The Legendary Mage (Alavin)

Chapter 279

The ancient underwater realm of Atlantis, though now shattered and swallowed by the vast ocean depths, continued to send ripples across the land. Many who had just received the news were filled with regret, including other Commanders of the Eight Orders and three of the Five Lords, who lamented missing a rare opportunity. Merchants and noble houses from the Northlands began gathering funds to acquire these relics of the bygone kingdom, offering high prices to mercenaries willing to part with them. Meanwhile, powerful individuals gradually made their way to Watchful Shore, venturing into the deep in hopes of uncovering forgotten treasures.

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The Grand Elder had sat alone atop the mountain for two days and two nights, meticulously unraveling the events. All the treasures of Atlantis, along with its potential secrets, were supposed to be his. He had waited over eight years for this and would not let it end in obscurity.

"The Commander! Botanic Haven Elder! They must be the instigators!”

They had likely struck a deal with the Chained Spirit. Otherwise, why hadn't they been in a hurry to search for it after it vanished for so long? They seemed unconcerned, indicating they knew where the Chained Spirit was and that it wouldn't threaten Cobalt Strike for the time being. Moreover, a few days before the incident, the Commander had already arranged for people to watch over Watchful Shore, another piece of evidence.

If they had indeed collaborated, then the entire event made sense. It was the Commander who had unlocked Atlantis, who had seized the mystical heritage of the kings.

"Grand Elder!" Three Elders approached him in the dead of night, bowing respectfully.

"I need you to do something." The Grand Elder, after two days and nights of thought, had made his final decision.

"Speak, Grand Elder."

"Split up and take action. Elder Juran, go to Amber Valley and contact the leader of the valley, Tobin. Elder Laroy, head to Lord Viperbane, contact Neasilis first, then through him reach Lord Viperbane. Elder Connas, stay within the Organization and contact all Elders who have joined us."

The three Elders were visibly startled and glanced at each other in surprise and doubt at the Grand Elder's command. "Grand Elder, are you suggesting..."

"It's time for a reckoning." The Grand Elder had hoped to gain the mystical heritage or secret treasures of the ancient kings to increase his power and usurp the Commander. But now, he could wait no longer. If the Commander had indeed acquired the mystical heritage or treasures, it would be the Commander who would surge in strength, and the Grand Elder would never have a chance to replace him. He had to strike first and seize the inheritance.

The three Elders exchanged glances and, drawing a deep breath, knelt on one knee. "We swear to follow you to the death!"

"Speak freely in negotiations. If they can name the right price, we will accept it."

Elder Juran nodded. "I have a rapport with the leader of Amber Valley. They will dare any deed for the right price."

Elder Connas also nodded. "Leave the Organization to me. I will avoid the Commander and keep this hidden from the uninvolved."

Elder Laroy hesitated, "With our combined strength and Amber Valley's support, we should be able to repel the Commander. Is there really a need to involve Lord Viperbane?"

"I want Cobalt Strike intact, not in ruins." If the Grand Elder was to act, he would do so thoroughly and cleanly, with all those marked for death meeting their end and all matters settled.

"What about the other Organizations?"

"The balance of power among the Eight Orders and the Five Lords has long been due for change. It starts with Cobalt Strike."

Elder Connas suggested, "Lord Viperbane has long been eager to ally with us, but the Commander is too stubborn to bend. If we reach out, Lord Viperbane will be enthusiastic. I propose we offer a sincere gesture."

Elder Laroy asked, "What gesture?"

"They've been here before, haven't they? A marriage alliance!"

The Grand Elder nodded, "Elder Connas makes a good point. We'll betroth Celesse to Marak. If Celesse isn't enough, we can consider Mariela and Liyana, but only after the deed is done."

"Hamund won't agree," one Elder remarked.

Elder Connas scoffed, "Then we'll deal with him, too. With Amber Valley and Lord Viperbane at our side, we'll have more than enough to annihilate Cobalt Strike."