Merlin suddenly looked up at the sky, feeling a tangible gaze focused on him, making him feel as if every secret he held had been laid bare.
"A seventh-level mage!"
Merlin clenched his hands tightly. He knew it was the gaze of a seventh-level mage. Though separated by vast distance, the intensity of the gaze was unmistakable. It lingered on him for a moment before disappearing, allowing Merlin a moment of relief.
"I've revealed my status as a six-element mage. I wonder if it's enough to catch the interest of those seventh-level mages," he murmured. The reason he had unleashed such an intense display against Mage Neal, utterly overwhelming him, was not only due to Holmes' request but also to make an impression on the lofty seventh-level mages.
Meanwhile, Mage Neal glared at Merlin, his face contorted with resentment. Bitter thoughts churned as he whispered, "Didn't even get a chance to fight… my path has been completely cut off!"
Narrow-minded and vengeful by nature, Neal had come to this tournament brimming with confidence, aiming to shine and capture the attention of the powerful seventh-level mages. But fate dealt him Merlin—a six-element mage with superior power and potential—who defeated him without allowing him a single move, right at the moment those mages were watching. Neal was left simmering in frustration and envy.
Noticing Neal's bitter gaze, Merlin frowned slightly. Neal was clearly the sort to harbor grudges. But Merlin dismissed the thought quickly. Neal was, after all, merely a three-element mage who had only managed to construct one advanced spell so far. He didn't even hold as much potential as Holmes. Merlin trusted that Mage Gret knew what he was doing by valuing Holmes more. But someone like Neal, driven by petty resentments, wouldn't understand that.
Returning to the platform, Merlin was met by Anlina and the others, their eyes wide with awe as if he were some mythical creature.
"Merlin, you've constructed six spells?" Anlina couldn't resist asking.
Although she spoke quietly, the silence around them meant that her question resonated. Mages from other towers also turned to stare at Merlin.
Seeing no reason to hide it, Merlin nodded calmly. "That's right. I've constructed six zero-level spells."
The confirmation left everyone astounded. Even though they had already witnessed Merlin's numerous spells, hearing him confirm his six-element status was shocking.
Three-element mages were common, and four-element mages were considered talented. Five-element mages were rare, and only one, Mage Cress, had achieved that status within the Dark Domain in recent centuries. But a six-element mage? Such a phenomenon was almost unheard of, even among the most elite magical organizations.
The other mages watched Merlin with astonishment, even those of the fourth level or higher.
Among the spectators, a fourth-level mage, Mage Nasha, commented with admiration to Mage Leo, "Congratulations, Mage Leo, on having such an extraordinary student."
Leo allowed a rare smile to slip across his face, though it appeared more like a grimace due to his hollow eyes and the eerie blood-red eye on his forehead, which exuded a faint red glow.
Mage Nasha, known for her teaching skill, asked, "Leo, did you tell Merlin just how challenging it is for a six-element mage to advance to the first level?"
Though Leo's expression remained stoic, a note of respect entered his voice. "This was Merlin's choice... But, Nasha, don't you think he reminds you of my younger self?"
Nasha's eyes softened, her gaze returning to Merlin. She was one of the few who knew the sacrifice Leo had made to achieve his unique powers. Against all odds and despite the doubts of even the seventh-level mages, he had sacrificed his sight to forge the Dark Eye.
"Yes," she replied softly. "Merlin's as determined as you were. But Leo, as things stand, Merlin might struggle to reach the first level within two years, let alone attract the seventh-level mages' favor. He may end up forced to leave the Dark Domain."
Leo looked deeply at Merlin before replying, "I believe he has what it takes. Let's see how far he can go."
Nasha glanced at the highest towers in the Dark Domain, where the seventh-level mages resided. If one of those powerful figures took an interest in Merlin, it might change everything.
---
As the tournament neared its climax, only four mages remained. Each of them had drawn the attention of the seventh-level mages, their every move under scrutiny.
Merlin carefully assessed the other three contestants. Through Anlina, he had learned a little about each of them.
There was Cecil, a formidable four-element mage with a single advanced spell. Each of his zero-level spells was considered complex and powerful, the type usually worth five contribution points each in the Exchange Tower. Desperate to prove himself, Cecil was hoping to earn the favor of the seventh-level mages.
Another mage was Loann, Merlin's next opponent. Although Loann had only three elements, he was one advanced spell away from becoming a first-level mage, making him a formidable rival.
Finally, there was Mage Abel, another four-element mage who had managed to reach this stage without an advanced spell, relying entirely on an array of magical artifacts. Even Merlin couldn't predict how a battle against him would go.
"The seventh round: Mage Abel versus Mage Cecil!"
"The seventh round: Mage Merlin versus Mage Loann!"
The crowd's focus turned toward Merlin. The presence of a six-element mage was a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle, and all eyes were on him as he prepared to face Loann.
Standing up slowly, Merlin spotted Loann across the way. Sensing Merlin's gaze, Loann smiled politely and gave him a slight nod.
Both mages stepped onto the platform, and as the protective magic barrier sealed the space, an air of intense anticipation filled the air. Merlin glanced toward Mage Leo, sitting on the distant stone seats. Though his face was expressionless, the blood-red eye on Leo's forehead was open, faintly glowing.
"Merlin," Loann spoke up, his tone as casual as if they were old friends, "I truly admire your courage to construct six elements. I didn't dare attempt even four."
"It was a risky move," Merlin replied calmly, "but I respect that you're on the verge of becoming a first-level mage. Reaching that level is a true milestone on the mage's path."
Although the two seemed calm, their eyes held an unmistakable determination. Neither of them intended to lose this match.
"Well then, let's begin!" Loann's expression sharpened, his gaze flicking toward the high towers of the Dark Domain. There was a glint of ambition in his eyes.
The arena's protective barrier activated, sealing them in, and the stage was set for a fierce battle.