. Subsequently, an ecstatic Merlin restored the God-Binding Disc. This was a powerful casting tool which used to be able to suppress the gods!
However, it seemed that Merlin's luck had run out. He tried using the complete God-Binding Disc to fight some of the foreign tribes who were comparable to the most skillful Great Wizard but found that it was ineffective, and could not suppress them.
It was supposed to be a casting tool that could suppress the gods yet it failed to suppress even the most skillful Great Wizard. This caused Merlin to wonder if a large portion of the God-Binding Disc had been destroyed over a long time, and no longer had its suppressing abilities.
However, after careful studying, Merlin was faintly able to draw an inference. The God-Binding Disc was specifically transfigured by Wizard Bell to fight the gods, so perhaps its suppression power was only effective on the gods.
This was purely Merlin's conjecture. If he wanted to verify his inference, he would have to test it on a real god. Unfortunately, there was no real god in the Slothful Beast world.
Besides the God-Binding Disc, Merlin's spell fusion had also achieved a breakthrough. His Fire-type, Thunder-type, Wind-type and Ice-type spells had finally achieved perfect fusion.
The fusion of four-elemental spells boosted his powers tremendously. Originally, he was only infinitely close to a Great Wizard, but now, he had grown to become comparable to a Great Wizard.
This was Merlin's most powerful ability besides Darkness Eye! With this successful four-elemental spell fusion, Merlin had also laid down a solid foundation for his Spell Model fusion when he became a Ninth-level Spell Caster in the future.
As for the remaining Earth-type and Darkness-type spell fusion, it would have to depend on his luck, and plenty of practice. It was not something that could be achieved overnight.
Merlin only put some of his energy into spell fusion. Once he managed to achieve Ice-type spell fusion, Merlin could no longer spare any energy. He devoted his entire attention to perfecting the Mind Power system.
In particular, Merlin was now in the first step of Hallucinating spells, which required more refining. Thus, in this period, he had spent almost all his time underneath the Illusion Monument, accumulating understanding about the essence of Hallucinating spells.
Hallucinating spells were also divided into a few steps. Currently, Merlin was only at the most basic first step. His Mind Power also did not improve by much. If he could gain a more advanced understanding of Hallucinating spells, perhaps it would help improve his Mind Power.
However, understanding Hallucinating spells also required large amounts of energy. It was not a result that would manifest overnight.
Merlin had integrated the previous method of Darkness-type spell illusion with the Mind Power Hallucinating spell, and also combined the illusion from the Blackfire Lord. Gradually, Merlin's understanding of Hallucinating spells began to deepen.
In the past, Merlin could only entrap Spell Casters like Wizard Luce who did not have strong Mind Power. Trying to entrap a Mind Power Master who had consolidated a Mind Heart was almost impossible.
Right now, however, with the steady improvement in Merlin's Hallucinating spells and his enormous Mind Power which far exceeded the Mind Hearts of the average Mind Power Masters, his Hallucinating spells began to improve tremendously.
Even a Ninth-level Mind Power Master who had consolidated a Mind Heart, if he was not careful, might fall prey to Merlin's illusion. Nevertheless, this was still far from what Merlin had envisioned to achieve.
Merlin's target was the second step of Hallucinating spells, which could entrap Great Wizards! Back then, the Blackfire Lord's Hallucinating spells were at this level. He was able to entrap some of the powerful Mind Power Great Wizards.
However, despite staying underneath the Illusion Monument for such a long time, there was no way for him to proceed further. There were also other Seventh- and Eighth-level Mind Power Masters under the Illusion Monument who were frowning hard, and could not progress.
Understanding Hallucinating spells was simply too difficult and challenging. Even equipped with theory, and the fact that Titus had undergone this path, it was difficult for anyone to follow in his footsteps.
"What more is needed?"
Merlin was frowning tautly. This time, he had set his gaze on the huge Illusion Monument. It was unknown what material was this Illusion Monument was made of. Even Merlin could not tell.
Moreover, there seemed to be a strange force field around the Illusion Monument. Anyone who entered this place would be affected by it, which was quite extraordinary.
Merlin extended his Mind Power to the Illusion Monument but could not find anything out of the ordinary. Did Titus leave behind this Illusion Monument merely for such a simple purpose, just to let people learn some theories about his Mind Power system?
Somehow, Merlin felt that there was more than meets the eye with this Illusion Monument. However, he was unable to decipher its secret.
Slowly, Merlin shut his eyes, and extended his Mind Power, shrouding everyone who was inside the Illusion Monument. Naturally, he began to wield his Hallucinating spells.
Underneath the Illusion Monument, there was a strange force field. It required large amounts of Mind Power in order to wield Hallucinating spells in this force field. This was also the first time Merlin was wielding Hallucinating spells within the vicinity of the Illusion Monument.
Moreover, the Mind Power Masters who were learning underneath the Illusion Monument were all somewhat accomplished in Hallucinating spells, so they would not be entrapped by ordinary Hallucinating spells. This time, Merlin had put in maximum effort, and a strange, peculiar Mind Power fluctuation began to ooze into the vicinity of the Illusion Monument.
Merlin saw that almost everyone had been entrapped in some form of illusion. A smile appeared on his face. Although he had yet to achieve the second stage of Hallucinating spells, he was able to entrap some Spell Casters who had already consolidated a Mind Heart, including some Ninth-level Spell Casters.
"All trapped in an illusion… Perhaps they are unable to tell where, whether it was underneath the Illusion Monument or somewhere else, that they fell into an illusion? They cannot differentiate reality and illusion…"
Merlin mumbled under his breath. Seeing these Spell Casters entrapped in an illusion, he violently raised his head to stare at the humongous Illusion Monument.
Earlier, when he had used the Hallucinating spells to entrap these Mind Power Masters, he suddenly realized that the Illusion Monument also became unreal. It was as if the Illusion Monument did not exist at all!
"Illusion? Reality?"
Looking at the close-up, lifelike Illusion Monument, a storm began to crash down on Merlin's heart…
Chapter 578: Illusory World I
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
The humongous Illusion Monument shrouded inside Merlin's Mind Power, becoming like a dream. This feeling was too familiar to Merlin. Back then, the Blackfire Lord's Hallucinating spell also had such a feeling.
Illusion!
Merlin was dumbfounded when he had realized it. Apparently, he was already in an illusion, and he was not the only one. Everyone who could "see" the Illusion Monument, and thought that it existed, had unknowingly fallen into an illusion.
Such a Hallucinating spell was simply unheard of!
Merlin took a deep breath, and calmed his raging emotions. The Illusion Monument was still there. Merlin might have noticed the clues but he could not see through the illusion.
Thus, he slowly closed his eyes with unprecedented peace of mind… At this moment, his mind inadvertently drifted toward the Kingdom of Blackmoon. He thought of his father, Old Wilson, his wives Avril and Charise, and his children. He also thought of Blackwater City, Wilson Castle, fatty Gutt, Carise, and many more.
Perhaps influenced by the invisible force field around the Illusion Monument, suddenly, a pang of loneliness and solitude began to fill Merlin's heart. In the blink of an eye, he had been in the Void Zone for a few decades. In Spell Caster terms, this was only a very short period. Even the black cat Didimoss would sleep for a few years at a time… A few decades were nothing more than a few nights of deep slumber for the black cat Didimoss.
However, to the Normies, a few decades constituted more than half of their entire lifetime… Even if Old Wilson was still alive, he would be old and frail. His two wives might no longer have their youthful beauty but had grown into ordinary old ladies that even Merlin might not recognize.
As for his son and daughter, they seemed a little fuzzy in Merlin's memory…
In Merlin's heart, there was an inexplicable sense of emptiness and loneliness. A Spell Caster's life was destined to be lonely. They had a long lifespan, so their life goals were not what ordinary people could imagine.
"It appears that there's still no peace in my heart…"
Merlin smiled bitterly, and opened his eyes. He knew that the reason he was remembering these things was because of this non-existent Illusion Monument! It was the strange force field that stirred up the feelings of loneliness and solitude in Merlin's heart. Throughout the Spell Casters' long lives, relatives were mere passers-by who could accompany them only for a few decades.
"Spell Casters aren't born emotionless but with the departure of our relatives, and being slowly replaced by strangers, how can we not feel lonely?"
Merlin muttered softly. Right now, a sense of peace blossomed in his heart, and the feeling of loneliness no longer festered but gradually faded away.
"Illusion Monument… Thank you for making me feel lonely but I'll not be lulled by the loneliness. Instead… I'll enjoy this loneliness!"
Merlin raised his head fiercely. Suddenly, without warning, his Mind Power began to grow rapidly, just like when he was in the Mind Tower. All of Merlin's understanding and Mind Power multiplied wildly.
At Merlin's level, the only way to increase Mind Power quickly was to gain an understanding of it.
Merlin looked up at the Illusion Monument. Before his eyes, the Illusion Monument slowly disappeared. There was naught but a casting tool which contained Mind Power in the middle of the square.
It was this Mind Power that was broadcasted across the entire Spellcast City. Almost everyone was trapped in this Mind Power's Hallucinating spell. Most of all, this was only a single strand of Mind Power.
"Such a terrifying Mind Power, and what an impressive broadcast!"
For the first time, Merlin felt the greatness of Titus, which far surpassed Eldo's introduction. Just by leaving behind a strand of Mind Power, Titus had entrapped people in an illusion for so many years. They truly believed that there was an Illusion Monument left behind by Titus, and so many people even studied underneath the "Illusion Monument", which was both funny and shocking.
Merlin looked around. The Mind Power Masters were still deeply entranced by the illusion of the Illusion Monument, thinking that they were gaining some insights. Across the Illusion Monument was Spellcast City, where there were countless people looking wistfully from afar.
