Alavin quickly grasped their intent. "Must your actions always be so calculated?"
"From our position, we must consider all aspects. The Grand Elder has, after all, done much for Cobalt Strike."
"How will you support me?" Alavin asked grudgingly, realizing it was unrealistic to expect them to take action themselves.
"That depends on how you fight."
"I’ll think about it. But I still warn you, the Grand Elder is not one to wait for his end idly. Be cautious."
With that, Alavin took his leave from the Botanic Haven Elder and descended the mountain.
Those two sly old foxes were always thinking of every angle. Yet, from the Botanic Haven Elder's words, Alavin sensed a firm resolve to deal with the Grand Elder—a tough decision from his position, revealing a determination even greater than that of the Commander.
Before leaving Botanic Haven, Alavin made his way to the secluded garden where Mariela was deep in meditation. The air in her chamber was frigid; rims of frost lined the windows, and ice crystals hung from every surface. It was exceedingly cold.
"Mariela," he began, "I shall depart on the morrow. Visit me at Stormcast when you have time."
She replied with a cool detachment, "Have you come to terms with him?"
"It is neither ideal nor poor, but the matter is settled."
"You are too brash; You wouldn’t do well to heed the wisdom of the Master and the Commander. Proceed with caution and steadines. It will serve you well."
"Why should I live like an old sage at my age? One should live in a manner befitting one's years."
"A twisted notion."
Alavin chuckled and leaned against the frosty windowsill. "In our Organization, a Protégé who becomes an Advanced Mage usually sets out to gain experience. Will you venture forth?"
"Should Botanic Haven need me not, I shall take my leave for a time."
"Where will you go?"
"Do you find it so intriguing?"
"Merely curious."
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