The Legendary Mage (Alavin)
Chapter 124

"Novice Mage Stage VIII!" Marthew suddenly exclaimed, even more incredulously than before. Alavin's realm had clearly ascended to Stage VIII.

Nikulas and the others' expressions grew slightly more solemn, their gaze towards Alavin shifting and changing. When he last defeated Galos, he was but at Novice Mage Stage V. In mere months, he had soared directly to Stage VIII; moreover, judging by his performance against Adirich and Gwenda, his realm seemed to have stabilized.

Was this lad's growth unnaturally swift?

Balder's eyes burned with fervor as he looked at Alavin, thinking, "What is a genius, if not this? Alavin had made the entire cohort of Cobalt Strike's Elite Protégés into a jest! Ha, I've truly bet on the right treasure!"

"Alavin will replace Gwenda in The Clash of Eight Orders," the Cobalt Strike Commander declared once more, thoroughly pleased with Alavin's recent display. The simple clash had justified Alavin's stance and allowed the Commander, a dignified exit.

"Has Alavin gained the favor of the Mollen family?" Myke murmured softly, casting a intense look at Balder as he mingled with the crowd. The sudden visit by the Mollen family patriarch suggested that Alavin's affair might have been the cause, possibly extracting a high price for the Commander to change his stance. Yet, it was unknown what Alavin had sacrificed in return.

"Alavin refuses to remain a servant and is beginning to fight back; the Mollen family is his only choice," Nikulas nodded slowly. Alavin must have paid some price, for it is no easy feat to call upon the patriarch of the Mollen family. But upon reflection, Alavin had reasons that compelled him; he was not only fed up but had also grown up, and, more importantly, had realized his own potential. He would no longer be content as a slave nor endure oppression.

Cedrick chuckled, "A prodigy with boundless potential, not nurtured by Cobalt Strike, and forced to seek refuge with the merchants. Is this Alavin's tragedy, or Cobalt Strike's?"

He made no effort to conceal his voice, immediately drawing the ire of a nearby middle-aged Protégé and several Elders.

The entire assembly of Protégés erupted in fervor, finally grasping what had transpired.

"The Commander is replacing Gwenda with Alavin?"

"Novice Mage Stage VIII?"

"The lad grows more monstrous by the day; how does he do it?!"

"While others progress by the month, he progresses by the day."

"Is he truly up for it? His realm is clear for all to see. The Clash of Eight Orders is a gathering of champions, for all the top Protégés from various Organizations, and Alavin is a full Stage behind." "Adirich and Gwenda were simply unprepared and suffered from Alavin's brute strength."

"This lad really knows how to surprise people. He took Gwenda's place!"

A minor interlude did not dampen the atmosphere; rather, it sparked even more intense discussion. Some even speculated whether the Commander's personal selection of Alavin was a sign of recognition, and whether Alavin's status would change henceforth. After all, participating in The Clash of Eight Orders was an honor in itself.

The Commander, looking at Alavin, publicly stated, "Win a match in The Clash of Eight Orders, and I shall release you from servitude, elevating you to Senior Protégé."

This was his expectation of Alavin, as well as an incitement. "Just don't disgrace us in The Clash of Eight Order." Winning one match will be an accomplishment; expecting a grand victory is implausible. The true glory was for Roald and the others to strive for.

Alavin nodded his thanks, but his heart harbored different plans. He remained with Cobalt Strike with the goal of rescuing his kin from Azure Mountain; should his family be freed from their plight, there would be no reason for him to stay with Cobalt Strike. This was one of the main reasons he was willing to pay any price to participate in The Clash of Eight Orders.

He had had enough of this place!

"Commander, I urge you to reconsider," Adirich could not contain his frustration.

"Commander, The Clash of Eight Orders is no trifling matter," Roald spoke up publicly, dismissing Alavin's chances.

The Commander sternly reminded them, "From this day until the end of The Clash of Eight Orders, you ten must unite and strive for the honor of Cobalt Strike. Any infighting, sabotage, or actions that undermine unity will not be taken lightly!"

With that, he silenced all objections.

Adirich turned and glanced at Gwenda being carried away. His fist clenched in silent resolve to step down.

Myke chuckled lightly, extending a gesture of goodwill to Alavin. "Welcome to the fold; this team could use some vitality."

"You..." Adirich was already fuming.

"Adirich!" Golden Protégé Admus stopped Adirich. He was also an Elite Protégé of a Grand Elder, and younger than Adirich by half a year. Yet, his realm was much stronger, having been stable in Novice Mage Stage IX for over a year. He was just lacking the right opportunity.

Alavin strode into the ranks, his demeanor serene and undisturbed.

"Welcome!" Cedrick declared heartily.

"Go for it," whispered Mariela with a gentle, encouraging tone.

Nikulas, ever the boisterous one, clapped a hand on Alavin's shoulder. "How did you manage it?" he asked with a broad grin.