Regarding the matter of the Overlord Descendant, there is breaking news.

Also, it was released by Lostra's media at a specific timing, which might hint at some deeper meaning, but there's no need to pay heed to it. Just let it slide without mention.

Whether it's the Overlord Descendant or Zote, handle it coldly, only discuss awards and honors.

The entire scene gradually fell silent, witnessing the birth of the 2690 Champion's wish.

"In the name of the Second Prince of the Empire, I offer the most sincere praises to each and every warrior. When returning home, spread the spirit of striving, and in life, uphold integrity.

But...

Now the world is in turmoil, and Aran is in a time of transformation. I hope all the heroes can wield the sword alongside me."

Phoenix also stood up.

These are merely ceremonial words. You can return home in glory with the rewards, freely come and go in Aran, but there's always a 'but' to everything.

The organizers had already prepared the top sixteen contestants, and now it's time to ascend to greater heights.

Once you accept the award, in terms of justice, it's not about being a foreigner anymore. You just need to bow in salute. Once you're an official of Aran, you automatically become part of it, and when meeting the Royal Family, you have to kneel.

The main show is always left for last.

This is the time for the Military Department to reshuffle and draw new blood.

After Phoenix spoke, it was Augustus's turn on stage, this beast-like man in military uniform, eyes hidden under the brim of his hat, stood with hands folded behind his back.

In the list just drafted by the Military Committee, the heads of various Military Departments had already discussed and finalized the paths for the other twelve, aside from the top three, but of course, Saleret and Kai Deng were exceptions.

"Louis, are you willing to join Aran's nationality, to contribute to the Royal Court? The Empire's territory is expanding, and we need someone to maintain the Empire's Constitution in various Duchies. I would like to appoint you as Constitutional Soldier Vice Admiral. Do you accept?"

Augustus's tone was hoarse, simply reading by rote.

Constitutional Soldier?

Louis was dumbfounded, meaning controlling the soldiers, the military police's military police, could directly get fat by three hundred pounds from the perks, how could he not be willing?

The organizers had prepared, now once you're an Aran Military Official, you have to swear loyalty and kneel.

It can only mean my knees are still practical.

Without a second thought.

"Willing to serve the Royal Court, through fire and water."

Louis immediately knelt halfway, head bowed, hiding a smile on his face about to break into laughter.

"You will be awarded later. Before taking the position of Vice Admiral, you need to attend Officer School to learn a few things."

There wasn't a hint of comfort on Augustus's face as he continued to call names.

Following along, most people were there seeking a position, starting from Vice Admiral roles.

Marian also being a Constitutional Soldier Vice Admiral, Gray Wolf King Reksey an Army Vice Admiral, Sky Prisoner Daniel a Tax Army Vice Admiral.

There was a small twist when it came to Orphan Maker Ivanovic.

The nice guy act was just an act. Although the Aran Royal Court did put on a grand show, for someone mixed in the streets, nothing worse than death, they're not going to sugarcoat their words with the Military Master.

"I can't get used to land; my skin dries out. But serving the Royal Court is my life's wish, I wish to join the Navy."

Ivanovic has never bowed to anyone his whole life, suddenly being asked to kneel, it must be a good deal, he wants to mix with Sister Kai.

"This proposal will be retained for now. You might need to go to Officer School for evaluation before knowing which military branch suits you. As long as you work towards it, you can succeed."

The list was discussed and drafted by the committee. Rejection would lose face for the Military Department head where one belongs, but individual will must also be respected.

Having mingled in the underworld for so long, Ivanovic was adept, discovering the routines of these dog warlords, hardly touching on backgrounds or criminal records, with a cleaner slate, and being slick and attentive, with a good image, were assigned to Constitutional Soldiers; like Reksey, already set on the railways, no problem with the Army. Daniel, with this notorious name, ended up in the most infamous regiment in Aran, wanted him to do the taxing, which, while a good position, with plenty of benefits, was bound to solicit resentment.

But Augustus this guy was pretty damn scary, even the Orphan Maker found it a bit terrifying, best to take what you can get, can't make it outside.

"As you command."

For the first time, Ivanovic also knelt, movements a bit stiff, but he still overcame, seeing the flowers and gold foil floating in the sky, really damn dark, Aran Royal Court, can't move forward without good allies.

But tonight's twists were not few.

In past Continent Martial Arts Competition, there were also those who didn't appreciate what's good, it's a normal phenomenon; everyone has their own aspirations.

"I like being free, originally came with the aim of winning the championship, but unfortunately, not skilled enough, so I'd rather skip the official position."

The Highway Ranger Bai Xing responded.

Augustus wasn't surprised, just gestured for the financial staff of the organizers to speak.

"On behalf of His Highness the Prince, and the Competition organizers, we acknowledge your performance in the contest. His Highness rewards you with a mansion in the Royal Capital, and various valuable collections such as lots of jewelry have been placed inside the mansion."

As the financial officer said, Bai Xing was a top eight participant and was already a very capable person.

"I'm about to cry."

Bai Xing truly felt the Royal Court was outrageously generous, saying it was a mansion, but actually it was gifted by Phoenix, had to be starting from a small estate. A small estate in the Royal Capital, with valuables placed inside?

He truly bent ninety degrees in a heartfelt bow, incredibly moved.

"The Royal Court will always welcome you. If you change your mind, come to the Imperial Arena. Aside from the annual martial arts competition, we also have monthly tournaments. Someone will always be there to welcome a warrior like you."

Thus spoke the finance officer, feeling a sense of regret. To resist Pedan's unstoppable Magic Energy Industrial Committee and their global investment expansion, Aran also established a counter-department. Bai Xing was one of the names on their list, promising great potential. They could only hope she'd return in a year. Though they said she was always welcome, once the seventeenth session began, they would not wait.

Finally, it was Kai Deng's turn.

But unexpectedly, nothing happened.

There was only mention of recent rampant piracy along the shores of the Narrow Sea and the Beima Duchy, both of which needed heightened protection. Those in the know understood the implications.

It was in line with Kai Deng's wish, appointing her as an admiral.

"None dared to defy."

Kai Deng knelt halfway, a cold smile on her lips.

Finally, it was the main event, and Augustus resumed his seat as Phoenix spoke personally.

"Salret, I am aware of the unjust charges of your past, and today I exonerate you. I offer you the role of admiral; would you accept?"

Phoenix followed the plan given by Cicero. These two had a touch of flair about them.

Salret paused for a moment, glanced at the position of the Eternal Church, and then at Ben, who was not far from Phoenix.

This double-dealing dark elf with a brainless expression of guilt, feigning tearful remorse, made him want to strike him down.

Now was not the time; it was better to agree first. Ben, that sinister figure, had disrupted all plans for the night.

"I am willing."

Salret also knelt halfway to the ground.

"Xiao Long, I will personally confer the honor upon you, making you a member of the Royal Knight Order, appointing you as the Vice Commander of the Royal Knights. What do you think?"

Phoenix, under Cicero's guidance.

The Sword King was the champion of the first martial arts competition, but the situation then was different; people from the Far East could not be given great responsibilities.

Yet Lostra broke the international consensus that the East Sea could not have order, supporting Liszt as the Eastern Sea Warlord, with long-term ambitions to build a trade hub for the Far East and West Continents, an endeavor that could never be allowed, as it would impact global strategy.

With Xiao Long, a political inclination towards the Far East needed to be shown.

Xiao Long's pupils shrunk, having never thought this would happen. He assumed, following past traditions, that people from the Far East would be generously rewarded with empty titles and wealth. The Royal Knight Order was meant to tour various regions on behalf of the royal family to demonstrate grace and power.

Cicero certainly knew what Xiao Long was thinking at this moment, likely worrying about sensitive political topics and taking on infamy.

Predicting that Xiao Long would certainly refuse, it was enough to express a stance first, showing inclination and full hospitality.

"Such a position is of grave importance, yet I am merely a martial artist, insignificant, incapable of fulfilling it."

Xiao Long tactfully declined.

"No need to be hasty in refusing. Like Bai Xing, the Royal Court will always welcome you."

Phoenix waved a large hand, also having financial officers provide rich rewards. In Duguli, the Royal Capital, they bestowed estates and even granted an honorary title of nobility from a plot left by an earl's successor unable to pay inheritance taxes, along with foreign honorary noble status.

Xiao Long's face showed a look of gravity, and he had no choice but to bow in acknowledgment.

Eventually.

"So... warrior of the continent, mightiest hero, Gedre, do you have any wishes?"

Phoenix said plainly.

The continent martial arts competition was held on such a grand scale for this very reason. Countless people came for this: the champion could make a wish. Even though the Emperor was absent this year, the rule was unyielding.

All were eagerly waiting, eyes filled with anticipation.

Gedre clenched his fists.

But...

The Eternal Sect's traditional skill began.

"The Pope has personally decreed a gift for the champion of this year's Continents Martial Arts Competition. Whatever your wish, the Pope will fulfill it for you."

Although he was a High Priest, he cared little for Phoenix, clapping his hands.

Having Qiande bring up the items, the Dragon Corpse was merely the finale, slapping the Emperor in the face, and the treasures worth a fortune needed vehicles to transport ten to twenty boxes.

Salret started panting; Liszt better not have any incidents. He even hoped he wouldn't see that thing in the end.

Immediately.

A special passage of the Eternal Sect, with one after another of rare magic beasts adorned with gold and diamonds, tamed and carrying gifts into the venue.

Salret distinctly saw, on the last silver-backed bear, a large, perfectly rectangular gift box, too large to guess what was inside.

Salret's throat rolled.

He guessed what was inside.

It's... damn, it's here.