The Legendary Mage (Alavin)
Chapter 51

Alavin eyed him with a hint of suspicion, "Why tell me this?"

Balder's plump, fair hands patted Alavin's arm reassuringly. His smile was comical and wide. "Just looking to make a friend, that's all."

"I appreciate the gesture." Alavin returned the pat, finding Balder's arm surprisingly firm.

"Don't go just yet, let's chat a bit more." Balder blocked Alavin's path, nodding towards a nearby copse of trees. "Let's talk in there. I swear on my family's honor, it's nothing untoward."

"Honor among merchants? Does your family even know what that is?"

"Now, now, that's a bit harsh. In trade, trust is everything. Come on, let's walk..." Balder firmly drew Alavin into the secluded depths of the neighboring woods.

His reputation in Cobalt Strike was decent; known as a wolf in sheep's clothing, at least he wasn't one to stab you in the back. Whenever he crossed paths with Alavin, he always greeted him with a nod and a beaming smile from afar.

"Alavin, you've had a tough eight years, persevering from the age of seven, never bowing to anyone, constantly fighting against dark forces, and carving out a name for yourself with your own fists. In the Novice Mage circles, you've caused quite the stir... Ah, wait, don't go, come on..."

Alavin looked at him, exasperated. "What do you want?"

"Well... ahem, it's a bit embarrassing to say."

"If you're embarrassed, then maybe it's best left unsaid. Farewell."

"Wait, wait! Alright, I'll say it."

"I'm listening."

"I admire you, I believe in you, I appreciate you, and I want to invest in you!" Balder stood up straight, his body jiggling like a giant water balloon struck by a mallet, the ripples still visible. "Invest in me?" Alavin was puzzled.

"Yes, I want to invest in you." Balder looked serious, which was somewhat amusing given his jolly appearance.

In recent years, the Mollen family had started investing in Mages, seeking out young individuals from all corners of the realm who were born into poverty yet possessed extraordinary gifts. They would sign loyalty contracts with these individuals, providing them with ample resources to grow stronger and offering the backing of a powerful family. When these young Mages reached a certain level of prowess, they would join the Mollen family as guards or retainers, serving for years or even a lifetime.

This was a transformational strategy for the Mollen family, born out of necessity as their trade empire expanded, attracting more attention and necessitating the defense of their wealth. Initially, the Mollen family hired renowned and powerful individuals for protection, but their loyalty was often questionable. Thus, they adapted the successful model of investing in ore mines to investing in Mages.

They handpicked young, exceptional Mages from across the land, bestowed favors upon them, and closely monitored their moral development throughout their growth, eventually offering positions based on overall assessments.

This strategy, implemented over a century ago, had cultivated a legion of fiercely loyal guards for the Mollen family. Tasting success, they increased their investment efforts, by choosing candidates from prestigious institutions, selecting promising children from impoverished areas and using connections and wealth to send these kids to train within renowned organizations.

Balder, not wanting to tread the old family paths, decided to pioneer a new method of investment. He came directly to Cobalt Strike, taking up residence to observe its Protégés before secretly signing agreements and bestowing treasures, positioning them for future service to the Mollen family.

Cobalt Strike turned a blind eye to these dealings, tolerating them as long as they weren't excessive, especially since the Mollen family annually gifted them with a staggering array of magical treasures, even once donating a vast ore mine. Moreover, some Protégés would eventually leave Cobalt Strike to venture into the world, and joining the Mollen family, who had close ties with the order, was preferable to other prospects.

Balder knew his limits; he wouldn't dream of investing in the order's Golden Protégés or their Elite apprentices. Instead, he targeted the Senior Protégés. Young as he was, his eye for talent was sharp, and over the years, he'd nurtured quite a few prospects.

Alavin was considered an 'oddity' within Cobalt Strike, and Balder had been observing him for some time. He had avoided Alavin due to the complications he might bring, but now Alavin was different, having advanced to Novice Mage and gained favor with Celesse, piquing Balder's interest.

Of course, Alavin's relationship with Celesse was key; if Balder could befriend Celesse through Alavin, his family would be most pleased.

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