Promotion and Departure

The magnificent carriage headed into the city, with two snow-white, robust horses harnessed to the front of the carriage shaft. They moved with elegant and steady steps, pulling the carriage through the streets.

Along both sides of the road, meticulously rehearsed honor guards were already standing by, ready for action.

When they saw the carriage appear, they erupted in thunderous cheers and enthusiastic applause.

At the same time, dozens of beautiful young women dressed in gorgeous costumes flew lightly to the front of the carriage like butterflies, holding colorful flower petals in their hands and scattering them into the air.

In an instant, the petals fluttering in the air resembled colorful clouds, adorning the entire scene like a dream.

Seated inside the carriage, Marquis Gelorge looked through the window and watched with great interest the lively and festive scene outside.

He gazed at the enthusiastic crowds lining the streets to welcome his return and couldn't help but marvel.

Then, he turned to look at Alex, who was sitting opposite him, and asked curiously, "Was this unique welcoming ceremony also the work of that Viscount Golden Sunflower?"

Alex smiled and nodded in agreement, "That's right, my dear friend of mine is always good at coming up with unexpected ideas and always manages to bring unexpected surprises!"

Upon hearing this, Marquis Gelorge nodded in satisfaction and praised, "Such a unique way of welcoming you is truly impressive! When I return to the kingdom, I will certainly advise my brother, the king, to emulate this model when holding grand celebrations for the kingdom's territorial expansion in the future."

After a brief pause, he continued with a smile, "Of course, if things really go as I say, then we'll probably have to rely on the assistance of our talented Viscount Golden Sunflower —oh no, perhaps it would be more appropriate to call him 'Marquis Golden Sunflower' now!"

Faced with Marquis 'Gelorge teasing, Alex simply smiled, displaying the appropriate humility and politeness. "Given Victor's character, he would certainly be more than happy to lend a hand!"

The carriage traveled on and finally stopped in front of the Maple Leaf Palace.

The car door opened, Alex stepped out first, followed by Marquis Gelorge. The two then walked together toward the palace gate.

After entering the palace, Alex and Gelorge Marquis changed their clothes before arriving at the meeting place inside the palace.

At this moment, Victor was already there with the nobles of the Northern Alliance Army. Most of them were talking in hushed tones, and the atmosphere was warm and cheerful.

Alex walked to the center of the hall and shouted, "Everyone, please be quiet! Now, I officially announce the start of the promotion ceremony!" As soon as he finished speaking, the entire hall fell silent.

Next, Marquis Gelorge stepped forward, cleared his throat, and then read out a long list in the name of the King of the Raine Kingdom —the list of nobles who were being granted titles this time.

The names on the list were read out one by one, and everyone's face was filled with excitement and anticipation.

Finally, it was Alex and Victor's turn.

Marquis Gelorge solemnly said, "Alex Iron Birch was brave and fearless on the battlefield, and his father, the former Count Iron Birch, died on the battlefield to overthrow the tyranny of the Silver Maple Family."

Therefore, the King posthumously conferred upon Colt Iron Birch the Duke Iron Birch, and promoted Alex Iron Birch to Duke Iron Birch of the Central Vira Province the Raine Kingdom! Upon hearing this news, Alex's expression turned solemn. He stepped forward, bowed to the crowd, and indicated that he accepted this honor.

Immediately afterwards, Marquis Gelorge announced, "Victor Golden Sunflower, also for his outstanding performance, is promoted to Marquis Golden Sunflower of the North Vira Province of the Raine Kingdom!" Victor smiled and stepped forward to accept the honor.

(The Raine Kingdom divided the Grand Duchy of Vera into three provinces: South Vira Province, North Vira Province, and Central Vira Province.)

The ceremony has now basically concluded. Except for a few nobles who are not present, most of the newly promoted nobles have already received their investiture here!

Marquis Gelorge also gave a final speech. "Gentlemen, my brother the king has said that the kingdom will never be stingy with rewards for those who have rendered meritorious service. I hope that you will continue your efforts and look forward to presiding over the promotion ceremony for you all again!"

As the solemn and sacred ceremony came to a close, a grand banquet immediately commenced. Inside the magnificent banquet hall, the lights shone brightly, and the atmosphere was resplendent with gold; melodious music flowed like a gentle stream, captivating all who heard it.

The nobles, dressed in their finest attire, moved gracefully among the crowd, raising their glasses in toasts and engaging in lively conversation. Their faces beamed with joy; some were ecstatic about their promotions, while others celebrated the end of this long and brutal Civil War.

