The Legendary Mage (Alavin)
Chapter 54

"People express remorse in different ways. If not for the bonds of brotherhood, you might not have even seen a head," Neasilis's voice was low, and his words were veiled behind a gentle chuckle. "You..." All the Elders stood up.

"Sit down," commanded the Commander with a calm authority. "Neasilis, after the incident a decade ago, you ceased to be a Protégé of Cobalt Strike. Today, I meet with you as Lord Viperbane's envoy, as the guardian of young Lord Marak."

"I come today on behalf of Lord Viperbane as well." Neasilis's fingertip danced across the table surface as he called out to the door. "A guest has arrived, and you fail to offer refreshment? Have you Protégés no sense of decorum?"

The Protégés outside ignored him until the portly Elder cleared his throat softly. Then, a few brought in tea, placing it beside Neasilis and Lord Marak.

Neasilis lifted the cup to his lips, savoring it with closed eyes: "Cobalt Strike's water, it's been nearly twenty years since I've tasted it."

Lord Marak merely touched the cup but did not lift it. He paid no mind to the tense atmosphere in the hall as if it had nothing to do with him. His gaze occasionally drifted outside, where some Protégés of Cobalt Strike stood.

Neasilis spoke unhurriedly, "I am here to extend Lord Viperbane's congratulations. I've heard you've nurtured a prodigy named Celesse. Just sixteen and already an Advanced Mage."

"You're well-informed," remarked a female Elder coldly.

Neasilis put down his cup and looked at the Commander with a light chuckle. "Will Celesse be partaking in The Clash of Eight Orders?"

"What concern is The Clash of Eight Orders of yours, or Lord Viperbane's?"

In the Northlands, Five Lords reigned supreme, and the Eight Orders stood tall. These were the domains held in awe by all, the sacred ground for countless Mages. Cobalt Strike, being one of the Eight Orders of the Northlands, held a prestigious position.

Every two years, the Eight Orders held a tournament where leaders met, and Elders mingled. At these gatherings, Protégés from different organizations sparred and competed. This centuries-old tradition was how they declared their dominance over the Northlands.

Over time, The Clash of Eight Orders had become an important assembly in the Northlands. The sparring between Protégés had taken on special significance, becoming a stage for the Orders to showcase their rising stars. The top five of each gathering not only received prizes but were also granted titles.

Whoever secured a title at The Clash of Eight Orders was sure to become renowned across the Northlands.

At every gathering, the Eight Orders brought their most outstanding Protégés. They strived for the best ranks while also observing the promising Protégés of the other organizations.

The performance of the Protégés indirectly reflected the potential of their organizations, for the birth of a prodigy could undoubtedly influence an organization's future strength.

Neasilis' smile did not wane. "For three consecutive gatherings of The Clash of Eight Orders, none from Cobalt Strike have made the top five, and even few have been in the top ten. Is Cobalt Strike declining? Have you lost the ability to nurture geniuses, or have the other seven Orders grown stronger?"

"You are with Lord Viperbane, yet you still keep tabs on Cobalt Strike, how thoughtful. A few gatherings do not diminish Cobalt Strike's standing."

"It may not harm our standing, but it certainly affects our pride. However, this time, there is hope. With Celesse's talent, reaching the top five should be no issue. I've come on behalf of Lord Viperbane to offer early congratulations."

the Commander and several Elders regarded this with suspicion. Since when did Lord Viperbane care so much about Cobalt Strike to offer early congratulations?

"Lord Viperbane had some misunderstandings with Cobalt Strike in the past, leading to strained relations. This time, he has sent me to mend fences. What say you, brother?"

The Commander did not voice his stance, instead, he pondered Neasilis' true intentions. They had been on good terms in their youth, but since Neasilis left Cobalt Strike twenty years prior to making his own way, his temperament had grown increasingly peculiar, and their relationship had cooled. It was a decade ago that Neasilis joined Lord Viperbane and, to demonstrate his loyalty, did not hesitate to raise his blade against Cobalt Strike.

Over the years, Neasilis grew in power, and his standing among Lord Viperbane's court rose higher and higher until he became one of the Seven Champions, known as Lord Viperbane's trusted right hand and holding a formidable reputation throughout the Northlands. Yet, Neasilis never once returned to Cobalt Strike to admit any wrongdoing, nor did he try to mend the strained relations between Cobalt Strike and Lord Viperbane. And now, out of the blue, he thought of reconciliation? He even brought the young Lord Marak with him.

Neasilis waited calmly for a while before speaking, "The young prince has always held Cobalt Strike in high regard. This being his first visit, could you arrange for someone to guide him around?" The Commander signaled for a Protégé outside to take care of the arrangements.

"We shall meet again later." Marak stood up to bid farewell, subtly exchanging a knowing look with Neasilis, before departing the grand hall.