Return to the Land of Glory (Part One)

"Merlin, tell me what you want! You contributed more than anyone to this War of Civilizations. Whatever you ask for, just say it!"

Only the Blackfire Monarch and Santo remained in the castle's spacious hall.

The smile on Santo's face showed how pleased he was. Since becoming an Arcane Mage, this was the first time he had led the forces of Santo City of Arcane alone against a powerful civilization—and won.

It had been dangerous, but they had won in the end. With this victory, Santo City of Arcane would grow stronger even faster.

As the greatest contributor to the war, Merlin would find Santo anything but stingy. Even if Merlin asked him to divine his future again, Santo was prepared to agree.

Seeing Merlin hesitate, the Blackfire Monarch nodded and said, "Merlin, don't hold back. Say it—whatever you want. I'm sure Santo will grant it!"

Santo merely smiled at the Blackfire Monarch's pointed hint. "That's right, Merlin. Ask for anything."

Merlin considered it for a moment before speaking softly. "There is something I need your help with. You may not know this, Santo, but I come from the Land of Glory. After all these years, I'd like to go back and see it. I've never been able to find a clue to its whereabouts, though, so..."

"Go back to the Land of Glory?"

Santo's smile froze, and his expression gradually darkened.

"Blackfire Monarch, please step outside. I'll explain this to Merlin alone."

Santo looked grave now. He had even asked the Blackfire Monarch to leave.

The Blackfire Monarch seemed to know something of the Land of Glory's secrets. Without a word, he rose and left the castle.

"Santo, is it difficult to return to the Land of Glory?"

Merlin was puzzled. He had heard only a little about it: