The Legendary Mage (Alavin)

On the second day at dawn, Roald, Semar, Admus, and Felis, the four valiant members of the Golden Protégés, all gathered at the 5th Arena, eagerly awaiting Alavin's challenge. Young Protégés awoke early, forgoing their usual training to flock in groups to the 5th Arena. Everyone chattered excitedly, filled with anticipation for the day's showdown. Nikulas, Myke, Adirich, and many other Elite Protégés flowed into the Arena in succession. Even many middle-aged Protégés and Elders made their way to the Arena.

Alavin had caused a stir throughout the city with his performance at The Clash of Eight Orders. His enigmatic swordsmanship, formidable physique, and the eerie power of the Shadowlord's Wrath had all caused a sensation. The Eight Orders had bestowed upon him the title of Shadowlord's Messenger, and his fame had spread wide across the Northlands. Yet most within Cobalt Strike had not witnessed his prowess firsthand and were curious to see just how mighty Alavin's strength truly was. Would the reality live up to the legends that were whispered in awe?

Moreover, public duels between Golden Protégés were a rarity, and the spectacle itself was worth the anticipation, perhaps even offering a chance to glean some experience.

As the sky began to brighten, the 5th Arena was already brimming with people, bustling and buzzing with conversation. Many traveled from all directions to converge upon the Arena.

Such a commotion was rare indeed.

Alavin left his lodgings early, but instead of heading to the Arena, he ventured to Botanic Haven.

"Botanic Haven is sacred ground. You may enter, but she cannot!" a guardian Protégé barred Alavin and Eyla from entering, for Botanic Haven, as the most secret place of Cobalt Strike, could not allow Protégés of external organizations to enter at will.

"Please inform Mariela," Alavin said politely. "She will know if Eyla should be allowed in."

The guardian Protégé looked at Alavin and was about to ascend the mountain when he suddenly asked, "Shouldn't you be at the 5th Arena? What brings you here?"

News of the challenge issued to Alavin by the four Golden Protégés had spread far and wide, and even though Botanic Haven seldom concerned itself with organizational matters, such a significant event had reached its ears.

Alavin smiled and replied, "I'll be there shortly."

Another Protégé piped up with interest. "Are you that confident?"

"Let's just see, shall we?"

After the guardian Protégé informed Mariela, she personally descended the mountain to greet them.

She emerged from the mist-enshrouded woods like a goddess stepping out of an enchanted realm, her purity and sanctity radiating from her. Clad in a snow-white gown with her flowing hair and exquisite beauty, her eyes sparkled like stars, and her lips were red as plum blossoms. Since becoming an Advanced Mage, her aura had grown colder and even purer.

"Do you really need to bring Eyla up the mountain? Are you afraid?" Mariela asked coolly, her veil unable to conceal her otherworldly beauty. Only her icy, ethereal demeanor could counterbalance Eyla's bewitching and seductive allure.

One was frosty and divine; the other was enchanting and sensual. Their contrasting auras clashed, stirring even the hearts of the Botanic Haven Protégés, who dared not openly gaze upon them, instead stealing furtive glances with bowed heads.

"Fear is appropriate. If I weren't afraid, that would be a lie. Your mentor's realm is nearly on par with the Commander's. If either of them wanted me dead, there'd be nowhere to run."

Mariela was speechless. Must he speak so bluntly?

"I must bring Eyla with me, or I shan't go at all."

Eyla snuggled up to Alavin. "Don't worry, I'll protect you."

"Please, my mentor is already waiting for you." Mariela gestured for the guardian Protégé to allow them through and personally led them into the mountain, heading toward the summit.

"Botanic Haven, the purest sanctuary of Cobalt Strike's magic," Eyla observed curiously. Mist drifted about, and ancient trees stood like mighty beasts, their massive roots were bursting from the earth in a tangled array, and branches cascaded down like smaller trees adorned with delicate flowers. The place was ancient and shadowy, the potent Restoration Aether intoxicating.