The Legendary Mage (Alavin)

Chapter 285

"Carlys? What brings you here?" Alavin was both surprised and delighted, realizing it had been a good two or three months since he last saw her.

"Is this a bad time?" Carlys pouted, letting out a huff as she cast a wary glance at Eyla.

Alavin stood up. "Allow me to introduce you to Eyla from the Bloodlore. Eyla, this is my fellow apprentice, Carlys."

"Eyla? What's she doing in your chamber?" Carlys was taken aback, her gaze still filled with hostility. Lately, the talk of the Order had been all about Alavin and then Eyla – one the most unexpected attendee of this year's championship, the other the most fearsome. Carlys never imagined she'd actually meet Eyla in person, much less find her sitting cozily with Alavin. Their demeanor was suggesting more than just friendship.

"She's here as a guest."

"A guest sitting on your bed?" Carlys' anger flared. Had she not come, who knows if the two of them might have ended up with less clothes on.

Eyla giggled sweetly. "Together? I wouldn't mind that."

"You... Alavin, come over here, don't stand so close to her.” Carlys puffed, causing her cheeks to redden with irritation. If Carlys wasn’t aware of how dangerous Eyla could be, she would have loved to grab her by the hair and give her a piece of her mind.

Alavin chuckled and shook his head, walking over to her. "Who escorted you here?"

"I came alone. Aren't you going to explain?"

"Explain what?"

"Explain her!" Carlys was genuinely upset.

Eyla's laughter tinkled. "What's your relation to Alavin? A little sweetheart, perhaps? Does he need to explain to you?"

Her words turned Carlys' face crimson.

Alavin quickly ushered Carlys outside, knowing he himself struggled to handle Eyla, let alone Carlys. "The woods are treacherous of late. How could you dare to come alone?"

Carlys glared at Alavin, huffing after a long moment. "Two girls accompanied me."

"Has something happened?"

"I just came to see how things were. It's been three months since the Commander pardoned the Mallister family, and I hadn't visited yet."

"Is that all?"

"I also came to summon you back."

"Whose command?" NôvelDrama.Org © content.

"The Commander sought me out personally, asking for you to return for a discussion." Carlys' anger began to wane, perhaps realizing she had misunderstood Alavin and Eyla’s situation. She had grown up with Alavin and knew his character well.

"He didn't say what about?"

"Just that you'd find out when you return, and he assured your safety."

Alavin nodded slowly, a hunch forming in his mind. It likely had to do with the Kings' Acceptance. It seemed Mariela had consulted with the Botanic Haven Elder, who in turn had spoken with the Commander. Alavin just didn't know the outcome of Mariela's negotiations or any decisions made.

"Before I left, Mariela had a word with me... She said you could return." Carlys couldn't grasp the full meaning, but she sensed an underlying danger. "Have you stirred up trouble again? I've felt a strange tension in the Order lately."

"What's strange?"

"I can't quite say. It just feels... off."

Alavin joked, "Is it because I left, and you're not used to it?"

Carlys rolled her eyes playfully. "In your dreams."

Sensing the mood lighten, Oda laughed and linked arms with Carlys. "Let's go see Helna. She's been asking after you."

"Alright, I brought some gifts for Helna." As Carlys turned to leave, she couldn't help but whisper a warning to Alavin, "Don't be bewitched by that woman. She's dangerous. Be careful."

Alavin stood in the courtyard, pondering for a moment before glancing toward the window.

There sat Eyla. Her graceful figure and fair legs were on display, and a half-smile played on her lips as she watched Alavin. "The maiden’s jealous, yet you claim there's nothing between you? In this world, there's love at first sight and affection that grows over time. Instant love is passion, but the affection that grows with time is attachment. Of course, if you're not charming or strong enough, no amount of time will foster affection."

"Will you accompany me to Cobalt Strike?"

"Aren't you worried about the maiden's jealousy?"

Alavin spoke plainly, "If you're with me, I can ensure I leave unscathed."

He had to consider all angles, since a careless move could end in death. If Eyla accompanied him, Cobalt Strike would be wary of her status and dare not overstep.

Eyla understood his intentions but didn't rush to answer, merely watching him with a smile.

Alavin waited patiently for her decision.

"I look forward to the day you can confidently face danger without relying on anyone," she said. "And I hope that day isn't too far off."

"Surviving is my goal right now!"

"You're missing my point. You're already outstanding, with potential, strength, and resilience. But something is diminishing these advantages in the eyes of others – your background. If you had a stronger backing, your talents wouldn't be discounted. They'd be amplified."

"I can survive on my own without a background."

"I'm not pressuring you. Take your time to consider." Eyla truly hoped Alavin would join Bloodlore. With Bloodlore behind him, he would be formidable, and no one would dare provoke Alavin without first weighing the consequences of crossing him. With such support, Alavin could live more freely and easily.