The Legendary Mage (Alavin)
Chapter 79

The events that transpired in the Azure Mountain only strengthened Alavin's resolve to return home.

Carlys pleaded with him for two days, but eventually, with a heavy heart, conceded. After repeatedly reminding Alavin to be cautious, Carlys handed him a detailed map.

Two days later, the roster for this year's second hunting expedition was officially announced. At the very bottom of the list, the last name was unmistakably Alavin.

To the discerning eye, it was clear that this was the work of Galos' crew. Otherwise, with Alavin's strength as a Stage V Novice Mage, and his status as both a Freshman Protégé and a servant, he would've never qualified to participate.

The situation being what it was, one could only pity Alavin. He had made the grave mistake of not only defeating Galos but also provoking him. Galos held significant influence within Cobalt Strike, and he had many brothers-in-arms within the order. Now, by forcibly dragging Alavin into the hunting fray, they aimed to make him the prime quarry.

The day after the hunting slots were announced, Alavin arrived at the Fifth Arena, the gathering place for the hunting expedition.

Hundreds of Protégés were already present at the Arena, mostly in their twenties, and all at least Level VI Novice Mages, with some as high as Level IX.

Some Protégés, having participated many times, were calm and composed. Others, first-timers, were nervously seeking advice from the veterans.

Though the hunting expeditions were fraught with danger, they also presented opportunities. One could gather precious Elixir Herbs or Elixir Fruits in the deep forests, capture young Magi-Beasts, or stumble upon some unique treasure. Compared to the regimented training within Cobalt Strike, many ambitious and spirited Protégés preferred to join the hunting expeditions in search of fortune.

Each expedition attracted about a thousand participants - a grand scale indeed.

Many Protégés even formed permanent squads that regularly joined the expeditions and shared treasures equally.

In the square, first-time Protégés either huddled together or sought to join renowned elite squads. Some groups were recruiting companions to bolster their strength.

As soon as Alavin entered the Arena, a few approached to recruit him.

"Brother, how many hunts have you joined? Interested in joining our squad?"

"Friend, we're a newly-formed team in need of sturdy Protégés like you. What do you say?"

"What level of Novice Mage are you? Would you consider... Wait... you look familiar."

"Are you Alavin?" someone recognized him.

"Yes," Alavin barely spoke when seven or eight people turned and scattered, leaving him behind.

Others who were about to approach him also dispersed. To them, Alavin had the skill and the spirit but was a magnet for trouble, likely to be ganged up on from day one. They were there for adventure, not a death wish; the less trouble, the better.

Alavin was indifferent; he had no intention of joining any squad.

The Arena buzzed with excitement and fervor. Groups gathered, discussing the upcoming expedition. Some were eager to dive into the madness, others encouraged each other to seek magical treasures, and some squads planned to cooperate to hunt down powerful Magi-Beasts.

But in the crowd, Alavin spotted some unusual figures.

Elite Protégé, Nikulas!

Elite Protégé, Cedrick!

Elite Protégé, Brunn!

Even the seldom-seen Elite Protégé of Botanic Haven, Mariela!

"Why are they here? Are they also joining the hunt?" Alavin wondered. These individuals did not lack Elixir Herbs or training opportunities. Then it dawned on him - were they preparing for The Clash of Eight Orders? Were these candidates using the perilous forest environment to challenge their limits, experience crises, and enhance their combat prowess?

As Alavin noticed them, they saw him, too.

"Brunn, that's Alavin," a female Protégée alerted Brunn.

Brunn slowly turned, his gaze piercing and expressionless. His formidable presence was felt even from afar.

Alavin met Brunn's gaze unflinchingly. Over the years, he had observed Brunn's training and had managed to figure out the first three segments of the Goliath Force technique, which had allowed him to advance as a Novice Mage.

Brunn locked eyes with him for a moment before approaching Alavin. He moved with the grace of a prowling beast, his eyes sharp and his attire casual, but his body was all muscle, exuding strength without bulkiness, perfectly proportioned and strikingly handsome.

As an Elite Protégé who had mastered the Goliath Force, Brunn's explosive power was renowned throughout Cobalt Strike, having made a name for himself over the past few years.

With his status, it was likely he'd go on to learn the Master Combat Magic, Gigas Grasp. His future was boundless.

"Is Brunn heading towards Alavin?"

"Is he going to challenge him to a duel?"

"Is that Alavin? First time seeing him."

"Whoa! Is Alavin going to face Brunn? I've been looking forward to this."

"I've always been curious about Brunn's reaction to knowing Alavin has been practicing the Goliath Force. Heh, the show's starting."

Nikolas, Myke, and other direct Protégés turned their attention to the scene, watching closely. Brunn was a powerful Novice Mage of Stage VIII, known for his fierce and robust style, making him an opponent few wished to engage in combat.