Over the years, each cohort of Top 5 Protégés generally had a bright future—barring a few untimely deaths, most grew to become Elders in their Organization or ventured beyond the Northlands, towards the Capital, the Kingdoms, to a broader world, carving out their own legacies. Being a part of this and witnessing it was an anticipation in its own right.
"Six Advanced Mages, four Novice Mages—it's quite promising."
"Alavin won't have a chance to compete. With only three left in the Novice Mage category, how will the competition proceed?"
"Haven't the Commanders made a decision? Will they let the three battle it out, or what?"
"By the rules, there are three spots for Advanced Mages and two for Novice Mages among the top five. Who will be chosen this time? Cedrick and the other two are all strong; it's a close match."
"I actually quite wish Alavin would take the stage once more."
"Alavin might be a bit out of his league, considering his current level—it's a stroke of luck that he made it into the top ten. I doubt he's ready to stand against the likes of Cedrick; stepping into the arena is likely to end in defeat."
"Don't worry about it. The Commanders will have a plan in place. We just need to wait and see."
"The whole city's abuzz with predictions now. I'm quite looking forward to it."
The Cobalt Strike team was the last to arrive at the gathering grounds, where Commander Kashann nodded to the other seven Commanders, all of whom turned their gaze to Alavin in the ranks. Word of Alavin's breakthrough the previous night had spread, and now he'd surely be in today's battle for the top five.
"Alavin? He actually showed up." Some spectators gasped incredulously as they watched the approaching Cobalt Strike team, with Alavin and Cedrick, two of the top ten, leading the way, both looking hale and hearty.
"Eh? Has he healed? Just the day before yesterday, he was carried off half-dead. Has he recovered too quickly?”
“What kind of potion did Cobalt Strike feed him? How has he healed in two days?"
A soft chuckle came from the Bloodlore team. "He's not just healed. He's broken through To a new stage!"
"Novice Mage Stage IX?" The news spread rapidly, causing a stir among the protégés of various organizations. Was this a case of breaking down and then standing taller than before?
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