The entire Spellcast City had been enchanted by this Mind Power's Hallucinating spell!
"Titus…"
Merlin whispered the name. Then, he slowly stood up, and came to the Illusion Monument. He reached out his hand and gently touched the Illusion Monument. Although he had come to realize that it was merely a Hallucinating spell, that sense of solidness as well as strange familiarization feeling made it easy to convince anyone that this was a real, magical Illusion Monument.
"A Mind Power broadcast that didn't disappear after so many years… Titus, I want to know your purpose!"
Merlin appeared to be talking to himself but he slowly extended his hand as if he could not see the Illusion Monument. Subsequently, he directly "extended" it into the Illusion Monument, and held it gently.
"Boom!"
Everyone in the entire Spellcast City seemed to endure a huge shock in their hearts. They were momentarily stunned, uncertain where the feeling had come from.
"Whoosh."
The Mind Power Masters underneath the Illusion Monument suddenly jolted awake. They were astonished to discover that the Illusion Monument had disappeared. All that was left was an endless square.
"What happened? How did the Illusion Monument disappear?"
"Earlier, my heart seemed to have endured a massive hit. What's going on?"
Only Merlin alone knew what was going on. At this moment, there was a white pearl-like bead in his hand. Inside, there was a strand of Mind Power. It was this strand of Mind Power that had been broadcasting throughout Spellcast City, causing everyone who entered Spellcast City to be unknowingly trapped within its illusion.
"This bead was left behind by Titus, for what reason? What was the motivation for creating this illusion?"
Currently, the white bead in Merlin's hand was no longer glowing. On the contrary, it looked quite plain.
Merlin frowned. He had noticed that there was a strand of Mind Power inside the bead, so it should have been left behind by Titus. It was quite incomprehensible to think that this bead was able to trap everyone in Spellcast City in an illusion.
"Swoosh."
Merlin mobilized his Mind Power, and encapsulated this bead. As Merlin expected, his Mind Power was swiftly absorbed by the bead.
Merlin found himself inside a foreign world. Amid the azure sky, the sun was scorching like fire. Merlin looked up, and surprisingly spotted three suns. He was dumbfounded. Was he still in Spellcast City?
Then, when Merlin looked downward, there was a large city floating languidly in the air. There were many Mind Power Masters coming in and going out, including some Mind Power Masters who were comparable to Great Wizards.
This city was almost the same as Spellcast City, and its surrounding was wrapped with layers of Runic Magic Circle. The only difference was the missing humongous Illusion Monument.
Despite the large number of people, Merlin did not know any of them.
"What's happening?"
Merlin used his Mind Power to sweep below him, but he could feel any life force. These people were all real, and some of the Mind Power Masters were even glaring daggers at Merlin. His act of using Mind Power to investigate them was considered an extremely provocative behavior.
Fortunately, the Mind Power currently demonstrated by Merlin was very powerful, in addition to the fact that he had just undergone a breakthrough. Hence, these Mind Power Masters did not dare pick a fight with Merlin but simply left in a hurry.
"Swish."
Merlin left Spellcast City, and began flying toward other places. He immediately flew to the Giant Mountain. There, the giants still remained. Some of them had even launched attacks on Merlin, but he did not care, and left at once.
This place was exactly similar to Spellcast City and the Slothful Beast world. There were even life forces, so it did not seem like an illusory world. So which world was the real one?
At this moment, Merlin's heart was burdened with a sense of confusion.
Soon, his confusion cleared up, and his heart became resolute. Looking up at the sky, he intoned, "Titus, come out, I know this is your illusion!"
Merlin could not detect that this was an illusion but he knew that his Mind Power must have been trapped inside the white bead. Merlin was beginning to gain an understanding of Titus' mindboggling and unimaginable Hallucinating spells, so he knew that they cannot be gauged by common sense.
"Finally, someone is able to see through the illusion and obtain the illusion bead…"
A faint voice echoed in all directions. Merlin looked around but did not see any silhouette.
"You don't have to look, I'm everywhere."
Just as the words subsided, more than a dozen young Spell Caster wearing long white Wizard robes materialized out of thin air around Merlin. These Wizards all looked exactly the same, down to the deep glint in their eyes.
"Titus!"
Merlin was immediately able to guess the identity of this white-robed Wizard. Other than Titus who had left the bead behind, there could be no one else.
"Yes, I'm Titus!"
Titus' figures began to overlap, and a dozen people quickly disappeared. All that was left was a single figure, who slowly made his way toward Merlin. He assessed Merlin, and nodded with satisfaction. "Not bad, finally someone achieved the second step of Hallucinating spells, and entered my world!"
"Your world?"
Merlin was shocked. All of this was beyond Merlin's comprehension. This world was almost like a dimension. Was this all created by Titus? Does that mean that he was equivalent to an Ultimate Arcane Wizard?
That was simply impossible!
"Yes, my world! This is the Illusory World that I've created!"
There was a hint of pride on Titus' face. Then, he continued. "You must've collected the inheritance that I've left behind in Spellcast City? The three main realms – Hallucinating spells, Illusory Heart, and Illusory World. The outside world all know that I have only achieved the Illusory Heart, but who knew that I have been trying to create my own Illusory World!"
"Illusory World? You've succeeded?"
There was a look of astonishment in Merlin's eyes. Naturally, he knew of Titus' theory, so he was aware of how formidable one would be upon consolidating the Illusory World.
The Illusory Heart was already comparable to a Legend. The Illusory World was something that no one had been able to achieve. However, according to Titus' deduction, if someone had managed to consolidate the Illusory World, he would never be harmed by a Legend ever again.
Invincible Legend! This was the formidable power of consolidating the Illusory World…
"Succeeded? If I had succeeded, then I wouldn't have left this strand of Mind Power here."
Titus' voice was full of despair and bitterness.
Chapter 579: Illusory World II
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
"Unsuccessful?"
Merlin carefully looked at this "illusory" world. The life force on every living being was so realistic that Merlin could not discern the difference. Every piece of land, tree, and insect here were completely life-like. How could that be termed unsuccessful?
Using Mind Power to create such a complete illusory world was no less difficult than creating a real world. In fact, Merlin could not imagine how Titus had managed to create this world.
Titus' expression was extremely convoluted. He gazed at the land and the sky, then looked at the scary giants at the Giant Mountain as well as the Mind Power Masters going in and out of Spellcast City.
Here, deaths occurred, and new lives were being born every day. It was an incomparably real world.
"Back then, in order to perfect the theory, I continued to pursue the Mind Power system. I thought that once I was able to create my own Illusory World, my theory would be successful because that's the last of the three main realms of Hallucinating spells!
"You won't be able to imagine that when this Illusory World was created, it was modeled after the time when I was still alive. I basically moved the entire Slothful Beast world into this place. At that time, Spellcast City was still situated at the Vortex Hole, but thereafter, the giants conquered the Vortex Hole, and drove away the Spell Caster civilization…
"The Illusory World that I've created was changing almost every day. I thought that it was a perfect world since it could operate on its own, like a real world. After thousands or ten thousand years, I don't know the extent to which this world would develop…
"However, thereafter, I gradually realized that my Mind Power had not improved at all. It didn't undergo any transformation. I realized that this world was imperfect. Otherwise, I would have possessed an Illusory World, and my Mind Power would have undergone a substantive transformation! I madly tore down this world, and used all sorts of methods to perfect it, but until the day I died, I could not do it.
"Sometimes, I get confused and even doubt whether my theory is flawed? In this world, can the Mind Power system be perfected? Perhaps, reversing the natural order isn't something humans can achieve…"
After listening to Titus' story, and seeing his discouraged, sorrowful expression, Merlin's heart was deeply touched. Among all the Wizards he had met, Titus was someone who had traveled the furthest on the Mind Power path. His accomplishments had far exceeded other Mind Power Masters, not just by a single step but by several steps.
Among the three main realms of Hallucinating spells, Titus had reached the critical point of the third realm, Illusory World. He was a hair's breadth away from successfully creating the Illusory World. However, he failed in the end.
Such a complete world that could evolve and develop on its own was completely indistinguishable from a real world. Every living being in this world was vividly alive. Each had their own story and ideas. How was it different from the real world?
However, still, Titus had failed. This was not a complete world!
"Since you're dead, what's this Mind Power about? Moreover, what about this illusion bead?"
Merlin knew that Titus had died in the end. After all, he was in the Slothful Beast world. Without a substantive transformation of Mind Power, he could not sustain his physical body. In the absence of elemental crystal stones, Titus had died.
Nevertheless, he left behind this illusion bead, and even used a single strand of Mind Power to broadcast across Spellcast City.
Titus stretched out his finger. In an instant, their environment changed drastically. A long table appeared in a quiet house, and the two of them sat facing one another.
In this Illusory World, Titus was almost omnipotent. Even feats that defied logic were considered a child's play to him.
"Sit down. Let's talk leisurely, and I'll tell you everything!"
Titus smiled and continued. "I'm indeed dead but I'm not willing to die just like that. I'm peeved that the theory I created couldn't be fulfilled. Even if I die, I want to witness with my own eyes that my theory being fulfilled one day! Therefore, I transfigured the illusion bead, and put the imperfect Illusory World in it. I also integrated my Mind Power into the Illusory World. As long as the Illusory World doesn't disappear, in theory, I will not die!"
Merlin understood Titus' meaning. The current Titus was nothing more than a strand of Mind Power or a Mind Power that carried all of Titus' memories. It could not be cultivated, so it would disappear completely once it left the illusion bead.
"Won't die? Then if I'm to destroy the illusion bead, what would happen to you?"
