The day after Alavin's breakthrough, he was meditating and refining, savoring the wondrous transformation that came with his newfound realm. Suddenly, a flicker at his brow signaled a presence in the room. Opening his eyes, he saw her. “Celesse?”
Amidst the hazy glow stood a striking maiden. It was a scene of ethereal beauty, her form and the environment so enchanting that it took one’s breath away.
“Advanced Mage Stage II. I recall it’s only been a few months since I left, or has it been years?” Celesse’s gentle laughter echoed as she stepped into the Starlight Dais, her gown flowing elegantly, and her stature tall and slender. She radiated a beauty that was both innocent and dazzling.
"Six months to the day," Alavin replied, rising with surprise and delight. It was indeed Celesse. "When did you return?"
"Just today. I heard you were at the Sanctum of Mystical Scrolls and came to see you." Though Celesse was a Protégé nurtured by the Organization, she possessed an innate nobility and grace. Usually distant and proud, her frosty demeanor kept others at bay, exerting an overwhelming presence, yet she revealed her ethereal beauty and a tender smile only in Alavin's company.
"Finished so soon? I thought you'd traverse the Northlands and undergo trials for three to five years."
"A secret order from the Commander summoned my mentor back. There must be something special afoot."
Had the Commander called them back? Alavin found it odd but didn't dwell on it. "How long will you stay?"
"That depends. My mentor has gone to see the Commander."
"Have you reached Advanced Mage Stage III?" Alavin realized he could no longer gauge Celesse's strength.
"I achieved the breakthrough just before returning, but it's not yet stable. Tell me about you. I only heard about your exploits upon my return." Celesse had been in arduous training within some Sacred Territory, almost cut off from the world, only catching wind of Alavin's deeds on her journey back. She had imagined he would stay safely within Cobalt Strike, but instead, he had caused quite a stir. In just half a year, his name had resounded throughout the Northlands.
Him returning to the Organization sparked even greater buzz. Alavin had recently vanquished Semar and subdued Roald and other Golden Protégés, and his fame skyrocketed, becoming the talk of the Organization.
Celesse had always believed in Alavin's bright future, yet she never expected it to arrive so swiftly and intensely.
"Come, sit and chat," Alavin said, crossing his legs and settling down; his mood lifted.
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