The Legendary Mage (Alavin)

Celesse, however, paid little heed to his courtesy and did not even glance his way as she walked past him to stand beside Alavin.

Carlys winked slyly. "Master Alavin, good tidings await."

Celesse stood openly by Alavin's side, facing Galos. "In one month, here in the arena, and three sprigs of Pearlwort at stake, I shall preside over your bout with justice."

The crowd was abuzz, incredulous at Celesse's declaration, their eyes darting between her and Alavin.

The Cobalt Strike was well aware of Celesse's favor toward Alavin. Yet, her public support in such a manner was astonishing, especially as she solidified her position as the preeminent Golden Protégé. Shock and envy mingled in their hearts.

Yet one thing was certain, the upcoming martial contest would be spectacular. The seldom-seen Celesse would be officiating a match personally for the first time, a historic event that would draw countless apprentices as spectators.

Some, however, were puzzled. Was Celesse bolstering Alavin, or dooming him? Wasn't she pressuring Alavin?

Galos looked intensly at Alavin and Celesse, his smile unwavering. "With Lady Celesse presiding, the contest will surely be magnificent. I vow to deliver a perfect duel for all to witness."

Between their words, a veneer of politeness thinly veiled the harshness within. A Novice Mage of Stage VII exerting full effort was not something a mere Stage III Protégé could withstand. Galos was no common mercenary or solitary practitioner, nor just any ordinary apprentice; he was an Elite Protégé, a chosen pupil of the Grand Elder of the Cobalt Strike.

After Alavin and his companions departed, many Protégés gathered at the steps, gazing longingly at the backs of Alavin and Celesse. They all envied the young man's good fortune to be favored by Celesse. Throughout the realms of Cobalt Strike, Alavin was likely the only male Protégé who could approach Celesse so closely. Yet, within their envy lay pity, for his status as a servant limited everything for him. "Has the Commander made a decision?" Alavin hadn't expected Celesse to seek him out.

In a soft voice, Celesse replied, "Your status as a servant shall remain, but you shall be granted a chance to enter the Sanctum of Mystical Scrolls." Alavin fell silent for a moment before slowly nodding, "As expected. The Commander would not risk displeasing the Grand Elder on my account."

"The Commander met privately with my mentor this morning. He personally conveyed the message that no one will lift your servitude in the near term. It's easy to pardon a servant; any Elder has that power. But you were apprehended by the express command of the Grand Elder, and there's the matter of Stormcast; it complicates things. No one, including the Commander, will risk offending the Grand Elder over you."

Alavin fell silent again. "Truthfully, my status as a servant isn't my concern. It's the Grand Elder's stance towards Stormcast that I care about."

Celesse knew Alavin was troubled, not because she couldn't free him from servitude, but because of the Grand Elder's unwavering attitude towards him and Stormcast. This meant Alavin had a long path ahead if he hoped to save his hometown.

Carlys consoled him, "The Commander's special permission for you to enter the Sanctum of Mystical Scrolls is an honor and fulfills one of your wishes. Cheer up."

Celesse added, "The Commander also said something to my master which I believe was meant for you to hear."

"What was it?" Alavin asked, calming himself as there was no use in distress over the inevitable.

"You are not yet worthy to have him intervene in the Stormcast affair." Celesse paused before continuing softly. "The words may sound harsh, but they carry an expectation and encouragement. Essentially, he's saying to prove your worth, you must give him a reason to want to lift your servitude. If you can impress more people, he will seriously consider it."

Carlys, linking her arm with Alavin's and tilting her head playfully, said, "Celesse and I both believe in you, so smile."

Alavin couldn't help but smile in response. "Don't worry about me. I will thrive."