Merlin suddenly raised his head, looking at Titus with a bemused expression.
Titus' expression remained unchanged. He articulated clearly, "If the illusion bead was destroyed, the entire Illusory World would collapse. Then, my Mind Power would vanish as well."
Merlin smiled. He had guessed correctly. There was no such thing as would not die. For example, even though Honored Legends could attach themselves to a Maxim, they would still die if a powerful force destroyed the Maxim. In fact, even the Ultimate Arcane Wizards could die if they encountered a more powerful force. No one could live forever.
This illusion bead was very fragile. Merlin could easily crush it, and the entire Illusory World would collapse.
"Tell me, what's the purpose of you leaving behind the illusion bead?"
Merlin gently picked up the tea on the table. It tasted slightly bitter but smelled wonderful. Despite knowing that it was an illusion, Merlin could not differentiate between reality and illusion in this Illusory World.
"Purpose? Of course, there's a purpose! I left behind the illusion bead because I was waiting for someone to step into the second step of Hallucinating spells. Sadly, after so many years, only precious few managed to enter the first step of Hallucinating spells, what more the second step? You're the only Mind Power Master who had finally entered the second step of Hallucinating spells. Although you're still far from the third step, I can only choose you."
Titus sighed softly, and looked at Merlin with a complicated expression.
"Huh? Choose me? Did you deliberately let me see through the Illusion Monument?"
Merlin's heart ticked as he deciphered the implications of Titus' words.
"Haha, of course, it was deliberate. According to my original intention, only someone who has entered the second stage of Illusory Heart would be qualified to obtain the illusion bead. That would be my most ideal candidate… However, as you can see, Spellcast City is in the doldrums. If I have to wait for someone to achieve the Illusory Heart stage, I might have to wait forever. Therefore, I don't want to wait endlessly anymore. Once you've reached the second step of Hallucinating spells, I deliberately allowed you to discover the secret that the Illusion Monument is a Hallucinating spell, and subsequently, let you obtain the illusion bead."
Merlin did not feel that there was anything wrong with the explanation, which corresponded to his own speculations. He knew very well that he was not a Mind Power genius. At best, he was slightly more talented and had better luck, hence he was able to walk in front of many Mind Power Masters.
Compared to Titus, however, the difference was too pronounced.
"My purpose is very simple – to pass the illusion bead to you with the hope that one day, after you've achieved the realm of Illusory Heart, you'll work hard to create the Illusory World, and perfect my theory! This is so that my Illusory World can be completed. I'm dissatisfied as I don't believe that my theory is flawed. This theory is absolutely right! If you're willing to promise me this, then you can refine this bead. Hehe, don't look down on this illusion bead. Once you've refined it, you'll be able to control the Illusory World in it. Although it's imperfect, it's still possible to entrap an ordinary Legend in the illusion… You can regard it as a casting tool that can rival a Great Legend!"
Merlin's heart skipped. Control this Illusory World? If he could really control it, then Merlin did not doubt Titus' words that it could entrap a Great Legend in its illusion.
He had experienced this illusion personally. Even the life forces appeared to be real, so it was no longer comparable to ordinary illusions. This was far more powerful than the Blackfire Lord's illusion in the past.
Anyone would be tempted to own a casting tool that could trap a Legend, and Merlin was no exception!
However, Merlin frowned. He still had some doubts.
"If I can control the Illusory World, what benefit is it to you? Don't tell me it's just to witness your system being perfected. I don't believe such nonsense."
Merlin was still somewhat wary of Titus. After all, his bizarreness surpassed even the Blackfire Lord. Not only did he create a Mind Power system that no one had ever created before, but it reached such an incredibly advanced level of mind-blowing proportions.
"Of course, it won't be enough for me just to be able to witness someone else perfect my system! Since you've inherited my Mind Power system, you should know what comes after the three main realms, after the Illusory World?"
"From illusion to reality, reverse the natural order!"
Merlin answered coldly.
"That's right, from illusion to reality, reverse the natural order! This is the last step of the Mind Power system. Before reaching this final step, you can never claim to perfect the Mind Power system. Based on my conceptualization, if you've managed to convert illusion into reality, and reverse the natural order, then what do you think will happen to my Illusory World? It would become real. Everything would be converted from illusion into reality. In other words, if one day you've managed to turn illusion into reality, I would be resurrected!"
"Illusion into reality? Resurrection?"
Stormy waves began to crash down on Merlin's heart. He felt that Titus was overly crazy. Even if he had completely inherited Titus' Mind Power system, he had never thought that turning illusion into reality would bring about such an inconceivable, unbelievable effect.
This was like creating something out of nothing, and was a million times harder than creating a completely real dimension. This was akin to a fool's daydream!
"Don't look at me like that. The world of Mind Power must involve bold imagination. You must dare to imagine, and dare to make it happen. Otherwise, I wouldn't have been able to create such a great Mind Power system! Although I know that it would be very difficult, some hope is better than none. Moreover, once you've refined the illusion bead, you'll find out whether what I said is true. You can easily cause this Mind Power of mine to disappear…"
After a long moment, Merlin raised his head. The Mind Power transformed into a gentle breeze, and disappeared from the Illusory World. All that was left was a soft murmur, "I'll prove it…"
"Swoosh."
Chapter 580: Controlling the Illusion Bead
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
"Merlin, what happened to you?"
Beside Merlin's ear, Wizard Luce's voice rang. The latter was looking at Merlin with a concerned expression.
"Oh, nothing, what just happened?"
Merlin suddenly "woke up", and realized that a crowd had gathered.
"The Illusion Monument had disappeared. I don't know what happened either."
Wizard Luce shrugged, indicating that he did not know the details. He had never been overly concerned with the Illusion Monument, so its sudden disappearance did not affect him. However, the rest of the Wizards in Spellcast City would not think the same way.
Merlin scanned his gaze across the crowd, and subtly shook his head. He grasped the illusion bead tightly in his hand, and returned to the Vortex Hole with Luce. Here, there was a castle. It was Merlin and Luce's residence, so no one from Spellcast City would disturb them.
Upon returning to the castle, Merlin stretched out his palm, and revealed the white illusion bead resting in it. It was all because of this illusion bead that the entire Spellcast City had been trapped in an illusion for so many years.
Merlin carefully studied the white illusion bead and did not discover any peculiarity. At most, it was a casting tool transfigured from ordinary materials.
However, Merlin needed to make some preparations. He woke up the black cat Didimoss. Although Didimoss was sleeping, if there was an emergency, he could still be woken up.
"Didimoss, in a while, I'm going to take control of this white bead. If you sense something wrong, don't hesitate and destroy the bead immediately."
The black cat Didimoss nodded and said, "Don't worry, it's just an ordinary casting tool. Why are you so nervous?"
Merlin smiled, and did not say anything. He consolidated his mind imprint, and fiercely engraved it into the illusion bead.
"Hum hum hum."
Taking control of a casting tool was very easy. All it required was engraving one's mind imprint. Right now, Merlin was engraving his mind imprint into the illusion bead.
Even though Merlin was on his highest guard, taking control of the illusion bead was quite easy. His mind imprint was engraved into the illusion bead without a hitch. Moreover, Merlin had finally understood why Titus said that as long as Merlin controlled the illusion bead, everything would become clear to him.
The moment Merlin took control of the illusion bead, he could distinctly feel everything inside the illusion bead, including Titus' Mind Power strand. If Merlin had so desired, he could immediately destroy Titus' Mind Power.
This was because the entire Illusory World was contained in the illusion bead. After all, Titus did not manage to perfect the Illusory World. Otherwise, the Illusory World would be situated in Titus' Awareness, and not in this illusion bead.
Nevertheless, Merlin did not destroy Titus' Mind Power. Up to this point, everything that Titus had told him was the truth. Titus did not hide anything, so allowing his Mind Power strand to remain in the Illusory World would not pose any threat to Merlin.
Therefore, allowing Titus' Mind Power to stay would be of great help to Merlin in perfecting the Mind Power system in the future.
"Phew…"
Merlin opened his eyes. The black cat Didimoss jumped onto his shoulder happily.
"Merlin, you've controlled this casting tool, right?"
"Yes, it's controlled now. However, Didimoss, you can try out its power!"
Merlin's lips curved into a cryptic smile. Then, he manipulated the illusion bead and the Illusory World to quickly shroud around the black cat Didimoss.
"Boom."
Merlin only managed to mobilize the Illusory World for a split second, but he felt like his entire body had fallen into a deep swamp, and felt inexplicably exhausted.
"Mind Power, why did it consume so much Mind Power?"
Merlin was dumbfounded. He had only tried to mobilize the Illusory World for a short moment but discovered that it was incomparably difficult. Even for a split second, his Mind Power had almost been entirely diminished.
This split second did not affect the black cat Didimoss in any form. Instead, he was peering at Merlin quite curiously. Seeing that Merlin was unresponsive, Didimoss could not be bothered to rack its brains, and resumed sleeping on Merlin's shoulder.
"Whoosh."
Merlin's Mind Power projection swiftly entered the Illusory World.
"Titus!"
Merlin was biting back anger as he hollered.
"Oh? Wizard Merlin, you've taken control of the illusion bead, so you must know that I've been telling the truth, right?"
Titus smiled jovially as he appeared in the sky.
Merlin's face, on the other hand, was extremely dark. Coldly, he asked, "Titus, what's happening? I only mobilized the Illusory World for a split second but my Mind Power is completely exhausted."
Merlin remembered that Titus had mentioned once he had controlled the Illusory World in the illusion bead, he might even be able to trap Great Legends in the illusion.
