The Legendary Mage (Alavin)

"How fortuitous to meet you here." Alavin recognized the man as Orland from the Guild of the Earthbound Spirits!

"Haha, it is quite the coincidence! Lady Eyla? You two..." Orland glanced from Alavin to Eyla with a mischievous grin on his face.

"Do we make a good pair?" Eyla asked, leaning affectionately toward Alavin.

"A perfect match! There's no one better suited for each other than you two." Orland laughed, though a hint of wistfulness tinged his voice. Had these two dangerous individuals of the new generation of the Eight Orders really come together? A Shadowlord's Messenger and a Blood Elf.

"Don't get the wrong idea. We're just good friends."

"Hey! A man should take the initiative!" Orland actually admired Alavin. He had wanted to make his acquaintance since the championship and had regretted missing the chance.

From behind Orland, in the clearing, came several robust men. Familiar faces like Nelsor and Ziros appeared. Seeing Alavin, they were happily surprised, but after spotting Eyla, they were somewhat taken aback.

"Have you become an Advanced Mage?" Nelsor gazed at Alavin in astonishment. It had been several months since they last met, and yet Alavin had another breakthrough.

"Just recently managed to break through with a bit of luck," Alavin said with a chuckle.

A group of burly men shook their heads in disbelief. His progress was unparalleled - at the championship, he had just advanced to Stage VIII; during the championship, he reached Stage IX, and now, after a few months, he had become an Advanced Mage! His pace made these self-proclaimed geniuses blush with shame.

Ziros said heartily, "We brothers were all fired up to spar with you, but it looks like we've missed our chance."

After exchanging a few warm words with them, Alavin asked, "What brings you to Cloudveil Woods?"

"The business in Atlantis," they replied. "We just heard about it recently and regret not being able to make it in time. The Commander said Cloudveil Woods will be quite chaotic for a while, so we're here for some trials and perhaps hope to find some treasures. What about you?"

"I'm heading back to Cobalt Strike. Care to visit the Organization?"

Orland replied without hesitation, "Sure! Once we complete our trials, we'll swing by your Organization. Remember to have some ale and feast ready for us, haha."

"Absolutely! I'll be awaiting you all in Cobalt Strike."

"Farewell then!"

"Wait. The royal family has also sent a team from the Blessed Citadel, led by people of Lord Viperbane, to Cloudveil Woods. If you cross paths, be cautious." Alavin warned them. Orland was also one of the top five contenders at the championship, and the current team from the Blessed Citadel was seething with frustration. A run-in with Orland could lead to a challenge. A fair duel was one thing, but there was fear that the Blessed Citadel might not take a loss well and resort to foul play.

"Oh? You've encountered them?" Orland's brows furrowed. The name Blessed Citadel carried weight throughout the Royal Realm.

"They came to Stormcast to challenge me, aiming to take the title of the Shadowlord's Messenger."

"And the outcome?"

"I was fortunate to prevail, but they may not easily accept defeat. Be vigilant if you meet them."

"How strong are they?"

"They are all Inner Protégés of the Blessed Citadel, quite formidable!" Alavin gave a fair assessment. The combined combat magic of the Phoenix siblings was indeed strong, and one could easily find themselves in peril if not careful.

"Thanks for the warning!" Orland and his companions saluted with clasped hands and plunged into the dense forest. The group of more than ten men was robust and imposing. Their presence was wild, like charging gorillas, exuding a thick aura of battle.

Godfred watched them disappear into the woods and said, "Master, are they from the Earthbound Spirits? I've heard that the Earthbound Spirits are tough and not easy to deal with. How come they..." "The Earthbound Spirits are full of straightforward folk. Earn their respect, and they'll treat you warmly. But to those they dislike, they might not even spare a second glance."