The Legendary Mage (Alavin)
Chapter 157

Alavin was deep in meditation, seated cross-legged, when it happened a breakthrough! Yes, a breakthrough had occurred just moments before! The electric glimmers that enveloped him began to subside

steadily.

Novice Mage Stage IX! The long-coveted realm of power!

A transformation was evident throughout his being-spirit, veins, Energy Realm, constitution, and so much more-all had been enhanced comprehensively as if he were already preparing to ascend to the rank of an Advanced Mage.

He could now clearly feel the change within-a sublime, ethereal sensation. A pervasive strength was coursing through his body, and the surging magic was within his Energy Realm and Channel of Energy. A breakthrough!

Overcome with excitement and emotion, Alavin could hardly wait to test his newfound strength.

When the Bloodlore Commander and Eyla entered the room, Alavin was completing the circulation of magic through his Channel of Energy, dispersing the last of the electric glow.

The pair studied him with a hint of surprise. Was he in the midst of a breakthrough seclusion?

The Bloodlore Commander regarded Alavin intently as if confirming the breakthrough. The young one was interesting indeed. Reaching Stage VIII within a year was impressive enough, but to break through again during The Clash of Eight Orders was extraordinary.

"Commander Jarad, greetings," Alavin said, steadying his breath and looking at them curiously.

"Congratulations, Stage IX," Eyla purred, her red lips parting in a seductive smile.

A little fox leaped into Alavin's arms, nuzzling affectionately and breathing in the comforting Restoration Aether that wafted around him.

"It seems quite fond of you. Would you like it as a gift?"

"I couldn't possibly accept."

"Do you know what kind of creature it is?"

"It must be precious, but it's too much for me to take."

Eyla moved closer to Alavin, reclaiming the little fox into her arms with a dazzling smile. "My grandfather nearly lost his life to acquire it."

Alavin straightened his posture slightly. This woman was indeed tempting, not just in her attire, but also with an innate aura of allure that seemed to emanate from within, causing his heart to flutter. Without any deliberate flirtation, her every glance and smile radiated remarkable charm.

"Who is your mentor?" Jarad couldn't believe someone would rise so suddenly without reason. Some said it was due to a buildup of power; others spoke of a transformation as profound as a storm shaping a resilient tree, but he suspected Alavin had come upon some fortuitous encounter. This fortune might've been related to what Alavin called 'Shadowlord's Wrath,' and that ancient sword even the Cobalt Strike Commander had not seen before.

"I have no mentor."

"And what about the presence within you?" Jarad suddenly chuckled. He had his suspicions from the stands, but now, up close, he was sure of it. There was a power hidden within Alavin, an energy that decidedly wasn't his own.

"I'm not sure what you mean," Alavin said defensively.

"Don't worry. Others can't sense it."

"What is inside him?" Eyla's interest in Alavin grew.

"Hard to see, it's hidden deep," Jarad admitted, feeling a surge of curiosity to investigate, but he restrained himself.

"Why are you here?"

"If I invited you to join Bloodlore, would you consider it?" An offer from the head of an organization was an honor that could excite and make proud any individual.

Alavin didn't ponder long, politely declining. "Thank you for your kind offer, but I am already committed to another organization."

"What if I could help you with the troubles at Azure Mountain?"

Alavin looked at Jarad earnestly. "You've been investigating me?"

Eyla blinked and laughed softly, her allure undeniable. "Join Bloodlore, and we'll handle your Stormcast grudges. My grandfather will take you as an Elite Protégé. Whatever conditions you desire, just name them."

Alavin shook his head. "I appreciate the gesture, but I am not worthy of such recruitment."

"How do you not understand your own value?"

"I've already pledged to the Mollen family."

"Bloodlore can clear the path for you. I only want you," the Bloodlore Commander said, showing rare interest in a person.

"The Mollen family has done me a great service. I owe them a debt," Alavin politely refused.

"Are you

certain you won't reconsider?"

"I am honored," Alavin reiterated his stance.

He wasn't sure of the Bloodlore Commander's true intentions. Was it mere curiosity or a desire to study the 'energy' within him? Also, Alavin considered his kin and the townspeople; if he truly left Cobalt Strike to join Bloodlore, he would likely be deemed a traitor. Cobalt Strike might absolve the charges from Stormcast, but they wouldn't easily forgive, and who knew what terrible actions they might take?

He needed to protect Stormcast and ensure it wouldn't fall into war again. It was his parents' legacy and the debt he owed to the two hundred thousand townsfolk.

The Bloodlore Commander left with a sense of regret, not insisting further.