Merlin had also personally experienced the Illusory World, so he basically agreed with Titus' comment. Right now, however, he realized that he was completely unable to mobilize the Illusory World.
Titus shook his head helplessly, and said in an even tone, "Wizard Merlin, you should know that the Illusory World was consolidated by me. You haven't been fully integrated into the Illusory World, so naturally, you're unable to easily mobilize the Illusory World. You can only use the illusory bead to forcefully mobilize the Illusory World, and this would require an immense amount of Mind Power as support!"
"You mean that I can't mobilize the Illusory World?"
Merlin's expression darkened even further. He was beginning to feel "cheated" by Titus.
"No, no, no, you can still mobilize the Illusory World but your Mind Power has to be even more powerful. Your Mind Power must grow by many folds, at least to the point of consolidating a Ninth-level Mind Heart. Then, you may be somewhat able to mobilize the Illusory World though still unable to do as you please. Unless and until you can fully control the Illusory World and integrate it with your Mind Power. This will, however, require your Hallucinating spells to achieve the stage of the Illusory Heart."
"If I integrate it with my Mind Power upon achieving the Illusory Heart, then I won't have a choice whether or not to perfect the Illusory World. I'll be forced to help you perfect this Illusory World?"
Merlin immediately realized the implications.
"Of course. Wizard Merlin, once the Illusory World is integrated into your Mind Power, this world would be yours. It would no longer be related to me. I'll be just a strand of Mind Power in it. Besides, this would help you build a strong foundation in consolidating the Illusory World because you won't have to spend endless time and effort to construct a world from scratch. All you need to do is add your understanding into this Illusory World, and gradually perfect it."
Merlin knew that this was Titus' true intention. He wanted to bind Merlin to the Illusory World, so that if Merlin was able to perfect the Illusory World one day and turn illusion into reality, reversing the natural order, Titus would be resurrected!
"Hmph!"
Merlin did not speak. He gave a cold snort, and his Mind Power exited the Illusory World. Merlin knew that he must have been silently "played" by Titus. Nevertheless, even knowing this cunning manipulation, Merlin could not give up on the Illusory World.
He kept the Illusory World. Merlin's heart was thumping strongly. After careful organization, he discovered that he had derived innumerable benefit in the Slothful Beast world. Not only did he manage to complete the God-Binding Disc but he had also fused four-elemental spells.
Additionally, he also received a complete theory of the Mind Power system, which gave him a clear direction forward without wandering aimlessly. Moreover, he had reached the second stage of Hallucinating spells, and was now able to entrap some of the ordinary Great Wizards. Subsequently, he would have to gain an understanding of the third stage of Hallucinating spells.
However, the biggest trove was still the Illusory World. This was consolidated from Titus' life work. Regardless of now or in the future, the Illusory World would be invaluable to Merlin's work in the Mind Power system. Although he could not use it right now, once he had strengthened his Mind Power, he would be able to forcefully mobilize limited powers of the Illusory World.
"Unfortunately, there's still no way to open up the Vortex Hole. I don't know when I can leave Vortex Hole or perhaps I won't be able to leave forever!"
Merlin stared at the large Vortex Hole in the sky with a look of helplessness. Whether it was Didimoss or Titus from the Illusory World, none of them could help Merlin leave the Vortex Hole.
Merlin would only stay below the Vortex Hole. While he was exchanging knowledge of Hallucinating spells with Titus in the Illusory World, he was quietly observing the changes in the Vortex Hole, hoping to find a way out of the Slothful Beast world…
…
In the icy Void Zone, a dazzling ball of light appeared like it was "skipping". Every skip was a leap across vast distances. In the Void Zone without any space, this was quite unbelievable.
"I can sense it. The Slothful Beast isn't far in front!"
The ball of light consisted of three Wizards or more accurately, two avatars and the real Blackfire Lord. The three of them were the Ultimate Arcane Wizard Setoh's spatial avatar, the Blackfire Lord, and the maxim avatar consolidated by Legend Zado.
Relying on Legend Zado's maxim avatar, the three of them traveled an endless journey, and finally approached the Slothful Beast.
"Zado, has there been any change in the Slothful Beast?"
The Blackfire Lord asked quietly.
Legend Zado's maxim avatar shook his head and said, "The Slothful Beast hasn't changed. It has been moving aimlessly. Since the last time, it swallowed again once, this time consuming three empty dimensions…"
Legend Zado's maxim avatar initially had a calm expression but suddenly, his expression changed drastically. In a deep voice, he said, "This is bad, the Slothful Beast has stopped. It looks like it'll go to sleep again!"
"Stopped?"
The Blackfire Lord and Arcane Wizard Setoh's faces paled slightly. They of course knew what it meant for the Slothful Beast to stop. It meant that the Slothful Beast might probably fall asleep.
If the Slothful Beast fell asleep, it would be even more difficult to save Merlin!
"Come, let's speed up. We mustn't allow the Slothful Beast to fall asleep!"
Arcane Wizard Setoh's spatial avatar shrouded Zado's maxim avatar, and the Blackfire Lord with the dazzling bright light once again and started "skipping" gently. The next moment, they had traversed across a vast distance.
"We've arrived!"
The white ball of light had stopped. In the pitch-black void before them, there was an unimaginably huge beast floating calmly. Its behemoth body fluttered slightly, seeming to adjust its sleeping position.
Soon, this Slothful Beast would fall into a deep slumber, and no one would be able to wake it up.
Chapter 581: Tear Apart, Backdoor!
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
"Blackfire Lord, Wizard Setoh!"
Behind the Slothful Beast, a tiny Wizard as insignificant as a speck of dust quickly came before the Blackfire Lord and Wizard Setoh.
Although Legend Zado already knew Wizard Setoh's identity of via his maxim avatar, he was still a little excited to see an Ultimate Arcane Wizard in person.
Previously, when the Blackfire Lord had mentioned that he was going to invite an Arcane Wizard, in his heart, Legend Zado did not really believe him. Legend Zado had been in Arcane City for such a long time but had never seen an Arcane Wizard. In fact, even some of the Honored Legends had never met the three Great Arcane Wizards.
Right now, however, Arcane Wizard Setoh had appeared before him. Despite Legend Zado's excitement, he did not forget the matter at hand. He calmed his emotions, and said solemnly, "Blackfire Lord, Wizard Setoh, the situation isn't ideal. The Slothful Beast has fallen asleep too sudden. It had already chosen a place, and I'm afraid it's falling into a deep slumber as we speak."
"I'll go and take a look."
Wizard Setoh only glanced at Legend Zado, and flew directly in front of the Slothful Beast. Before the huge Slothful Beast, anyone would seem incomparably tiny.
The Blackfire Lord and Zado exchanged a look and flew over as well. They saw Wizard Setoh staring at the Slothful Beast's mouth with an increasingly grave expression.
"This is troublesome. The Slothful Beast is already asleep and will not swallow anything in a while. Before this, I was planning to use some techniques to pass some messages into its body when it opened its mouth to swallow, but now, this plan will not work."
Wizard Setoh was feeling troubled. Using brute force to pry open the Slothful Beast' mouth was completely impossible. The fact that he was a mere spatial avatar was irrelevant. Even if his real body was present together with the two other Arcane Wizards, it would still be impossible.
Looking at this huge Slothful Beast, even Wizard Setoh appeared quite powerless. The Slothful Beast was considered one of the greatest existences in the Void Zone, the darling of the natural order. Even Arcane Wizards were powerless against it.
Fortunately, the number of these Slothful Beast was extremely few, probably only up to a hundred or so creatures. A hundred Slothful Beasts might sound disheartening but they were scattered all across the Void Zone, so it was considered very rare. Even after hundreds and thousands of years, none of the Slothful Beast would meet one another.
"Wizard Setoh, is there no other way?"
The Blackfire Lord asked a little impatiently. More than thirty years had passed, who knew what Merlin would become in the belly of the Slothful Beast.
"Be patient. There are other ways. We just need to try it out."
Wizard Setoh flew one circle around the huge beast. Even with his speed, it took him a few months to complete. That was how immensely huge the Slothful Beast was.
"The Slothful Beast has a few weaker points that can potentially lead into its body. The first is the mouth. However, since it's asleep, the mouth is shut and cannot be entered. Next would be the ear. However, the Slothful Beast's ear seems to contain a layer of membrane. I'm not sure if I'm able to force my way through that…. Lastly, there's one remaining option, which also poses the greatest chance!"
The Blackfire Lord and Legend Zado's eyes both lit up. They were completely helpless against this Slothful Beast. Besides, their understanding would not be able to rival Wizard Setoh, considering that the three Great Arcane Wizards had attempted to "capture" a Slothful Beast before. Even though the attempt was a failure, surely, the three Great Arcane Wizards had studied the Slothful Beast carefully and knew it very well.
"Wizard Setoh, what's the Slothful Beast's last weak point?"
The Blackfire Lord asked softly.
Wizard Setoh's expression turned slightly uncomfortable. He led the Blackfire Lord and Legend Zado half a circle to the back of the Slothful Beast and pointed toward an enormous hole.
"Here!"
"Erm… Wizard Setoh, are you really going to put your head in there?"
Upon seeing the "enormous hole", the Blackfire Lord and Legend Zado each exchanged looks of disbelief. Wizard Setoh's face, on the other hand, was slightly disgruntled. After all, he was a respectable Ultimate Arcane Wizard but now had to probe the Slothful Beast's backdoor, and attempt to tear this hole open to form a communication channel with the inside world.
"Hmph. Blackfire, if it's not because of your insistence to rescue your disciple, do you think I would do this? Anyway, I'm going to try using the Spatial Maxim, Dissecting Slit, to slit open the protection of the Slothful Beast, and establish a communication channel! Oh yes, it's best if someone can enter. However, not a real person or else you might not be able to exit."
