The Legendary Mage novel Chapter 117

"If you secure a spot for me, I'll consider you a friend."

Balder spoke with a gentle tone, "The Eight Orders of the Northlands hold The Clash of Eight Orders in high regard; they always bring their most skilled Protégés to the tournament. Moreover, casualties are a common occurrence during the competition. Alavin, it's not that I'm unwilling to help, but your current level..."

"I am now at Novice Mage Stage VII. Give me another month and a half, and I'll do everything within my power to reach Stage VIII."

"Stage VII?" Balder was taken aback.

Alavin summoned lightning, elevating his presence to its peak. "Stage VII, already at the pinnacle."

Balder's gaze shifted again, twinkling with recognition. If he remembered correctly, it had been merely half a year since Alavin advanced to Novice Mage, and now he had already reached Stage VII? As one's level increased, progress typically slowed, especially the leap from Stage VI to Stage VII, which was a significant hurdle. Yet, Alavin had been at Stage V just a month and a half ago.

"How did you manage this?" Balder knew of Alavin's talent and his fierce determination, but to surge to Stage VII in half a year seemed almost unnatural.

"I will advance to Stage VIII in a month and a half. Help me secure a spot in The Clash of Eight Orders."

Balder quickly regained his composure, not rushing to answer. Alavin's talent and rapid growth truly astonished him. However, Balder didn't have the influence to vie for a spot in the tea gathering. After all, the Mollen family wasn't powerful enough to allow Cobalt Strike to bring a 'weakling' to The Clash of Eight Orders and face embarrassment.

Alavin didn't pressure Balder and waited for his decision.

After a long hesitation and a light chuckle, Balder said, "I'd truly like to help you, but... you might not understand The Clash of Eight Orders. It's where the strongest of the new generation of the Eight Orders come to spar, almost exclusively Stage IX prodigies, and some even as exceptional as Celesse. It's not that I doubt your strength, but..."

"I'm not going for the experience of The Clash of Eight Orders. I'm going to secure a spot and leverage it for my standing in Cobalt Strike." Alavin wasn't fighting for himself; he was fighting for the 200,000 people of Stormcast. He hadn't had the strength to compete before, but now that he did, he was determined to fight for it.

Balder was sharp and grasped the gist of Alavin's intentions. "May I be so bold as to ask if you... hate Cobalt Strike?"

"I am not a rabid dog; I don't bite without cause."