The Legendary Mage (Alavin)
Chapter 173

Across from their sumptuous chamber lay the grandest of the hot springs in the exclusive guest quarters of Seraphic Springs. A gathering of young lords lounged comfortably in the warm waters, sipping fine wine and feasting on delicacies as they jovially discussed the current martial gathering.

"This year's martial gathering outshines the previous ones by far, especially with Alavin causing quite the stir."

"Indeed, word about Alavin's true identity has already spread throughout Warriors' Vale. Before coming here, he apparently was nothing but a servant."

"That lad is no simpleton; he's got the patience of a saint!"

"The Cobalt Strike Commander must have mixed feelings about Alavin now; he's brought them fame and, at the same time, utter embarrassment."

"I wonder what treatment Alavin will receive back at Cobalt Strike. Will they really take the time to foster his talents?"

"You'd be surprised. It might just not happen!"

"I heard that Bloodlore is interested in him. Their Commander even personally went to extend an invitation."

The young nobles laughed and conversed at leisure while enjoying their Elixir Fruit and wine.

In the deepest part of the hot spring, where steam rose, and fog swirled, a muscular young man leaned back in the warm water, smirking as he hummed to himself, "Alavin's success is but for a moment. He can't strut around for long. Let's not forget whom he has offended - the Grand Elder of Cobalt Strike. That's one ruthless individual! He wouldn't dare leave, because doing so would mean betraying Cobalt Strike and abandoning his twenty thousand townspeople."

"Oh? Lord Marak, do you have more inside information to share with us?"

Raising his glass filled with medicinal wine, the muscular youth swirled it and said, "Although Alavin has gained some fame, he has also shamed Cobalt Strike. Others might let it slide, but Alavin? Heh, with no background, no patron, and his open disdain for the Organization, not to mention his arrogance, Cobalt Strike might not touch him at first. But in time, someone will surely deal with him."

"Lord Marak, what exactly is the grudge between Alavin and Cobalt Strike's Grand Elder?" The lords were quite curious.

"You'll all know when it's time. But for now, let's drop the subject; I'm here to enjoy a bath before I head back tonight."

"Won't you stay a few more days, Lord Marak? Rest assured, none from the Eight Orders will know you're in Warriors' Vale. And even if they did, what could they do? They wouldn't dare lay a finger on you." "I've been away for half a month; it's time I returned."

Marak had secretly arrived in Warriors' Vale even before the martial gathering began.

The Clash of Eight Orders was a grand internal affair of the Eight Orders of the Northlands, never allowing the Five Lords to participate. At every gathering, the Five Lords deliberately avoided any involvement, except for sending the necessary spies to blend in. They avoided sending anyone of importance, for fear of silent retribution if discovered.

Marak had come incognito, using Lord Viperbane's connections within Warriors' Vale. He took a risk to observe Celesse fighting, eagerly anticipating the performance of his future bride and witnessing the legendary figures among the current generation of the Eight Orders Protégés. Unfortunately, Celesse had not shown, seemingly having left early for her own trials.

To his surprise, the brash servant Alavin stood out at The Clash of Eight Orders, incredibly making it into the top five.

"Alavin... Alavin..." Marak muttered to himself, chuckling silently.

"What has amused you, Lord Marak?"

"Who has made the biggest splash at this championship?"

"Alavin, of course. His name is on everyone's lips across the city."

"A mere servant overshadowing all the prodigies of the Eight Orders, isn't that amusing?"

"While that may be true, he's earned the respect of the Eight Orders Protégés. If he continues to grow, his name will surely be known throughout the Northlands." "Don't worry. He won't live to see that day."

The young lords exchanged glances, noting Marak's disdain for Alavin.

"Enough about him. Since you're leaving tonight, why not give you a parting gift?" A burly young man grinned mischievously.

"Lord Marak, are you interested?" The other lords smiled knowingly.

Marak set down his glass. "Very well, I haven't fully sampled the delights of Warriors' Vale during my stay."