The Legendary Mage (Alavin) novel Chapter 316

"Did you cause trouble again yesterday?" Mariela asked coolly as she led the way.

"No trouble at all."

"Do you blush when you say that?"

"Some sought trouble with me. I was merely defending myself."

"Did you have to slap them? The commotion has upset many Elders."

"Have those Elders ever been pleased with me? I prefer to act decisively, letting actions speak where words fail."

Eyla giggled delightfully, drawing close to Alavin and giving him a flirtatious wink. Their temperaments matched so well.

"What is your mentor's stance on this?" Alavin inquired, keeping pace with Mariela.

"He will not harm you—that much is certain. As for his exact stance, that will depend on your performance. Let me remind you, he does not share the biases of the other Elders. Be courteous."

"Of course, 'do no harm unless harmed' is my philosophy," Alavin whispered to Eyla. "If I'm captured or killed, spread the word after you leave that the Kings' Acceptance has been detained by Cobalt Strike."

"First to Bloodlore, then to all of the Northlands."

"Agreed!"

"It's settled then."

"Alright."

"If you die, I'll die of heartbreak."

The atmosphere grew heavy with silence atop the mountain; no one spoke, each lost in their thoughts.

Mariela awaited a decision from the Commander and her mentor, for they had not provided her with a definitive answer before Alavin's arrival.

A chill wind swept across the mountain peak, stirring the thick mists, and rustling the hair and garments of those gathered.

Finally, the Botanic Haven Elder spoke, "Congratulations, child. To inherit a legacy spanning millennia is a rare gift, one that may help you reach unprecedented heights in the annals of Cobalt Strike." With a simple statement, he recognized Alavin's claim to the legacy.

Mariela breathed a slight sigh of relief.

"The eight years I spent with Cobalt Strike are the most precious treasure of my life. I will forever hold them dear." Alavin also diplomatically stated his position, though his words might’ve been interpreted differently by different people.

The Botanic Haven Elder nodded slowly, finding Alavin's words ambiguous yet acceptable, neither sycophantic nor spiteful. "Let us now discuss your Shadowbringer."