The Legendary Mage novel Chapter 211

As the afternoon hustle bustled on, Lucan gathered the two deputy captains and centurions of the guard. "Is everything in place?"

Godfred nodded affirmatively. "Six hundred people are stationed in the Western Quarter. Should Elder Connas approach the mines, we should detect him at the first sign."

They had been tirelessly working since the previous midnight, drenched in sweat, yet far from weary; instead, they were filled with vim and vigor.

"It's been hard work. Tell everyone to take turns resting. There's no need for over-vigilance. Elder Connas has but fifty men, not a significant threat," Lucan said, pleased. A day and a night had passed since the incident, and the spirits of his men were still high. Their mettle was uneroded by the years of hardship or the recent execution of Vandill.

"Where has Lord Alavin gone? We have not yet formally met."

Since the previous night, all had been preoccupied, and Godfred, keen to meet Alavin, had found no opportunity. Before last night, his impression of Alavin was still that of the boy from years past. He never expected their reunion to be amidst such circumstances after so many years. Alavin, now dashing and sharp-eyed, exuded a calm, steely resolve and fearlessness, surprising Godfred greatly.

"He's up in the mountains." Lucan pointed toward the distant high peaks. On the western edge of the mines stood a mountain a thousand meters tall. It was the best vantage point to overlook the entire mining operation.

"Shall we go see him?"

Lucan fell silent for a moment. "Today is Lord Alavin's birthday. After tonight, he'll be sixteen."

Atop the mountain, Alavin stood quietly, gazing upon the lively mine below. Thousands of torches illuminated the mines, as the people celebrated with robust laughter into the night.

Alavin smiled, yet his face was streaked with tears.

“After tonight, I will be sixteen.

“After tonight, Azure Mountain will become a part of history.

“After tonight, I must lead over two hundred thousand back to Stormcast.

“After tonight, I will grow stronger and more steadfast.

“After tonight, I will face more enemies, and I will find more allies.”

Alavin raised his head to the stars, as if he could see his loving parents once again.

“Father, Mother, wherever you are, alive or in the afterlife, pray for me.

“Father, Mother, no matter what happened back then, and whoever was involved, I will uncover the truth and ensure they pay for their debts in blood...