The evening breeze of a summer night always brings a soothing calm.
From the castle windows, looking down at the brightly lit streets, one could easily imagine the happy smiles gracing the faces of the people under King Arthur's reign.
Watching this, the Flower Magician's lips curled into a gentle smile.
"Planting, livestock, travel, security, status — you changed everything for them, and for me as well. My king, you are truly a magnificent presence, bringing this mythical land to life in the mortal world. You've illuminated the night, strengthened humanity, and opened new frontiers. I wouldn't be surprised if soon you conquer even the skies, right?"
Merlin, who had always been strict in teaching Artoria, now praised her generously with a casual tone.
Everything Arthur did was extraordinary.
Even Merlin, known as the Flower Magician, had never imagined such a future.
Centered around the divine godhead, faith collected from the people of Camelot was transformed into manageable magical energy, then fed back into every aspect of their lives.
The faith of the people turned into the glowing streetlights that lit the night.
They brought leisure time to those busy with daily toil.
Even after dark, the streets were filled with songs and dances.
Arthur invented countless games to enrich people's lives. Though their days were busy and their pace tense, their stress was eased.
The Guards' duties expanded; safety was guaranteed, bringing a justice once unimaginable.
The city's spiritual veins pulsed with magic, nourishing the people's bodies — strengthening their health with every passing day.
Castrated pigs and sheep, accelerated in growth by unique magics, were exported far and wide, cutting off imitation and bringing continuous wealth.
Roads guided the people, new shops sold diverse goods, and the economy thrived.
"You once said Camelot's streets were deserted, that this so-called paradise was barren. No flowers bloomed forever, and no laughter was eternal. But you changed everything. Sometimes I wonder… can you create a miracle and bring eternal prosperity?" Merlin sighed with genuine sincerity.
"You and I both know it's all relative. Nothing lasts forever — not even dynasties. No matter how glorious they were, they all fade into the sunset eventually."
"Perhaps. The laws of the world are harsh. But now, you can be proud. There's no doubt you've surpassed every king in British history."
"Is that so?"
"Yes. And I believe that as wise as you are, you won't kill a wise man who's loyal to you, right?" Merlin turned to Arthur, eyes sad, tone pleading.
Yes — Merlin was being hunted by Arthur.
Behind him, Miss Skadi, the third seat of the Knights of the Round Table, stood ready.
Elsewhere, the other Knights searched the castle for him.
The hunt had started months ago, just after the Roman envoys' visit. Merlin could never have imagined he'd be hunted from spring into summer for such a reason.
When Arthur approached him wielding the Holy Sword of the Star, Merlin was nearly paralyzed with fear.
That's the Holy Sword of the Star!
Even immortal incubus demons fall before its golden light!
"I'll really die. Really!"
If begging worked, Merlin would have dropped to his knees then and there.
A man can bend and stretch.
"I, the Flower Magician, kneel and lick my king's feet — what's wrong with that?"
"I'm still useful — don't cut me down!" Merlin raised his hands in surrender.
Arthur sneered.
If I don't cut you down, are you planning to celebrate the New Year like this?
But his laughter died instantly as a system alert appeared.
[Task Trigger]
Broken Sword
Request: The mighty Sword Emperor covets you. How can a king surrender? If he is the Sword Emperor, then shatter his sword.
Reward: Props — Heaven's Will, Kunlun Wonderland (Domain)
[Forbearance]
Requirements: The weak have their ways to survive, inferior to the strong but never surrendering. They wait like poisonous snakes for the chance to defeat the Sword Emperor.
Reward: Item — Fruit of the Sacred Tree
Based on past experience, mission rewards scale with difficulty.
Both rewards were generous. The Kunlun Wonderland alone was worth the effort — anything related to the immortals was precious. The other reward, Fruit of the Sacred Tree, seemed like a treasure from the Naruto world, filled with natural planetary energy — the source of ninja chakra.
Given Camelot's current strength, the system offering these rewards was a clear sign of Rome's immense power.
Most importantly: why had the Sword Emperor set his sights on him?
Arthur pondered deeply.
He had been humble when the Roman envoys visited last time.
Could it be that the Roman emperor was a gay and had fallen in love with him?
No, the only explanation was Merlin's mischief during his visit to Rome.
Now the Romans' attention had turned fully to Camelot.
Yes, that must be it!
Arthur's gaze chilled further toward Merlin.
"Skadi, kill him."
"Really want to cut it?" Skadi hesitated.
The kind-hearted killer whale lady didn't want to bully the two-legged beast, even if this white-haired one was maddening.
"No, no, no! My king, let's talk this over. If you have difficulties, tell me, and we'll find a solution together," Merlin begged for mercy instantly.
Arthur said flatly, "Because of you, the Roman emperor is planning to attack us. Don't you think you deserve to die?"
Merlin blinked, confused.
"My fault? What did I even do?"
He couldn't remember anything too serious.
If anything, maybe he'd tricked some nobles, revealed local secrets, and caused a city-wide riot… but surely not enough to provoke the Roman emperor's wrath.
It made no sense.
He glanced toward the Roman Palace.
Upon reflection, the situation was far worse than he thought.
He wanted to speak up — but the reason why he stayed silent was simple.
Merlin looked at Arthur quietly, knowing that if he spoke, the king would kill him.
Still, his eyes softened, admiring Arthur's unyielding charm.
Arthur, with a sullen face, silently produced a collar.
"I heard an incubus has no gender. Is that true?"
Merlin, danger!