However, amidst this lively atmosphere, Marquis Gelorge led Alex and Victor to a secluded room.

After the three were seated, Marquis Gelorge spoke up, "This promotion ceremony is far too simple and hasty. In all due respect, the promotion ceremony for any noble promoted to Marquis or even higher rank should be held in the Noble Council hall of the kingdom's capital to be solemn and formal."

However, this time was different from the past. My brother knew that the war here had just ended, and that all the nobles were probably busy with many matters to attend to. Therefore, he made a special exception and appointed me to come here to preside over this promotion ceremony in his name."

Upon hearing this, Alex and Victor's expressions instantly turned serious. They immediately turned to face west and bowed respectfully to express their gratitude to His Majesty the King.

However, just when the two thought the matter was over, the Marquis spoke again, "Don't rush to thank me, there's one more thing I need to tell you."

Although the ceremony has been successfully completed, the high-ranking nobles from the three provinces of the Vela Region still need to personally travel to the kingdom's capital, Golden Tree City.

He paused, then continued, "Duke Alex, at the Harvest Festival to be held at the end of September next year, you will be able to lead all the high-ranking nobles of the Three Provinces of Vela to the capital to pay homage to your elder brother, the King!"

Upon hearing this, Alex quickly nodded and replied, "Rest assured, Your Marquis, I will certainly lead all the nobles to arrive on time to pay our respects to His Majesty the King!"

"That's good! When that time comes, I will extend a warm invitation to both of you to visit my manor."

After all, the bustling and vibrant capital of the kingdom, Golden Tree City, is far superior to this small Silver Maple City!

"I'm sure this trip won't disappoint you!" Marquis Gelorge with a smile.

After saying that, the three of them left the room!

Although Marquis Gelorge was of noble birth, he was clearly a connoisseur of banquets and quickly became acquainted with the other nobles.

Alex and Victor walked aside separately, with Alex saying apologetically, "Victor, you've had a tough time these past few days!"

"What are you talking about? I just did what I was supposed to do! Fortunately, I did a pretty good job, and we've finally put an end to this war!"

What are your plans after this?

"Of course I'll hand this business over to you as soon as possible! I want to go back to the Northlands; all I want to do now is go home and rest!"

Alex laughed upon hearing this, and only stopped after a while. "Then go home and get some rest! Veronica probably misses you a lot!"

You'd better put in the effort; I want to see my little nephew before we leave next year!

Victor laughed and scolded, "This isn't laying eggs! How can it be that fast?"

The two chatted enthusiastically and endlessly, discussing everything from trivial matters of daily life to national affairs, as if they had inexhaustible topics to discuss.

Perhaps it was because that cruel and torturous war had finally come to an end that they felt so relieved.

As the banquet drew to a close, the group of nobles who had originally intended to come over and congratulate them seized the opportunity and swarmed forward.

The following morning, as the sun shone brightly, Victor and Alex officially began the transfer of power.

Meanwhile, the Golden Sunflower Family's army also withdrew from the camp in Silver Maple City in an orderly manner, handing it over to the Iron Birch Family's army led by Alex.

In just five days, Victor had successfully completed all the handover matters; and the Iron Birch family's army quickly took over the defense of Silver Maple City.

After everything was arranged, Victor led the Golden Sunflower Family's troops on their journey north home.

Alex personally escorted Victor onto the ship and stood on the shore, gazing at the receding silhouette of the vessel until it disappeared over the horizon.

Then, Alex silently turned and returned to the Maple Leaf Palace. Upon entering the palace, he went straight to his study and took out a thick stack of letters from a drawer.

Without hesitation, Alex picked up one of the letters, gently tore open the envelope, and unfolded the letter.

The densely written words on the letter came into view, but he only glanced at it briefly before tossing it aside. Then, he quickly opened the second, the third... and did the same with each one.

Finally, Alex stood up, walked to the fireplace, and threw the stack of already opened letters into the roaring flames.

As he watched the papers gradually turn to ashes in the firelight, Alex's gaze grew increasingly deep and sharp.

At that moment, an officer strode into the study, bowed respectfully to Alex, and asked, "Your Majesty, what are your instructions?"

Alex turned around, staring intently at the officer, and slowly said, "Immediately arrange for people to closely monitor the nobles who sent these letters. Oh, and the list Victor gave me."

They dared to try and sow discord between me and Victor; there must be something hidden behind this.

Find out exactly what they're up to!

"Yes, sir!"