The Legendary Mage (Alavin)

A company of fifty riders mounted their Golden Horned Horses, and set off on their journey. Elder Connas rode at the forefront, leading the way to the Azure Mountain. The Protégés of the order, spread out in a broad fan formation, galloping at full speed through the dense forest trails.

Alavin deliberately lingered at the rear. His eyes were vigilant for dangers in the surrounding woods, as well as among the guardian Protégés themselves. He was certain that these fellows harbored ill intentions.

The pace of the group was swift, yet the atmosphere was tense. From start to finish, no one spoke, nor did anyone act out of turn. Adirich did not even look back at Alavin once.

From morning until evening, the company finally stopped to rest for the first time. Their Golden Horned Horses were fleet and spared them much exertion.

"We'll camp here for the night and set off early tomorrow. The road to Azure Mountain is long. There's no need to rush," Elder Connas declared, selecting a safe valley as their campsite for the night. He signaled the group to patrol in shifts, ensuring there were no dangers nearby.

Two Protégés went hunting nearby to prepare the evening meal.

"I'll have a look around," Alavin said, causing the dispersing Protégés to halt and turn their heads towards him. There was a flicker of wariness in their eyes.

"Mariela, do you fancy some fish? I'll catch a few for you," Alavin said, stretching his arms, pretending not to notice the odd behavior of the Protégés.

"Whatever you like," Mariela replied, her attention on surveying the valley.

"Ehem! Ehem!" Elder Connas cleared his throat and waved his hand, signaling. "Check the surroundings, and don't wander too far."

"Alavin, I'll join you," Adirich nodded to Elder Connas and quickly caught up with Alavin.

"Aren't you afraid I'll split you with my sword?" Alavin laughed lightly.

Adirich's eyes twitched. "The Grand Elder decreed that from this day forward, all our grudges are to be annulled. The past is the past, and we could become friends in the future. At least let's not be enemies anymore. What do you say?"

"I was only jesting. Do I bear a grudge against you? It's just a minor disagreement," Alavin walked ahead.

"Right, we are all Protégés of Cobalt Strike. There's no deep-seated hatred here," Adirich said, following with a smile.

As night fell, fires lit up the valley, and the succulent wild game turned on spits over the flames. Their meaty aroma filled the air, and they were glistening with golden juices, incredibly tempting.

The Protégés gathered around the fire, turning the spits and engaging in sporadic conversation, finally lightening the mood.

Alavin and Mariela did not join the group but sat at the furthest part of the valley, roasting a large fish they had caught.

"Did you bring me out here to be your shield?" Mariela whispered, her voice so low only they could hear.

"I apologize for the inconvenience. I'll make it up to you," Alavin offered as he tried a piece of fish and found it to his liking. He tore off another piece and handed it to Mariela. "Have some." Mariela accepted the fish, tasting it gently. Her manners were soft and graceful. "If they truly wish to orchestrate an accident to kill you, my presence might not deter them."

Alavin's gaze pierced through the flames towards the group. "I know."

"The forest is fraught with peril, and a simple mishap could be your end. Even with me there, they could deny their involvement," Mariela continued to caution Alavin. Since leaving the Organization, she had been quietly observing this so-called escort party. At first, she thought Alavin was overcautious since the Grand Elder wouldn't dare harm him so brazenly. But as time passed, Mariela felt these people indeed meant harm.

Was the Grand Elder truly planning to execute Alavin en route and disguise it as an accident? Did the Grand Elder not care about the whispers of the people, the doubts other Organizations would have about 'Alavin's accident?'

"I know."

"If you know, then why bring me along?"

"They will have some reservations and be reluctant to act too directly. That's enough for now."

"Do you have a plan?"

Alavin ate a few more bites of fish before speaking in a low voice, "Take your guess. When do you think they will strike?"

"With the speed of the Golden Horned Horses, we can reach Azure Mountain in four to five days. If I were them, I'd make a move by tomorrow night, or delay it by one more day at the latest.”

"It won't be tonight."

"Right, you can sleep soundly tonight."

"Thank you again for coming out with me. I didn't expect you to really leave the mountain." Alavin handed Mariela another piece of fish and continued to eat heartily. "I just wanted to try my luck; I never thought you'd agree."

"Really want to thank me?"

"Of course, I hold grudges but also remember kindness."

That sounded odd to Mariela, who glanced at him. "If you truly want to thank me, tell me about the Chained Spirit."