Countless Spells drowned Merlin's figure, and a hint of joy appeared on the faces of Mage Baslow and old Hockton.
However, before they could fully relax, a faint glow instantly enveloped Merlin. At the same time, dull thuds rang out from the smoke-filled center where Merlin stood, now obscured by the barrage of Spells.
At the sound of those muffled impacts, old Hockton's and Mage Baslow's expressions changed sharply. Such sounds meant that the many Spells had been blocked by some casting tool or defensive Spell.
"Blocked?"
Old Hockton could hardly believe it. They had long since determined that Merlin was not a Third-level Spellcaster. At most, he was only a First-level Spellcaster.
Even a First-level Spellcaster could never withstand so many Spells, unless they were Third-level Spellcasters casting Third-Level defensive Spells.
Whoosh.
Suddenly, arcs of electricity began to flicker. Fist-sized Lightning Balls abruptly appeared above the heads of the many Spellcasters.
At the same time, the Lightning Balls flashed with strands of lightning, each one as thick as a finger and containing berserk power.
"Lightning Orb!"
Merlin's voice came from the smoke and dust. Before him floated several stone tablets radiating a murky gray light. Merlin had used an amplification-type casting tool at the very first moment to release an enhanced version of Guardian Monument, allowing him to withstand so many Spell attacks.
"He really didn't die! He must have a powerful amplification-type casting tool. Even the First-Level Spell he casts can actually rival a Third-Level Spell!"
A strange look flashed across Baslow's face. If he had not seen it with his own eyes, he would not have believed such a powerful amplification-type casting tool existed. Yet Merlin's Guardian Monument was indeed only a First-Level defensive Spell, but it was enough to rival some Third-Level Spells.
Aside from an