Wizard Setoh and the Blackfire Lord naturally turned to look at Legend Zado's maxim avatar.
Legend Zado could only offer weakly. "Wizard Setoh, please use my maxim avatar to try it out."
"Alright. Get ready, I'm starting!"
Wizard Setoh did not want to delay any longer. After all, using such a method to enter the Slothful Beast's body was truly appalling. If they were seen by any top powers of other civilizations, the entire Spell Caster civilization would probably be subject to ridicule.
"Blackfire, you're on guard duty!"
After making proper arrangements, Wizard Setoh took Legend Zado and flew toward the enormous hole behind the Slothful Beast.
This enormous hole looked like a massive black hole. Inside, there appeared to be a vortex layer. Legend Zado was also a Great Legend, so naturally, he could sense the terrifying strangling power contained in this vortex. Even if he was protected by a Maxim, he might be strangled by it, what more to tear open a passage.
"Zado, I'll do my best to tear open a passage. Then, your maxim avatar must enter immediately and find Merlin as quickly as possible. The number of people coming out must be as few as possible, not more than five! Once time runs out, you might have to remain inside forever. The Slothful Beast has an incredible ability, that is, any injured weak point would automatically be strengthened. Therefore, I cannot guarantee that I can tear it open a second time!"
Legend Zado understood completely. There was only one chance for him to enter. He must bring Merlin out. Otherwise, his maxim avatar would have to remain inside forever.
Taking a deep breath, Legend Zado said to Wizard Setoh in a deep voice, "Wizard Setoh, please be rest assured, I'll find Merlin as fast as possible and bring him out!"
"Okay, then I'll start tearing this vortex open!"
Strands of Spatial Maxim began to appear around Wizard Setoh. These Spatial Maxim strands contained an amazing power that was unique to the Arcane Wizards, becoming even more powerful. As soon as the Maxim appeared, a threatening power ensued. Although Zado knew that it was not directed at him, there was still a feeling of trepidation.
"Cut!"
Wizard Setoh growled softly, and the surrounding Void Zone seemed to vibrate. It was important to keep in mind that there were no time and space in the Void Zone.
"Open up!"
Wizard Setoh roared. His Spatial Maxim evolved into an extremely sharp piercing force, and violently speared toward the vortex inside the enormous hole.
"Skrr."
The huge Slothful Beast shuddered like it felt the intrusion. Amid its deep sleep, the Slothful Beast tremored a little but soon calmed down. Such a small movement was not enough to affect the Slothful Beast.
"Alright, it's torn! Zado, go on in."
Wizard Setoh had viciously torn it apart with his hands, and the vortex inside the enormous hole actually began to split open. The terrifying strangling power had subsided. Wizard Zado's maxim avatar nodded, and swiftly transformed into a light ray, then squeezed through the narrow cracks.
…
In the Illusory World, Merlin was sitting opposite Titus. Every day, he would visit the Illusory World and talk to Titus, as well as seek some knowledge about Hallucinating spells.
Titus was undeniably the foremost pioneer in Hallucinating spells and the Mind Power system. After talking to him for several months, Merlin felt that he had gained a lot of benefits, and derived a more profound understanding of Hallucinating spells. In addition, he had also fortified the second step of Hallucinating spells.
However, in order to reach the third step, Merlin would have to depend on his own understanding. According to Titus, upon reaching the first stage of Hallucinating spells, no one could help Merlin. He could only rely on his own understanding.
After all, Hallucinating spells were not static. Every person's Hallucinating spells would vary based on their own experiences, et cetera. For example, Titus' Hallucinating spells were filled with peace, so people would unconsciously fall trap to his Hallucinating spells.
This was because Titus had stayed in the Slothful Beast world for a long time. Once his Hallucinating spells had matured, his life became very peaceful, so his Hallucinating spells also became more and more soothing.
Merlin, on the other hand, was different. He had traveled from the Kingdom of Blackmoon to the Void Zone and many dimensions. He had experienced a series of violence and bloodshed, so all his Hallucinating spells were filled with magnificence.
"What else do I need to achieve the third step of the first stage Hallucinating spells? What about the Illusory Heart?"
After talking to Titus for a moment, Merlin opened his mouth and asked evenly.
Titus smiled but it was a slightly helpless smile. He replied softly, "Wizard Merlin, you've now reached the second step of Hallucinating spells. You should know by now how difficult Hallucinating spells can be. Only you alone can grasp an understanding! I can only offer you my own experience. If I was to start all over again, even I'm not sure whether I can reach this point smoothly.
"As for the Illusory Heart, forgive my bluntness, Wizard Merlin, but it's too difficult for you to achieve it at this juncture. Although I hope more than anyone for you to achieve an understanding of the Illusory Heart so that you can perfect the Illusory World for me to be resurrected. Honestly, even I cannot tell whether or not you'll successfully achieve the Illusory Heart!"
Merlin stared at Titus. After a long moment, he nodded without any expression. In reality, Merlin was most well-informed about how difficult it was to accomplish the Mind Power system that Titus had created.
Not only the Illusory Heart but even the third step of the first stage Hallucinating spells, Merlin did not know if he could achieve it. For example, for the past few months, through his exchange with Titus in the Illusory World, he had gained a lot of knowledge and benefitted greatly. However, most of it was merely theoretical knowledge, and did not substantially increase his Mind Power.
Up to now, his Mind Power had only undergone a massive improvement when he had achieved an understanding of the second step of Hallucinating spells. At other times, there was not a single trace of improvement, and he did not gain any other understanding of Hallucinating spells.
Merlin knew that this process could not be rushed, so he continued to say, "In that case, Titus, tell me about the Illusory Heart."
Titus nodded and said, "The Illusory Heart is actually very simple…"
"Boom!"
Suddenly, the entire Illusory World seemed to tremor slightly. Merlin's Mind Power connection was instantly broken.
"What happened?"
Titus stared at Merlin's broken Mind Power with surprise. Prior to this, he was able to see the outside situation via the illusion bead, but now that it was controlled by Merlin, unless Merlin was willing, Titus was unable to see anything happening on the outside.
At this moment, outside the Illusory World, Merlin was jolted awake. He opened his eyes, and immediately looked up toward the sky at the previously unchanged Vortex Hole.
Chapter 582: Didimoss Leaves
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
The Vortex Hole trembled as if there was a terrifying power stirring the vortex as well as the entire Slothful Beast word. Below the Vortex Hole, Spellcast City felt the tremors more intensely.
"What's going on?"
Wizard Luce quickly arrived where Merlin was. Even the black cat Didimoss had awakened, and was watching the huge Vortex Hole in the air vigilantly.
Merlin shook his head. He also did not know what was happening. He only felt that there seemed to be a fearsome force stirring the Vortex Hole.
"Tss."
Suddenly, an illusory finger appeared from the Vortex Hole.
"A finger?"
Merlin and Wizard Luce cast a glance at each other, rejoice showing on their faces. Someone was tearing the Vortex Hole from the outside. There had long been rumors in the Slothful Beast world. If there was a powerful force that tore a vortex from the outside, then it would be possible to leave the Slothful Beast world. However, that was just an ancient rumor. After all, even Lords might not be able to tear open the Vortex Hole.
However, now, looking at the finger, Merlin knew that this was an external force tearing open the Vortex Hole.
"Boom."
The huge illusory finger appeared from the Vortex Hole, followed by another, two, three…
Ten fingers, followed by two huge palms, firmly gripped each side of the Vortex Hole, and opened a gigantic hole.
"Whoosh."
A figure that was accompanied by a terrifying pressure quickly flew down from the Vortex Hole.
"Meow, that's Zado's life force. Merlin, Zado came to save you!"
The black cat Didimoss was the first to feel the familiar life force, and said excitedly.
"Teacher Zado?"
Merlin lifted his head, and looked at the figure. He was similar to the Legend Zado he knew in his memories but the life force was a little different.
However, the black cat Didimoss had been by Zado's side for far longer, so it very quickly felt Legend Zado's life force.
"Swoosh."
That figure's speed was extremely swift, and landed beside Merlin. It was indeed Legend Zado.
"Haha, Merlin, it really is you! Quick, come with me. Wizard Setoh had forcefully opened the Slothful Beast's passage. We'll be able to leave the Slothful Beast world through this passage."
Legend Zado also did not expect that he would meet Merlin so soon, and could not help but laughed out loud.
"Wizard Setoh?"
There was a trace of doubt in Merlin's eyes. Opening up the Slothful Beast's passage was not something an ordinary Spell Caster could do.
"It's a long story. The Blackfire Lord spent more than thirty years trying to get Arcane Wizard Setoh to use an avatar. Quick, I'll tell you more after we leave."
Legend Zado looked at the vortex passage in the sky, and urged. He also knew that it was very difficult for Arcane Wizard Setoh to maintain this passage.
"Hmm, Luce, let's go. We can leave the Slothful Beast world!"
Merlin glanced at Spellcast City. He wanted to bring the Wizards of Spellcast City along with him but that was impossible. Thus, he could only instantly transform into a streak of light with Legend Zado, as well as Luce and the black cat Didimoss, and throw themselves into the passage at the mouth of the vortex.
…
The Blackfire Lord looked nervously at Wizard Setoh, who was struggling to support the passage. It seemed that he would not be able to support it any longer.
"Wizard Setoh, how is it? How much longer can you hold on for?"
The Blackfire Lord asked quietly.
Wizard Setoh's expression was solemn. "I never thought that the Slothful Beast would have such powerful self-regulation. The pressure on me has just doubled, and I won't be able to hold on to this passage for much longer. If Zado still doesn't come out, the passage will be sealed, and he'll never be able to leave!"
