The Heaven Dou Empire's Rewards

Xue Qinghe climbed the steps, with Xiao Yun and the others following close behind.

The moment they entered the grand hall, an invisible pressure washed over them—the aura of imperial authority, the majesty accumulated by an empire over ten thousand years.

A man sat upon the imperial throne.

Xue Ye.

The ruler of the Heaven Dou Empire wore a bright yellow dragon robe and a flat-topped imperial crown. His face was stern and aged.

His gaze swept across everyone below before finally settling on Xiao Yun, a faint glimmer flashing through his eyes.

"Greetings, Your Majesty."

Led by Xue Qinghe, Xiao Yun and the others bowed according to protocol.

Xue Ye raised a hand in a gesture of support. His voice was aged but strong. "Rise."

Everyone rose and stood with their heads lowered.

Xue Ye's gaze passed over Yu Tianheng and the others one by one, and he nodded slightly. "Good. Fine children, all of you. Though I did not attend the All-Continent Advanced Academy Elite Competition in person, I have learned of everything. You have won glory for the Heaven Dou Empire. I am greatly pleased."

After a brief pause, he continued, "Hear my decree—"

The ministers in the hall all lowered their heads at once, while Yu Tianheng and the others bent forward to listen.

"Members of the Imperial Fighting Team—Yu Tianheng, Dugu Yan, Ning Rongrong, Zhu Zhuqing, Xivia, Shenghua, Ye Lingling, Shi Mo, and Shi Mo—are hereby granted the title of Imperial Baron. They shall receive imperial salaries and may either enter the court as officials or remain at the academy for further study, as they choose."

All nine knelt together and kowtowed in gratitude.

Xue Ye's gaze fell upon Xiao Yun once more. This time, there was greater solemnity in his eyes.

"Team leader Xiao