The Legendary Mage novel Chapter 196

Days gone by. Unwittingly, they were nearing Azure Mountain, yet Alavin seemed to have vanished into thin air, unfindable. They even retraced their steps to no avail.

Azure Mountain

That very night, three hundred Protégés of Cobalt Strike were nearing the mining district. The man in black, Garrat, infiltrated the area first, meeting Vandill in the depths of the estate.

"Alavin, Shadowlord's Messenger?" Vandill couldn't believe his ears. It had not been long since he'd left the ranks of Cobalt Strike, and such inconceivable events were unfolding, utterly baffling. "Has the Commander truly decided to pardon the Mallister family?"

Garrat stood like a shadow in the flickering candlelight. "The Commander has officially decreed it. The writ of pardon is en route as we speak and should arrive by tomorrow."

"Why? Even if he meant to pardon them, why so soon? Is it just for securing a top five rank? Does a mere title carry such weight? Does the Commander intend to take Alavin under his wing as an apprentice?" Vandill was clearly irate.

"I would wager the Commander has struck some sort of bargain with Alavin. It's likely the Mollen family had a hand in it, too."

"Hmph, the Mollen family's reach grows ever further. When the Grand Elder takes power, we'll see to their end. What are the Grand Elder's instructions?"

"The Grand Elder has made his will clear. Before the writ of pardon reaches Azure Mountain, the Mallister clan shall be dealt with—every last one of them. My men are already assembled outside the mining district and are ready to act."

Vandill nodded. "What of Alavin? He poses a threat. How will you handle him?"

"He won't live to see Azure Mountain. And after the Mallisters are disposed of, we'll drive all the miners into the forest to fend for themselves."

Vandill pondered for a moment. "I shall gather the miners now, and in doing so, I'll have my men and Lucan's guards move to the square. The rest is up to you."

"We'll don the guise of bandits and plunder this estate."

"Your time is limited. Ensure it's done cleanly."

Garrat vanished silently into the dark.

Soon after, a somber toll of the bell shattered the night, rousing the sleeping mining district. In their modest quarters, miners opened weary eyes and stumbled outside. Why would the bell toll at this witching hour?

"Assembly!"

"All to the square, everyone!"

"An urgent announcement, young and old, sick and lame—all must gather."