The Legendary Mage (Alavin)
Chapter 160

Over the years, each cohort of Top 5 Protégés generally had a bright future-barring a few untimely deaths, most grew to become Elders in their Organization or ventured beyond the Northlands, towards the Capital, the Kingdoms, to a broader world, carving out their own legacies. Being a part of this and witnessing it was an anticipation in its own right.

"Six Advanced Mages, four Novice Mages-it's quite promising."

"Alavin won't have a chance to compete. With only three left in the Novice Mage category, how will the competition proceed?"

"Haven't the Commanders made a decision? Will they let the three battle it out, or what?"

"By the rules, there are three spots for Advanced Mages and two for Novice Mages among the top five. Who will be chosen this time? Cedrick and the other two are all strong; it's a close match." "I actually quite wish Alavin would take the stage once more."

"Alavin might be a bit out of his league, considering his current level-it's a stroke of luck that he made it into the top ten. I doubt he's ready to stand against the likes of Cedrick; stepping into the arena is likely to end in defeat."

"Don't worry about it. The Commanders will have a plan in place. We just need to wait and see."

"The whole city's abuzz with predictions now. I'm quite looking forward to it."

The Cobalt Strike team was the last to arrive at the gathering grounds, where Commander Kashann nodded to the other seven Commanders, all of whom turned their gaze to Alavin in the ranks. Word of Alavin's breakthrough the previous night had spread, and now he'd surely be in today's battle for the top five.

"Alavin? He actually showed up." Some spectators gasped incredulously as they watched the approaching Cobalt Strike team, with Alavin and Cedrick, two of the top ten, leading the way, both looking hale and hearty.

"Eh? Has he healed? Just the day before yesterday, he was carried off half-dead. Has he recovered too quickly?"

"What kind of potion did Cobalt Strike feed him? How has he healed in two days?"

A soft chuckle came from the Bloodlore team. "He's not just healed. He's broken through To a new stage!"

"Novice Mage Stage IX?" The news spread rapidly, causing a stir among the protégés of various organizations. Was this a case of breaking down and then standing taller than before?

"Stage IX! Is he competing for the top five?" The Stellar Precepts Protégé, Jackar, suddenly frowned; he was one of the top ten and due to enter the fray today. But he truly didn't want to face a madman like Alavin. That wouldn't be a contest. It would be a fight for survival! Alavin was wild enough at Stage VIII, and now with a breakthrough and his power surging, how much more intense would his madness be? Many quickly grasped the significance. Alavin was vying for the top five! And it seemed he had a good chance.

But who would he face? The Stellar Precepts' Jackar? Or Bloodlore's Jevan?

Many looked towards the two, with mischievous smiles, asking, "Who's going to fight him?"

Jevan's expression darkened. "You think Cedrick's easy to handle? Two madmen! Each crazier than the last!"

Bloodlore's Eyla and The Stellar Precepts' Darron each advised Jevan and Jackar. "Try to pick Cedrick if you can."

Compared to Cedrick's ferocity, Alavin had an edge of danger, especially his Shadowlord's Wrath, which was hard to resist. And while Cedrick was a wild and proud warrior, Alavin was utterly reckless with his life. Given the choice, they preferred their fellow protégé to face Cedrick; at least there was a semblance of a fighting chance.

"Commander Kashann, my early congratulations, the hope for a spot in the top five is strong this year," the old Lord greeted the Cobalt Strike Commander with a congratulatory smile.

"Not at all, Jackar and Jevan are both very skilled. Nothing is certain until the end."

"Who will you choose?" Alavin asked Cedrick, personally leaning towards The Stellar Precepts' Jackar.

"I choose you," Cedrick said expressionlessly.

"What?"

"I've told you before, I want to challenge you."

Nikulas coughed lightly from behind. "Take it easy, shall we?"

At that moment, the Eight Orders Protégés were all accounted for, and the old Lord announced loudly. "Let's set out!!"