Chapter 231: A Hasty Departure

"**Fifth-Level Dark Spell: Strangling Storm!**"

Merlin held the tome describing the fifth-level spell, carefully reading through its details.

The **Strangling Storm** was a quintessential fifth-level dark spell. Upon activation, it unleashed a tempest of dark elements that served as both an overwhelmingly powerful attack and a disorienting illusion. The chaos it created left opponents scrambling, unable to effectively counter it.

It earned its name for its unparalleled ferocity—engulfing everything in its wake. Even highly skilled spellcasters faced severe injuries or death when caught in its path. This made it one of the most potent fifth-level spells.

"Indeed, fifth-level dark spells go beyond illusions. They carry devastating physical attacks as well," Merlin mused.

While the **Nightmare of Shadows** had already reached the pinnacle of illusion magic at the fourth level, the next step in dark spell evolution was to integrate real-world effects. Spells at this level combined illusion with tangible power.

Without hesitation, Merlin chose **Strangling Storm** as his fifth-level spell.

The final decision was the sixth-level spell. Merlin recalled Leo's mention of the legendary **Annihilation Beam,** widely regarded as the ultimate dark spell.

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### **The Annihilation Beam**

The **Annihilation Beam** was so powerful that even Leo had failed to construct it successfully in his prime. Its origins were shrouded in mystery—no one knew who first created it or how long it had existed. Yet, it was renowned as the apex of dark magic.

This spell wasn't just revered in modern times; for over three millennia, a spellcaster's ability to construct the **Annihilation Beam** was considered a hallmark of genius.

> **Description:** "The Annihilation Beam is a single streak of black light that embodies unparalleled destructive power. It obliterates everything in its path and can rival the might of many seventh-level spells."

Leo had emphasized its unparalleled might during their discussions. Though constructing the spell had eluded countless talented mages, Merlin had the **Matrix** at his disposal—a tool that could simplify even the most complex spell models. He felt confident that he could achieve what so many others had failed to do.

Moreover, with the augmentation of his **third-level Dark Heart**, the **Annihilation Beam** would likely reach unimaginable levels of potency.

Decisive as ever, Merlin located the tome for the **Annihilation Beam** and brought it to Tesman.

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### The Guardian's Doubts

"Tesman, these are the spells I've selected," Merlin said, laying the tomes on the table.

Tesman's sharp eyes flickered as he skimmed through the chosen titles. His expression hardened slightly, betraying his astonishment.

"**Tide of Shadows** and **Dark Vortex** are manageable, but the **Nightmare of Shadows?** That spell is the pinnacle of illusion magic, and its complexity surpasses even some basic sixth-level spells. As for the **Annihilation Beam**… only true dark-element prodigies have ever succeeded in constructing it!"

Tesman studied Merlin, his gaze filled with doubt and curiosity.

Merlin, however, remained calm, merely smiling as he replied, "Yes, I've made my choices. Please disable the runic protections on these tomes."

Tesman hesitated but eventually began drawing intricate symbols in the air. Each rune glowed faintly before merging with the tomes, nullifying their protective enchantments. With a nod, he handed the unsealed tomes back to Merlin.

Satisfied, Merlin quickly stored the tomes in his ring, offering Tesman a polite bow before leaving the library.

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### A Sense of Accomplishment

Walking out of the library, Merlin felt a sense of satisfaction. Not only had he successfully cultivated the **Dark Heart**, but he also acquired a full suite of dark spells spanning levels two through six. His future in dark magic seemed promising.

Though eager to begin constructing his second-level spell, Merlin knew he wasn't yet ready. His mental strength, while at the third-level spellcaster tier, still needed refinement. With steady cultivation, he could achieve the qualitative leap required to ascend to the fourth level, significantly enhancing his capabilities.

Outside the library, Leo stood waiting, the blood-red eye on his forehead glinting faintly. "Have you made your selections?" he asked.

Merlin nodded respectfully. "Yes, I've chosen my spells."

"Good. It's time for us to leave," Leo said, relief evident in his tone. He turned to Hobbes. "The remaining half of the **Dark Eye** method will be handed over before we leave the Abyssal Fortress. For now, escort us out."

Hobbes frowned slightly, suspicion flickering in his eyes. However, given the magnitude of their transaction, Leo wouldn't dare withhold the rest of the method. Reluctantly, Hobbes nodded. "Fine. We'll escort you to the fortress's exit."

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### The Exit

Exiting the Abyssal Fortress was no small feat. Hobbes and the other two seventh-level mages, Gesello and Barynn, flanked Leo and Merlin as they made their way through the labyrinthine tunnels. Their watchful gazes ensured no foul play would occur.

Finally, the group emerged from the fortress into the open wilderness. Hobbes halted and turned to Leo.

"Well, we're outside the fortress. Now, the second half of the **Dark Eye** method?"

Without hesitation, Leo retrieved a neatly bound manuscript from his ring and handed it to Hobbes.

Hobbes's eyes lit up as he eagerly skimmed the pages. A satisfied grin spread across his face. "Excellent. You're free to leave."

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### A Hasty Departure

Without further delay, Leo summoned a surge of wind elemental energy, whisking Merlin away at breakneck speed. They rapidly distanced themselves from the fortress.

Merlin, curious about Leo's urgency, hesitated before asking, "Leo, why the rush? Could there be an issue with the **Dark Eye** method?"

Leo smirked coldly. "The method is genuine, without a doubt. However, to succeed in cultivating the **Dark Eye** using my approach, the Abyssal Fortress will need to sacrifice dozens—perhaps even hundreds—of sixth-level spellcasters. Only then might one succeed."

"Hundreds of sixth-level spellcasters?" Merlin's eyes widened. The Abyssal Fortress barely had twenty sixth-level mages in total. Such a cost was unimaginable.

Leo nodded. "My method has a fatal flaw, one I intentionally left unresolved. The Abyssal Fortress will soon discover this bitter truth, but by then, it will be too late to seek retribution."

Merlin glanced back at the now-distant fortress, a wry smile tugging at his lips. "They've been duped… but there's nothing they can do about it."

"Exactly," Leo said, his expression indifferent. "Now focus on your training. You've gained much, but the path ahead is long."