The Legendary Mage (Alavin) novel Chapter 122

Today, the square was bustling with a throng of thousands, as numerous Protégés gathered to bid farewell to their 'heroes.'

At the forefront stood four esteemed Golden Protégés, Goldgrace Roald, Phantom Blaze Felis, Snow Cloak Semar, and Mirafe Abyss Admus.

These were the paragons of the new generation, not just in might but in talent and the aura of the strong, their fame echoed throughout Cobalt Strike for years on end.

Trailing behind them were Cedrick, Mariela, Adirich, Myke, Nikulas, and Gwenda—six of the mightiest newcomers, all Elite Protégés, with formidable comprehensive strengths. They were all ready to represent Cobalt Strike in the grand tournament, The Clash of Eight Orders.

Cedrick and Mariela, their renown and prowess stood on par with the Golden Protégés!

None questioned the composition of this assembly.

Five Elders, accompanied by over thirty middle-aged Protégés, arrived at the arena; they, too, would partake in The Clash of Eight Orders, accompanying the Commander to meet the high echelons of other Organizations.

"Well met, Elders!" Roald and the others nodded their greetings.

"Ye all have a fine spirit about ye," the Elders responded with chuckles, stepping forward to discuss the journey with the middle-aged Protégés.

"Where's the Commander, eh?" Nikulas grumbled. His ugly visage was at odds with the dashing Myke, yet strangely in good rapport.

"Likely tending to Organization matters," Myke replied quietly, standing amidst the ranks. He was ill at ease with the thousands of Protégés watching him.

With a creak of his neck, Nikulas voiced his impatience, "I can hardly wait! The Organization has high hopes for us; let's not be ousted as soon as we step on stage."

"We should hold our own for a few bouts, but I fear some might be dead weight." Myke's words floated lightly, but enough to spread among their squad.

Adirich, basking in the adoration of the Protégés, darkened at these words. "Who are you referring to, Myke?"

"Just a caution to all, no need for anyone to take offense," Myke retorted, ever at odds with Adirich and unimpressed by his strength.

Adirich sneered, "Of all the Elite Protégés, you're the least qualified, yet here you are, boasting."

Gwenda, stepping beside Adirich with a smirk, added, "We're not just here to compete, but to uphold the image of Cobalt Strike. And you, why must you join and let other Organizations scoff at us?"

Gwenda, a gifted and powerful granddaughter of an Elder from Cobalt Strike, was close to Adirich.

Nikulas' expression chilled. "Are you quite finished?"

Cedrick, Mariela, and the others remained impassive, as if deaf to the bickering. This team was far from the harmony the Protégés envisioned. An Elder at the front, unable to bear their squabbling, coughed loudly in disapproval.