Even the Blackfire Lord could feel that the sleeping Slothful Beast was slightly swaying. A strange fluctuation was repairing the passage torn by Wizard Setoh.
Under such a situation, even if it was Wizard Setoh, he would not be able to hold on for long.
"Haha, Wizard Setoh, Blackfire Lord, I've lived up to your expectations and brought Merlin back!"
A burst of loud laughter sounded from the passage in the vortex, and at the same time, several figures swiftly flew out from the passage.
"Boom."
The colossal Slothful Beast's body shook again, and Wizard Setoh was no longer able to hold on. As soon as he let go, the passage on the Slothful Beast's Vortex Hole had disappeared immediately, apparently repaired by the Slothful Beast.
Moreover, Wizard Setoh was no longer needed to forcefully open the Vortex Hole again.
"Teacher!"
Merlin greeted the Blackfire Lord respectfully. If not for the Blackfire Lord's perseverance, Luce and he might have been trapped in the Slothful Beast world forever.
"Oh? Merlin, we seemed to have come out from the Slothful Beast's backdoor."
The black cat Didimoss said in an exaggerated tone which even contained a trace of irritation. Merlin also turned around to look and found that the Vortex Hole was indeed the Slothful Beast's backdoor.
Thinking about this, Merlin's expression also became unnatural.
"Blackfire, this is your disciple, Merlin?"
Suddenly, Wizard Setoh's sharp gaze fell on Merlin, giving Merlin a feeling that he had been completely exposed. Wizard Setoh's eyes were endlessly deep.
Merlin's body shivered, and he thought about Legend Zado's explanation. This unfamiliar Spell Caster was no doubt Arcane Wizard Setoh's avatar that the Blackfire Lord had spent more than thirty years trying to call.
Even if he was only an avatar, he was worthy of the name. This was the one of the Three Great Arcane Wizards of Spell Caster civilization, Arcane Wizard Setoh!
Merlin had never met an Arcane Wizard before but he could sense an unfathomable life force on Wizard Setoh's body. It was completely different from the feeling that Merlin got from the Blackfire Lord.
The Blackfire Lord was strong, and even Merlin could feel a powerful sense of oppression. However, in the end, Merlin knew that the Blackfire Lord's strength was tangible and visible.
However, Merlin could not fathom Wizard Setoh at all. It was as if he was illusory, making Merlin unable to feel that he was real.
"Merlin, this is Arcane Wizard Setoh. This time, it was all Wizard Setoh's hard work that rescued you safely from the Slothful Beast's body.
The Blackfire Lord pointed at Wizard Setoh, and introduced to Merlin.
Merlin quickly bowed in respect, "Great Arcane Wizard, thank you for your help!"
"You teacher used a precious promise in exchange for my help, so if you have to thank anyone, thank Blackfire instead! Merlin, you have a good teacher. I've never seen Blackfire pay such a hefty price for a disciple. You're indeed quite good, a Six-Elemental Spell Caster. You have a chance of becoming a Great Legend in the future!"
Wizard Setoh narrowed his eyes and glanced over at the black cat Didimoss. When he saw Didimoss, his expression changed greatly.
"Natural order? I can't see the brand of the natural order on your body… You've reversed the natural order?"
Wizard Setoh's voice trembled when he mentioned about "reversing the natural order".
Merlin looked at Legend Zado, and Legend Zado also said awkwardly, "Wizard Setoh, Didimoss only gradually changed into a living entity from a spirit of the Runic Magic Circle by a twist of fate. It was also because of reversing the natural order that it was able to become a being comparable to Great Legends!"
Wizard Setoh grew even more excited after hearing Legend Zado's firm answer, and could not stop laughing. "Haha, sixteen hundred years ago, the Three Great Arcane Wizards set out for the sake of a weak, ordinary life that had reversed the natural order that the Giant Tribe had obtained first. At that time, the life that reversed the natural order was only equivalent to a Fourth-level Spell Caster, weak and pitiful!
"Even so, because of strong interference from other civilizations, we didn't manage to get it in the end, and it was taken by the Titan Giant of the Giant Tribe. It's so regretful! Who would've thought that I'd encounter a living being that had reversed the natural order, and also comparable to Great Legends? Hahaha, it's worth it, it's really worth it! Merlin, Didimoss is very important to us, the Three Great Arcane Wizards. There's no brand of the natural order on its body, so countless powerful others would go crazy over Didimoss. It'll be too dangerous if it stays by your side. If a foreign tribe knows of this, they would compete for it at all costs. I'll take Didimoss away for now. Didimoss will be safe under our protection. In addition, it'll even grow faster!"
Wizard Setoh's expression was completely agitated, and there was even some madness in that excitement.
"Uh… Merlin, I don't want to go!"
The black cat Didimoss looked at Wizard Setoh, and felt fear from the bottom of its heart. It jumped onto Merlin's shoulder but with a light grab from Wizard Setoh, an invisible power had enveloped Didimoss, and instantly imprisoned it.
"Wizard Setoh, the black cat Didimoss has been with me for many years…"
Before Merlin even finished speaking, Wizard Setoh waved his hand and said, "Merlin, you can't even begin to imagine the preciousness of a being who had reversed the natural order. In the vast Void Zone, among billions of dimensions, such an existence can be counted on one hand! Don't worry, we won't harm Didimoss. After all, it's also a friend of ours, the Spell Casters."
At this time, the Blackfire Lord also interrupted. "Merlin, Wizard Setoh won't do anything to Didimoss. Don't worry!"
Merlin still felt a little uncomfortable in his heart. Didimoss had been with him since the Kingdom of Blackmoon to the Void Zone. Furthermore, Merlin felt that with Didimoss by his side, it was like having a Great Legend.
Now that Wizard Setoh wanted to take Didimoss away, Merlin would naturally find it hard to accept.
However, if it really was like what Wizard Setoh had said that Didimoss, a living being who had reversed the natural order was so important, then keeping Didimoss by his side was indeed too dangerous. They were lucky that strong beings from foreign tribes had not discovered them. Otherwise, if they took action, no one would be able to save Merlin and Didimoss.
Of course, the most important reason was that Merlin did not have the power to refuse Wizard Setoh at all.
Thus, Merlin went to Didimoss' side and said gently, "Didimoss, go with Wizard Setoh to Arcane City. It's the safest there! I'll come back for you later. Don't forget, we need to return to the Kingdom of Blackmoon…"
The black cat Didimoss no longer struggled, and nodded slightly. Then, it swished its long tail and jumped on Wizard Setoh's shoulder.
Then, Wizard Setoh quickly and excitedly brought Didimoss back to Arcane City…
Chapter 583: Back to the Pavilion of Rarities
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
After the black cat Didimoss was taken away by Wizard Setoh, Merlin glanced at the Blackfire Lord. Although he did not know what relationship the Blackfire Lord and Wizard Setoh had, it was obvious that the Blackfire Lord must have paid a huge price to invite an Ultimate Arcane Wizard.
"Teacher!"
Merlin was just about to speak when the Blackfire Lord held out a hand to stop him. He said calmly, "You don't have to say anything. You're my disciple as well as my hope! I still wish that you'll be able to perfect the Mind Power system in the future. At that time, my disciple will become a powerful existence who opens up a system, haha…"
The Blackfire Lord said this, and laughed loudly. He did not remain there and flew away directly, only leaving behind one warning. "Merlin, the Void Zone is very dangerous. Not even Great Lords dare to say that they can wander around. You're on your own now! If you encounter something impossible, try to avoid them…"
The voice gradually disappeared, showing that the Blackfire Lord had already left.
Legend Zado patted Merlin's shoulder, and said with a smile, "Merlin, it's not as dangerous as the Blackfire Lord made it out to be. Haha, with me as well as the Blackfire Lord, you can go wherever you want in the Void Zone! However, there's some truth in the Blackfire Lord's words. I have to leave and start preparing to form an Earth Maxim, and become an Honored Legend with an Earth Maxim as the foundation!"
It seemed that Legend Zado was also stimulated. Back when he was cornered by Legend Arnie, it made him feel that even if he was a Great Legend with five Maxims, there was still a gap compared to an Honored Legend.
Legend Zado was undoubtedly a true genius. Legends that could form five Maxims were few and far in between in the entire Spell Caster civilization. They were also regarded as Legends who were most likely to become Great Lords.
Thus, now that Legend Zado had made up his mind, it might be a long time before he appeared again.
"Legend Zado, thank you very much for this time. I even caused you to use up a Maxim to form a maxim avatar."
Merlin also knew that for a Great Legend, forming a maxim avatar required decades or even centuries of recovery. The price was extremely high.
"Haha, what's the big deal about a maxim avatar? I have five Maxims, so just one maxim avatar doesn't affect me. However, this incident has also taught me several lessons. There are indeed some dangers in the Void Zone, so just take this maxim avatar along with you although it can't help much in a battle. The sixth form of your Darkness Eye is no worse than this maxim avatar. Therefore, its real function is to help you to contact me quickly. In the future, if you've encountered any difficulties that can't be solved, I'll know immediately through this maxim avatar."
Merlin knew that this maxim avatar was a precious gift. In the vast Void Zone, having Legend Zado's maxim avatar would indeed make him much safer. In case he encountered any danger, he could inform Legend Zado through this maxim avatar.
"Alright, I'll leave now. I hope the next time we meet, you've become a Great Wizard, haha!"
Legend Zado was very outspoken, completely unlike the Blackfire Lord. Merlin was also quite favorable toward Legend Zado. When he was swallowed into the Slothful Beast's belly, no matter if it was the Blackfire Lord or Legend Zado, they both had paid hefty prices.
