The Legendary Mage (Alavin) novel Chapter 81

Cedrick's sudden actions brought a hush over the Arena. He was known to be fiercely independent, always acting on his own whims, and recognized as one of the most individualistic and proud members of the Cobalt Strike guild. Yet he had never been known to take a stand for anyone, as if he held no one in high regard. Today was an unprecedented first.

"Cedrick, you best not meddle in this affair!" A handsome young man stepped forward from the group of a hundred.

Adirich, an Elite Protégé, was one of the thirty candidates in The Clash of the Eight Orders this year.

"The mess you're in doesn't warrant my intervention. I'm just warning you, your actions are sickening." Cedrick sheathed his sword, his words sharp and unapologetic.

Adirich glared at Cedrick with cold eyes, and his fists were enshrouded in a dark aura. But after a standoff, he reined in his power and called his fellow male and female Protégés back. There was no need to make an enemy of Cedrick now; the forest would offer plenty of opportunities.

"We'll see about that, hmph," the other people sneered before retreating back into their ranks.

Cedrick glanced back at Alavin. "Care to join forces with me?"

His offer once again surprised the nearby participants. What stroke of fortune did Alavin have to pique Cedrick's interest? If Cedrick guarded him throughout the hunt, Adirich and the others would find it difficult to make their move.

Alavin was puzzled why Cedrick would help him, but he diplomatically declined the invitation, "I'm beset with troubles; best not to involve you."

"Are you sure?" Cedrick pressed.

"Quite sure," Alavin smiled and nodded. He had to get back to Azure Mountain and couldn't let others know.

"Watch yourself then," Cedrick said, not pressing further, and walked away with his greatsword on his back.

"There you go, wasting a fine opportunity," someone lamented, shaking their head. Cedrick rarely offered help, and yet it wasn't appreciated.

Soon after, the Protégés participating in the venture had all arrived, numbering over nine hundred, and they swarmed the Arena.

Among them were over a dozen Elite Protégés, like Cedrick and Mariela, who stood out in the crowd and commanded the awe and admiration of many.