The Legendary Mage (Alavin)

The Starlit Echoes Commander, stepped forward with a proposal. "With the Hidden Essence and the Skyborne Rivers' Commanders fallen, both orders are in disarray. They might declare their gates closed or fall under the control of the Stellar Precepts. The demise of Lord Viperbane and Lord Skyveil won't be overlooked by other Lords. They will either forge an alliance with the Stellar Precepts or seek aid from the Midlands. For a long time to come, the Northlands will be rife with uncertainty. Should we not consider an alliance of our own?"

Banneth suddenly felt a wave of melancholy. "The alliance of the Eight Orders has shattered, becoming a farce for all the realm to witness. Is it the burden of legacy that was too great, or have the Eight Orders truly lost the essence of their former glory?"

Jarad scoffed lightly. "The Eight Orders' alliance was never meant to endure. It was bound to crumble sooner or later. You were the only one who took it seriously."

"What did you just say?" Banneth's eyes blazed with anger, his ire rising swiftly.

"I am eighteen years your senior. I do not bully the young." Jarad dismissed with a wave of his hand.

The Starlit Echoes Commander quickly intervened to calm the two. "Between our five organizations, there's no need for formal treaties. We stand and fall together, united against the royal courts and the Stellar Precepts."

The Commander of the Floral Enchantress had hoped to remain neutral, but after careful consideration, she decided to join the alliance. After all, the situation had escalated too far, and there was no telling how the Midlands would deal with the Northlands. Should they send more formidable champions, the Northlands would be thrown into chaos once again. It was unlikely that the Floral Enchantress could remain untouched by these events.

After much deliberation, Bloodlore, the Earthbound Spirits, the Floral Enchantress, Starlit Echoes, and Cobalt Strike - along with the formidable power of Stormcast - formed a new alliance.

Having settled the details, dawn was breaking as the Earthbound Spirits' Commander stood up to leave. "It's about time I prepared to depart.”

"Commander Banneth, I am eternally grateful for your assistance," Alavin offered his thanks once more.

Banneth smiled, pleased with the young man's good nature and gratitude. "Think nothing of it. Visit the Earthbound Spirits when you have a chance and spar with Orland and the others. Who knows, if I'm feeling generous, I might gift you a couple of powerful Combat Magic spells, ha!"

The patriarch of the Iron family also rose to leave. "We should be on our way too. We're moving the Iron family's shrine here. Once the affairs of the Northlands are settled, you should venture out. The world beyond the Northlands is wondrous, and with your talent, you're bound to carve out a wider destiny."

Alavin escorted the Iron family procession to the city gates. They waved farewell and ventured into the wilderness, carrying their dark blades.

Cedrick did not linger either. He left with his family, determined to seek his own Energy in the lands beyond the Northlands, to find greater strength, and perhaps one day surpass Alavin.

The Commanders of Starlit Echoes and the Floral Enchantress also rose into the sky, vanishing amidst the clouds.

"Everyone's gone. It's my turn to

depart," Jarad said, hands behind his

back, looking at Alavin with a light chuckle. "I've done you a great service. How will you repay me?"

"I will..."

Jarad waved him off, interrupting. "Treat my granddaughter well. Your happiness with her is the reward I seek."

"Ah?"

"Engagement, it's settled then. I'm

off. No need for farewells." Jarad left no room for argument, soaring into the sky with three Elders, who cast approving glances at Alavin before disappearing.

Alavin managed an awkward smile.

Helna, standing nearby, beamed with joy and hurried back to the city to discuss the wedding arrangements with Eyla.

"I, too, should return," Commander Kashann sighed softly, opening his mouth but finding himself at a loss for words Alavin no longer needed Cobalt Strike. It was Cobalt Strike that needed Alavin to maintain its prestige. He felt a complex mix of emotions.

"Commander, I remember our agreement. For five years, I remain Cobalt Strike's Protégé."

"Visit us when you can," Commander Kashann nodded, saying no more.