"Wizard Merlin, where do we go now?"
Wizard Luce only spoke after the Blackfire Lord and Legend Zado had left.
Merlin turned around and felt some lingering fear after looking at the colossal Slothful Beast, and said, "We should get out of here as soon as possible and go to the Shkedu Dimension."
Thus, the two Wizards sat on the casting tool and flew toward the Shkedu Dimension.
…
"Phew…"
Finally, they had reached the Shkedu Dimension. The dimension had suffered a catastrophe. Although it had been several decades since, it still had not recovered.
However, as a prosperous trading dimension, the Shkedu Dimension was still very busy. The damage should be able to be completely recovered within a hundred years.
"Wizard Merlin, do you have any plans?"
Wizard Luce asked hesitatingly.
"Wizard Luce, we can be considered to have experienced life and death. After such an adventure, I think I should take my leave! I won't stay at the Shkedu Dimension for long. I'll probably leave soon."
Merlin had a plan from the start to find the Saitu Dimension. He had the coordinates to the Saitu Dimension, so if it was a masterless dimension, Merlin could seize the opportunity to control a dimension.
If he brought Wizard Luce along, although they had a close relationship, it would be very difficult to make a decision if benefits were involved. Therefore, it would be better to just go their separate ways in the Shkedu Dimension.
Wizard Luce also nodded. "After such an adventure, I've also gained a lot, so I plan to just settle down in the Shkedu Dimension, and start fusing Spell Models to become a Great Wizard! Wizard Merlin, come look for me when you come back to the Shkedu Dimension. We'll go on another adventure again!"
"I will, at that time, you'll be a powerful Great Wizard!"
The two Wizards laughed, and chatted for a long while before finally saying goodbye, and separating in the Shkedu Dimension, flying in different directions.
…
"Honorable Wizard, the Pavilion of Rarities…"
Before finishing her words, the beautiful female Wizard raised her head to look at the young Wizard's countenance and froze.
However, she quickly reacted, and hurriedly said, "Honorable Wizard Merlin, please wait a moment. I'll ask the Deputy Pavilion Master to receive you!"
The beautiful female Wizard obviously recognized Merlin. The cause of the large battle which shook the entire Shkedu Dimension was Merlin!
Legend Zado and the Great Blackfire Lord were both Merlin's teachers. How would the Pavilion of Rarities dare to neglect a Wizard with such an identity? Thus, when Merlin appeared, the Pavilion of Rarities could only get their Deputy Pavilion Master to welcome him.
"Haha, Wizard Merlin, welcome to the Pavilion of Rarities."
Before long, the Deputy Pavilion Master, the Great Wizard Leto, came to Merlin with a smile.
"Wizard Leto, we meet again!"
Merlin also smiled. Back then, it was Great Wizard Leto who had sent someone to Arcane City to inform Legend Zado. It was a great help to Merlin.
"Wizard Merlin, what treasures are you looking for this time in the Pavilion of Rarities?"
The Great Wizard Leto was naturally very cordial toward Merlin.
"It's simple. I want the Dispelling Water!"
"The Dispelling Water? Does Wizard Merlin wish to re-cultivate a Pandora Demon Ability? How many do you want?"
"Of course, I want six portions of Dispelling Water. Besides that, you should also have some top-level Fusion Pandora Demon Abilities here, right? After using the Dispelling Water, I naturally need to cultivate Fusion Pandora Demon Abilities. You can prepare all these."
Great Wizard Leto's eyes brightened after Merlin finished speaking. His heart was also excited. Six portions of Dispelling Water plus another six top-level Fusion Pandora Demon Abilities, and some rare items for cultivating Fusion Pandora Demon Abilities.
When everything was prepared, it would be an unimaginably large deal. It might be the biggest business transaction since the founding of the Pavilion of Rarities!
"Wizard Merlin, let's go inside to talk about the details. These things aren't that easy to prepare."
Merlin also knew that this involved too much. Thus, he nodded his head, and followed Great Wizard Leto into a quiet room.
After the two had sat down, only the Great Wizard Leto and Merlin were left in the room. Great Wizard Leto smiled slightly before hesitating and carefully saying, "Wizard Merlin, six portions of Dispelling Water plus six Fusion Pandora Demon Abilities, and the rare items isn't a small sum!"
Seeing Wizard Leto's tentative inquiry, Merlin also knew what he meant, so he calmly nodded and said, "Say it, how many elemental crystal stones are needed? Teacher Blackfire told me before that the Pavilion of Rarities is trustworthy!"
The Great Wizard Leto also knew that Merlin brought up the Blackfire Lord to make himself appear bigger. How would a Great Lord know about an insignificant Pavilion of Rarities? However, the Great Wizard Leto also knew that Merlin was trying to suppress others using force, so this offer could not be too outrageous.
After thinking for a moment, the Great Wizard Leto gritted his teeth and finally said, "Six portions of Dispelling Water originally cost ten million elemental crystal stones each but for Wizard Merlin, we'll make it seven point five million elemental crystal stones each. The total is forty-five million elemental crystal stones!"
Merlin did not react. He knew that the Pavilion of Rarities usually only gave a discount of up to two million elemental crystal stones, but now it was increased by another 500 thousand elemental crystal stones, which should be the limit. Thus, he nodded and motioned for the Great Wizard Leto to continue.
The Great Wizard Leto softly sighed in relief. Doing business with Wizards with strong backgrounds was not easy, and required a lot of pressure. Therefore, he also continued. "As for the six top-level Fusion Pandora Demon Abilities along with their rare items, the Pavilion of Rarities will offer a low price of fifteen million elemental crystal stones!"
Seeing the Great Wizard Leto gritted his teeth like that, Merlin knew that he must have made a great concession because he did not dare to offend the Great Lord behind Merlin.
Forty-five million elemental crystal stones plus fifteen million elemental crystal stones for a total of at least sixty million elemental crystal stones. This was a large number, and it would be difficult even for general Legends to be able to fork out.
Last time, Merlin dug out around ten million elemental crystal stones at the Satsuma Dimension. It was a lot less than sixty million elemental crystal stones.
"Great Wizard Leto, the price of sixty million elemental crystal stones is very reasonable, and I'm also very satisfied. However, I don't have that many elemental crystal stones!"
"Uh… Not enough elemental crystal stones?"
The Great Wizard Leto's expression changed slightly and his mouth could not help but start twitching. Then, he said in a trembling voice, "Wizard Merlin, it's okay. Just… Just take these as a gift from the Pavilion of Rarities to Wizard Merlin and the Blackfire Lord!"
Wizard Leto obviously saw Merlin as a Wizard who wanted to obtain the Dispelling Water by force, but he did not dare to deny him either. Perhaps an Honored Legend would still be slightly fearful toward the Pavilion of Rarities. After all, it was a huge force in the Shkedu Dimension, and faced the nine Honored Legends of the Shkedu Dimension.
However, this was a Great Lord! Never mind just taking some items, even if he was to forcefully destroy the Pavilion of Rarities, the nine Honored Legends would absolutely not dare to stick out for the Pavilion of Rarities.
However, even if it was the Pavilion of Rarities, sixty million elemental crystal stones worth of treasures was a big blow…
Merlin smiled. Although he wanted these things very much, he would not use those kinds of methods to obtain them. Thus, he said slowly, "Great Wizard Leto, I think you're mistaken. I don't have elemental crystal stones but I can exchange some casting tools for them!"
"Casting tools?"
Although the Great Wizard Leto was surprised, he did not refuse. What could one or two casting tools do? It was just for the sake of "looking good" in this exploitative deal.
Merlin naturally saw the Great Wizard Letos' insincerity but did not explain himself either. Instead, he took a pile of casting tools from his Spatial Ring, and dumped them on the ground.
"Great Wizard Leto, what do you think of these casting tools?"
The Great Wizard Leto's eyes widened as he stared dumbfounded at the pile of casting tools on the ground. His expression was also stunned.
"One, two, five, ten… Thirty-two!"
The Great Wizard Leto seemed slightly numb. Perhaps even if he gathered all the casting tools in the Pavilion of Rarities, there would not be as many casting tools. He could see that each of these casting tools was painstakingly made, and was meticulously refined by Legendary Great Alchemists.
"Is it enough? If it isn't, then there's more!"
Merlin pointed at the thirty-two casting tools on the ground, and said indifferently.
Chapter 584: Setting Out
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
There was no one outside the quiet room which was protected by a Runic Magic Circle. Right outside the room was the extremely powerful Pavilion of Rarities.
In the end, Merlin used twenty-eight casting tools in exchange for nearly sixty million worth of elemental crystal stones, thus obtaining the Dispelling Water and Fusion Pandora Demon Abilities he wanted.
For Merlin, there were many casting tools. It might be hard for Great Wizard Leto to imagine but for a good casting tool that required almost two million elemental crystal stones to obtain, Merlin could obtain with just one hundred elemental crystal stones in the Slothful Beast world.
Thus, Merlin did not lack casting tools at all. In the Slothful Beast world, no one knew how many Spell Casters had been devoured over such a long time. They occasionally carried one or two casting tools, so the amount accumulated over such a period was quite frightening.
After obtaining the Dispelling Water, Merlin asked the Great Wizard Leto to arrange a quiet room. The Great Wizard Leto might have also known that Merlin was going to use the Dispelling Water and re-cultivate his Fusion Pandora Demon Abilities, so he specifically told others not to approach this room.
"The Dispelling Water! Let's see just how amazing it is."
Merlin flipped his hand, and a droplet of water that looked full of purity, limpid, and sparkling, appeared. He gently opened his mouth and sucked the liquid, directly consuming one Dispelling Water into his body.
