Chapter 272: The Same Reputation
Merlot staggered into his quarters, his body wracked with a surge of intense pain. The bloodthread was crawling through his veins, causing them to bulge ominously. Each throb felt like a dagger twisting inside him.
’You can’t fight me back!’ Devon’s voice echoed menacingly in his mind. The demon’s presence was becoming more insistent, pressing against Merlot’s consciousness with increasing strength.
This was a dire situation. Devon’s influence was growing stronger, and Merlot could feel the demon’s attempt to breach his defenses during the ceremony. Devon had even tried to reach out to the queen through telepathy, though Merlot had managed to block it—barely.
"Damn you! You’re jeopardizing my plans!" Merlot roared, his voice a mix of anger and agony. "Do you realize that the king will end you in a snap the moment he finds out I’m hosting you in my body?" His growl was punctuated by spasms of pain that made him writhe uncontrollably.
Sweat poured down his face as though he were being seared alive. The pain was overwhelming, almost unbearable.
"Hah! There’s no use in resisting," Devon taunted, his voice dripping with confidence. "I will prevail over you, no matter what."
’That can’t be,’ Merlot grunted through gritted teeth. It was supposed to be just Devon’s bloodthread—how could it have such a powerful hold? His eyes widened in realization, and he whispered with growing dread, "That bitch Marla!"
Merlot was certain that Marla was behind the recent turmoil. The sorceress had escaped, and although he had been tracking her, she was incredibly skilled at hiding.
He lost track of time as he fought Devon in his subconscious mind, determined not to let the demon take control of his body. The struggle was exhausting, but Merlot remained focused. He used meditation to center himself and strengthen his resolve.
Devon was undeniably powerful, but Merlot was a formidable being in his own right. He refused to let the demon overpower him. With every ounce of his will, he battled to maintain control and prevent Devon from seizing dominance.
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