The Legendary Mage (Alavin)
Chapter 172

"Does that make a difference?"

Lylian gestured to her developing figure. "Isn't the difference obvious?"

"You little brat." The older girls playfully pushed her into a room and closed the door behind them, erupting in giggles.

"Quite a crowd today;. After the competition was over, everyone's here to relax," Balder said with a grin, watching them disappear into the room.

"Hurry, lead the way," Alavin urged, somewhat embarrassed.

"We're nearly there." The guard led them through turns and twists until they reached the so-called VIP area and entered a room filled with steam. Inside was a large pool, lined with smooth stones.

"Fine wine, fine food, bring it quickly," Balder said as he slipped a few gold coins to the guard. "Make sure the ale's good."

"Just a moment, the dishes will be served shortly," the guard replied with a smile before gently closing the door behind him.

Soon enough, the three of them were lounging in their bathrobes, soaking contentedly in the pool while beautiful serving maidens brought them food and drink, setting them around the pool's edge. The young maidens were vibrant and cheery, clad in thin gowns. Their lithe and tantalizing figures were slightly veiled, adding to the allure.

"My lord, would you require any other services?" one of the fetching maidens asked. Kneeling by the pool, her cheeks flushed, and her voice sounded soft and gentle.

"Hm?" Alavin was startled but caught the implication in the maiden's doe-eyed gaze and became even more flustered. "No, that won't be necessary."

"My lords, do you need any services?" The other two maidens also knelt by the pool, gently pouring fine wine for Cedrick and Balder.

"No need, you may all leave." Balder waved them off quickly, aware that his companions were as romantic as anvils.

"We're just outside the door. Should you need anything, you can pull this bell's rope. The owner has specifically instructed that any request shall be met," the young maids said, their hips swaying as they retreated.

The maid beside Alavin bashfully whispered, "I am quite clean, sir."

Alavin couldn't help but laugh and gave Balder a look. Was this place offering some kind of special service?

"It's business, my friend, just how things are. Services are available, whether you partake is up to you. Come now, let's drink and forget the rest," Balder, his rotund figure nearly floating in the pool, said. The steam was misty, and the fragrance delightful. Undisturbed, they stretched out their limbs, enjoying a comfortable soak.

Alavin leaned against the pool's edge, inhaling the intoxicating scent of flowers in the air, sipping wine from a tray floating on the water, and feeling his whole body relax. It was truly a pleasure. The spring water was specially treated, and the wine was medicinal, refreshing, and healing.

"What's the story behind the family of Doramon?" Alavin mused, his eyes half-closed in enjoyment.

Balder, patting his plump belly, creating ripples of energy, said, "The ancient founder of the family of Doramon was once a great figure known throughout the Royal Realm, but he lived peacefully, keeping to himself, and fond of making friends. Before he passed, he established the Warriors' Vale in the Northlands, cementing the status of the Doramon family. The family has never declined, producing many remarkable individuals over the generations, all quite discreet. They traveled far and wide and made friends. The foothold of the family of Doramon in the Northlands is also due to their excellent relations with the Eight Orders. They have close ties with every organization. With the backing of the Eight Orders, who would dare to provoke them in the Northlands?"

"He gifted me a set of Master Combat Magic, and I must say, it's quite powerful." Alavin had already perused it. It was more than good-it was like magical armor, with astonishingly lethal power that set his heart ablaze.

"They always give gifts to the Top 5 Protégés each year; they're never stingy. Think about it, the Top 5 Protégés are all brimming with potential. Giving a gift is like making a friend. It's all benefit and no harm." "What are your plans upon returning to Cobalt Strike?" Cedrick asked, savoring the fine wine.

"First, I need to resolve the issue with Azure Mountain."

"That will be troublesome."

"Indeed, some won't let me succeed easily. We'll have to take it step by step," Alavin said, taking this rare chance to relax, every pore in his body opening, feeling thoroughly at ease.