After Merlin swallowed the Dispelling Water, it immediately began to have a reaction. Cool strands of life force appeared in Merlin's body, and he clearly felt the Fire-type Pandora Demon Ability in his body, Fiery Collapse, seemed to melt into the Dispelling Water. It started to gradually be defeated until it finally disappeared!
This process only took a few hours, and Fiery Collapse had disappeared. At least, that was according to Merlin's senses.
"Fire!"
Merlin held out his hand, and a flame gradually flashed in his hands. Although the flame emitted a terrifying temperature, its might was much lower than before.
"Fiery Collapse really was dispelled!"
Merlin stared at the flame, and did not see any trace of the Fusion Pandora Demon Ability. It showed that the Dispelling Water really could eliminate cultivated Fusion Pandora Demon Abilities.
Thus, Merlin quickly took the remaining five portions of Dispelling Water, and all the Fusion Pandora Demon Abilities in his body were soon eliminated. Only the two special Pandora Demon Abilities – Darkness Eye and Glacier Country could not be eliminated.
Darkness Eye and Glacier Country were special Pandora Demon Abilities, and did not belong to the category of Fusion Pandora Demon Abilities. Therefore, the Dispelling Water had no effect on them. What's more, Merlin could now rely on the sixth form of Darkness Eye.
As for Glacial Country, although it was also a special Pandora Demon Ability, Merlin had never been able to improve it. Perhaps it was because he did not have any talent in Ice-type Spells, so Glacial Country was currently not very useful for Merlin.
After all, special Pandora Demon Abilities were different than Fusion Pandora Demon Abilities, and could not be cultivated by just by using some rare items. The requirements for quality was very high, and Merlin had always shown good qualities for Darkness-types. It was because of this reason that he could raise Darkness Eye to its fifth form, and forcefully improved it to its sixth form with the help of the Blackfire Lord.
After eliminating all the Fusion Pandora Demon Abilities, Merlin looked at the six Fusion Pandora Demon Abilities in his hands. All six of these could be considered top Fusion Pandora Demon Abilities, and all of them had three stages. Now that Merlin was a seventh-level Spell Caster, as long as he had enough rare items, he would definitely be able to greatly succeed in the cultivation.
Merlin's own strength would also be significantly improved as long as all these Fusion Pandora Demon Abilities were successfully cultivated. Therefore, Merlin stayed in the house for the next few days, and focused on cultivating the Fusion Pandora Demon Abilities.
…
"Tss."
A white flame that was almost transparent twined around Merlin's fingertip.
Almost half a year had passed. It took longer than Merlin had imagined cultivating the Fusion Pandora Demon Abilities. After all, they were all top Fusion Pandora Demon Abilities, so even with rare items, it would still require a long time to cultivate.
"Not bad. It's much stronger than Fiery Collapse!"
Merlin could feel that the flame on his fingertip was indeed stronger than Fiery Collapse. The Pandora Demon Ability which he had obtained in the Glorious Land could not be said to be weak. It might have been a first-class Pandora Demon Ability.
However, the Spell Caster civilization was developing continuously, and it had several periods of explosive development.
The first stage was the birth of Spell Casters. At that time, Spell Casters started to actively construct Spell Models. Although the early stage was relatively difficult, it was truly an explosive period that quickly swept across the entire Glorious Land.
The second stage was the establishment of the Molta Empire, a nation entirely established by Spell Casters. The Spell Caster civilization also started to control the Molta Empire, and fought against the natural gods in the Glorious Land. It was during this period that Spell Casters rapidly developed, and finally exiled countless gods and completely controlled the Glorious Land.
The third stage was by far the longest and fastest developing stage of the Spell Caster civilization. It started three thousand years ago when Spell Casters walked into the Void Zone, and set foot in myriads of dimensions.
Since then, the Spell Caster civilization had entered an explosive phase where changes happened every day. The Spell Casters' civilization also expanded rapidly. One by one, ordinary Legends, Honored Legends, and Great Lords appeared.
Whether it was alchemy, runology or even constructing Spell Models, they all developed rapidly. Pandora Demon Abilities also developed orderly, and many new Pandora Demon Abilities could be created. Powerful Pandora Demon Abilities in the Glorious Land were nothing compared to the Void Zone after it had undergone development.
According to Merlin's rough calculation, the power of just this top Fire-type Fusion Pandora Demon Ability was at least thirty to fifty percent stronger than that of Fiery Collapse.
This was an extremely terrifying increase!
"Oh? It has succeeded?"
The flame on Merlin's hand was extinguished in an instant. Earlier, he felt that the final Thunder-type Fusion Pandora Demon Ability had been cultivated successfully. It took more than half a year but he had finally completed cultivating the six top Fusion Pandora Demon Abilities!
"Haha, I've finally succeeded. Sixty million elemental crystal stones, let's try out your power!"
Merlin's expression became solemn, and flames immediately appeared on his body. The flames condensed into a fireball as it floated in the air, and a Thunder-type, Wind-type, and Ice-type spell fused into the fireball.
The fireball in Merlin's hand had an extremely peculiar color. Although it was only the size of a fist, it contained frightening fluctuations.
"What's this power?"
Although Merlin knew that the power of the newly cultivated Fusion Pandora Demon Abilities would be improved, after fusing it into spells, the power would increase even more. After all, it was a combination of a perfect-grade spell and a top Pandora Demon Ability.
"Go!"
Merlin casually dropped the combined spell on the ground.
"Boom!"
The entire courtyard shook violently, and at the same time, a terrible shockwave spread in all the directions. Even the Runic Magic Circle surrounding the courtyard was torn to pieces in an instant.
"Rip."
The Runic Magic Circle was destroyed, and the entire Pavilion of Rarities quaked. Great Wizard Leto rushed to the rear court immediately.
"Wizard Merlin, what's this?"
The chaos in the rear court looked like it was caused by a great battle. Perhaps only peak Great Wizard could cause this level of destruction.
Seeing Great Wizard Leto's shocked expression, Merlin shook his head helplessly, and said, "It's nothing. I was just testing out a spell's power but didn't control it properly, which caused some damage to the Pavilion of Rarities. I'll definitely compensate you!"
Great Wizard Leto looked at Merlin with disbelief and incredulity. Previously, he only feared the Blackfire Lord and Legend Zado behind Merlin, and never cared much about Merlin himself.
However, now it seemed that Legend Zado and the Blackfire Lord's brilliance were simply too radiant, and covered up Merlin. To be able to become a disciple of a Great Lord, who was also a Potential Wizard in Arcane City, Merlin's own potential and qualification was terrifying.
"Wizard Merlin is joking. It's just a courtyard. I'll ask someone to clean it up immediately!"
Wizard Leto naturally would not ask Merlin for compensation. The Pavilion of Rarities already made quite a profit from the casting tools from before.
Merlin also nodded, and turned to another room.
Through the test earlier, Merlin became aware that the explosive power of four perfect-grade Seventh-level spells coupled with top Fusion Pandora Demon Abilities was comparable to a peak Great Wizard, similar to Darkness Eye.
There was still a very large difference between peak Great Wizards and top Great Wizards. Top Great Wizards were infinitesimally close to Great Legends, and each had their own incredible tricks. A regular Spell Caster would only be able to reach the level of a peak Great Wizard.
Therefore, whether it was Merlin's combined spells or Darkness Eye, it could only temporarily reach the level of a peak Great Wizard. Perhaps if Merlin had constructed an Eighth-level spell and combined it with a Five-Elemental spell, it would be able to reach the level of a top Great Wizard.
"Phew…"
Merlin let out a long breath and muttered, "I can only get this far for now. Next up, the Saitu Dimension!"
However, before leaving, Merlin took out the illusion bead, and released its restrictions. He could see the situation in the Saitu Dimension by using the illusion bead.
"Whoosh."
Merlin's Mind Projection entered the Illusory World, and materialized before Titus.
"Titus, go look outside. After such a long time, I'm afraid you don't know any of the changes happening outside."
Merlin calmly said.
"Outside?"
Titus gently closed his eyes, and extended his Mind Power to the illusion bead.
"This… This is outside the Slothful Beast world!"
Titus abruptly stood up. Although it was just a remnant of Mind Power, he could not hide his shock as he could feel the Elements through the illusion bead.
The long-lost Elemental power showed that they were now outside the Slothful Beast world!
Merlin quietly looked at Titus as he knew that the shock was too great. Titus had been in the Slothful Beast world for so long that even after he formed the Illusory World, he had no guarantee of leaving the Slothful Beast world.
Now, he had lost all hope. He had died, and only a trace of Mind Power was left but he had finally left the Slothful Beast world.
After a long moment, Titus' mood slowly calmed down.
"Wizard Merlin, although I don't know what method you've used to leave the Slothful Beast world, you really did it! I have a request I hope you'll agree to."
"Request?"
Merlin frowned.
"Yes, I've left my hometown for far too long. I thought I'd never leave the Slothful Beast world… However, it seems like I've returned to the Spell Caster civilization now. I implore Wizard Merlin to go to my hometown in the future so that I may gaze upon my hometown again."
It was a very simple request. Merlin nodded. He did not have any reason to refuse Titus.
"Alright, after I go to the Saitu Dimension, I'll go to your hometown to have a look when I have time!"
Merlin also breathed a sigh of relief. Now that everything was ready, he should leave for the Saitu Dimension.
"Let's go!"
Merlin said farewell to the Great Wizard Leto, and directly flew into the vast Void Zone. In the long journey in the Void Zone, Merlin was also more cautious now that Didimoss was not around. After all, there were dangers everywhere in the Void Zone.