On April 15, 5584 of the Dragon Calendar, the first day of the warm season, the weather over the Volcanic Oasis was exceptionally clear.
Sunlight scorched every inch of land evenly.
Furious Wind City sang and danced in celebration of the birth of the Shadowflame Grand Duchy's third earl—Earl Thunderflame Russell Fluorite Mushroom.
The true elevation ceremony was held in the great hall of Red Castle.
With the grand duke's position vacant, the ceremony, just like Russell's previous baronial investiture, was presided over by Regent Lady Princess Anxia. Every noble in the Shadowflame Grand Duchy was present, including Count Oscro's family, whom Russell had thoroughly humiliated.
The great hall was packed with nobles. Even the lords stationed at the borders had handed their duties to their deputies and come in person.
The roars of wyverns were endless.
"Having forged a Knight's Path unseen since ancient times, advanced to Second-Turn High-Level Dragon Domain Lord, developed the Qingqiu Warmlands to strengthen the nation, and slain Snow Giant Da with his sword to display his mighty martial prowess... Russell Fluorite Mushroom, Baron of Thunder Flame, has rendered great service to the nation and the Shadowflame Dragonblood Family. He shall therefore be elevated to Earl Thunderflame, with the title hereditary in perpetuity!"
Princess Anxia finished reading the Golden Seal decree with a radiant smile. Russell, now dressed in even more distinguished earl's robes, stepped forward, struck his chest in salute, and accepted the decree.
He raised the Golden Seal decree.
Russell spoke the same words he had said during his baronial investiture: "I, Russell Fluorite Mushroom, shall defend the Shadowflame Grand Duchy with my blood, guard the Shadowflame Dragon, and guard the Shadowflame Dragonblood Family!"
Below the hall,
countless nobles gazed eagerly at Russell. Some of their fervent stares had practically turned numb; Russell's