Ch. 101Changing the Gods by Human Power!
Key Plot Points and Events
- Merlin, imprisoned by Duncan, is brought along with the army to campaign against Camelot.
- Duncan's army faces little resistance, with tribal chieftains surrendering en masse, showing loyalty to the Empire's banner.
- Duncan uses psychological warfare to pressure and tempt the tribes into submission.
- Merlin is taken to the Avalon Sanctuary, where Duncan initiates a grand ritual to change the faith of Avalon.
- The ritual succeeds, transforming Avalon's core divine office from its original aspect to agriculture, with the Guardian Fairies adopting a more maternal, nurturing form.
Character Developments
- Merlin realizes Duncan's grand strategy and talent, feeling defeated and useless.
- Duncan shows his disregard for minor infractions, ordering the execution of unruly soldiers.
- Merlin is used as the conductor of the Avalon Sanctuary ritual, marking his importance in Duncan's plans.
Significant Themes
- The power of faith and its impact on society.
- The use of psychological warfare in conquest.
- The transformation of a deity's core divine office and its consequences.
Character Interactions
- Duncan and Merlin: Duncan mocks Merlin, revealing he has no intention of using him to negotiate with King Uther. Instead, he tasks Merlin with helping in the Avalon Sanctuary ritual.
- Merlin and Triss (Raven Queen): Merlin is shocked to see Triss willingly yield her position, realizing Duncan's plan to change the faith of Avalon.
- Duncan and the Guardian Fairies: Duncan watches the ritual from the God's Eye View of Dimensional Space. Upon its completion, the Guardian Fairies bow to him, acknowledging his role in their transformation.