Chapter 210
Chapter 210
Lucan and his companions were full of zeal, their spirits burning hot. Eight years had passed, and never had they felt such excitement, such relief. They even sang songs, their steps brisk.
The guard was the first to head into the forest to capture some Magi-Monsters. They had set up large pots, stoked the fire, and allowed the townsfolk to feast heartily on stewed meat, to gather their strength for packing and preparing... to go home...
The Mallister folk gathered together, busily sorting through what they could take with them. Their faces were alight with excited smiles.
"Here are the magical ores and treasures plundered from Vandill and his men. Take stock of them." Balder called Alavin over. The ground was piled high with all sorts of bundles, filled with treasures Vandill had gathered, meant to be taken back to Cobalt Strike. The hoard was impressive, with various magical ores, herbs harvested from the forest, and so on.
Alavin flipped through a few bundles. "These are all for you."
"We require no reward," Balder said with a dismissive wave and a smile.
"It is but right. And with these treasures, I entreat you to establish a chapter of the Mollen family within Stormcast," Alavin, now the Lord of the City, declared. His first tasks were to find homes for the city’s folk and to rebuild Stormcast, both of which required a wealth of coin and the support of powerful guilds. The Mollen family was his sole ally, the only ones who could aid the citizens of Stormcast through the harsh winter ahead and assist in reconstructing their homes, ensuring that Stormcast could once again thrive.
"Rest assured, we would have it no other way. Father will send word to Cobalt Strike, using the rebuilding of Stormcast as an opportunity for great commerce, and allow the Mollen family to settle within Cobalt Strike." The Mollen family's aid to Alavin was not just due to his potential but also
because of the value of Stormcast itself. To rebuild an ancient city was not just a business venture but also an opportunity to forge a strong alliance with Alavin. The Mollen family were masters at investing in goodwill. Well, Alavin, they had aided him and his entire city. What reason would he have to forsake the Mollen family in the future?"
"Such great kindness will not be forgotten. I am not one to betray gratitude," Alavin thought warmly. Although this 'friendship' had a transactional nature, it indeed was a great help.
"Keep these items for your guards' training."
"That seems wise." Alavin nodded, looking out over the bustling mining district with a sigh of relief and a smile on his face.
Helna was directing the womenfolk to pack up the household, taking all they could carry.
Oda stood to the side, curiously gazing at the goddess-like Mariela’s stunning beauty, pure aura, and her distant, frosty demeanor. Having lived in Azure Mountain for eight years, Oda had never seen such a transcendent and exquisite woman, and what intrigued her even more was that Alavin had brought back Mariela.
Why would Alavin bring a girl to such an important occasion? Why not Celesse, or Carlys? Was she also a Protégé of Cobalt Strike?
"Oda, what are you daydreaming about? Hurry and pack," Helna called to her.
"Helna, who do you think she is?" Oda whispered, linking arms with Helna.
"Who? Oh, look at me, I've forgotten to play host," Helna said, clapping her hands and walking over with a smile.
"Helna, what are you doing?"
"Playing host, of course."
"But you don’t even know who she is."
"You silly girl, if Alavin has brought a girl all this way, need there be any question?" Helna neatly adjusted her clothes, then stood beside Mariela, looking her up and down with increasing approval. "My dear, might I inquire your name?"
Mariela, cool and composed, nodded politely. "Mariela."
"A lovely name. Are you also a Protégé of Cobalt Strike?" Helna was secretly amazed; such beauty and elegance were rare to behold. Fortune smiled upon her nephew.
"I am a Protégé of Botanic Haven."
Botanic Haven? That meant she hailed from the nobility within Cobalt Strike, a fine background indeed. Helna's fondness grew. "And how long have you known Alavin?" NôvelDrama.Org: owner of this content.
"A few months' acquaintance."
Perfect! Helna's smile deepened. "And your age, my dear?"
Mariela suddenly felt a misunderstanding had occurred and quickly clarified. "I am Alavin’s senior apprentice."
"A senior apprentice, how wonderful, surely you are most kind and caring." Helna took her hand, nodding in satisfaction.
Mariela let out an awkward chuckle, unsure how to explain further.