Chapter 3: A Knight’s Loyal Heart

A gentle breeze whispered through the trees as dawn’s first light gradually spread, shimmering like dazzling gemstones and casting an alluring glow. The morning breeze, like a mischievous youth, lightly tousled Mels’ hair—lifting it up, then gently letting it fall. The five of them, including Bagina, stood as if petrified by magic, staring in stunned silence at Xiu Lante.

At that moment, only one thought filled their minds: *This man is the Dragon Knight Captain!*

“What’s wrong? You kids are staring at me as if I’m some kind of monster,” Xiu Lante said, feeling quite uncomfortable.

“No way—this must be a dream! This is just a joke. You… you’re the Dragon Knight Captain?” Bagina finally spoke up.

“Heh, so you’re still doubting my identity. Then let me show you this. I believe anyone living on this continent would recognize it!” Xiu Lante smiled faintly and carefully withdrew a palm-sized gold medal from his inner pocket.

On its front was engraved *“Imperial Dragon Knight”*, while its reverse bore a majestic flying dragon—wings fully outstretched, head held high—as if gazing down upon the world!

Staring at the exquisitely carved gold medal, studded with countless diamonds, Mels and the others were left speechless.

Since childhood, the inheritor of the Eight-Part Dragon King, Duke Res Bolt, and the Dragon Knight Captain had been their greatest idols. Though Sarikat and the others harbored deep resentment toward the Duke and the Dragon Knights Regiment for reasons unknown, the youths’ admiration never wavered. Whenever thieves returned from reconnaissance missions beyond the borders, the young ones would pester them endlessly for tales about the Duke and the Dragon Knights Regiment.

They never imagined that, on their journey into the empire to pursue a fugitive, they would forge a bond with Xiu Lante—and even receive his personal recommendation to participate in the Dragon Knights Regiment’s selection trials. To Mels, it all felt as wondrous as a dream.

“Hey, hey—stop with the silence!” Seeing everyone fall mute again after gazing at his medal, Xiu Lante hurriedly reminded them of his presence.

But before his words even faded, Sol suddenly shouted, “Wow! Boss—this is amazing! Absolutely amazing! Our three wishes—to become knights, marry beautiful wives, and become wealthy landowners—one of them is about to come true so soon! Fantastic! Absolutely fantastic!” Sol grabbed Mels and Rek, jumping and cheering wildly.

Perhaps infected by Sol’s excitement—or perhaps still dazed by sudden joy—Mels and Rek, uncharacteristically, joined Sol’s frenzy, as if they’d already been knighted.

Watching these three grown boys revel in unrestrained delight, Xiu Lante felt a sudden warmth well up inside him. *Becoming knights? Marrying beautiful wives? Becoming wealthy landowners? Are these truly the ambitions of these three boys? Heh… such innocent years seem so distant now.*

“G-Grand Commander—when will the martial arts competition portion of the selection trials be held?” Mels stopped laughing and turned to ask.

“Huh? Oh.” As if jolted from deep thought, Xiu Lante abruptly realized Mels was speaking to him and hastily replied, “As long as you reach the imperial capital within a month, I’ll have time to draft your recommendation letters! However, the martial arts competition is only one component of the knight selection process. Two additional tests vary each cycle—sometimes assessing talent, sometimes tactics, and occasionally featuring bizarre questions personally devised by His Majesty the Emperor himself. These are designed specifically to prevent noble-born candidates from infiltrating the regiment through connections—a practice that would severely undermine its combat effectiveness.

So don’t celebrate too early. Out of every thousand applicants per cycle, only thirty are selected—that’s a mere one in thirty-three! Though the ratio may sound favorable, every candidate is an elite drawn from across the realm.

Moreover, to bolster the regiment’s prestige, imperial nobles begin scouting talent across the continent years in advance of each cycle. Whether you pass ultimately hinges on both luck and genuine ability.”

“Haha—so long as we step forward, no one else stands a chance! Hahaha…” Sol laughed, utterly carefree.

Suddenly, his laughter cut off mid-chuckle—as if he’d just remembered something vital. He rushed up to Xiu Lante in panic, nearly nose-to-nose, and blurted, “Grand Commander—I’m a mage! Can I still take part in the knight selection trials? If I have to fight warriors in the arena, I’ll lose without even lifting a finger. How could I possibly win?”

Seeing Sol’s near-tearful expression, Xiu Lante burst into hearty laughter. “Haha—didn’t you just say no one else stands a chance? Why the sudden loss of confidence?

Don’t worry. In smaller nations, warriors are typically prioritized due to scarcity of magical talent. But the Dragon Knights Regiment emphasizes comprehensive combat capability—and powerful mages are indispensable. Thus, mages compete in a separate category and aren’t required to engage in one-on-one physical duels like warriors. Instead, they undergo rapid magic energy assessments using calibrated meters; only those with the strongest output advance to the second round.

Truthfully, among all of you, you’re the one I’m least concerned about. Given your youth and mastery of the ‘Silent Magic Gathering Spell,’ I doubt even the most incompetent examiner could overlook a talent like yours! You might even be granted direct admission—bypassing subsequent rounds entirely!” Xiu Lante patted Sol’s head affectionately, like an elder doting on a beloved younger sibling.

“That’s great! A genius like me will definitely have no problems!” Sol instantly brightened.

“Um…” Just as Sol and the others erupted into joyful celebration, Bagina softly interjected.

Mels turned—and saw Bagina wanting to speak to Xiu Lante but too shy to do so. Instantly grasping her intent, he stepped forward.

“Grand Commander—I’d like to ask: are women permitted in the knights regiment?”

Upon hearing Mels’ question, Xiu Lante suddenly noticed Bagina’s unwavering gaze fixed upon him.

Though middle-aged and lifelong unmarried, he instinctively understood a young girl’s heart. With a gentle smile, he deliberately shifted his eyes away from Bagina and addressed Mels: “In the Relkes Empire, many heroic women have risen to prominence—two of the Sword Guardians were even women. Naturally, women may also apply for the knights regiment’s selection trials.

That said, the trials hold women to the exact same standards as men. Only the strongest advance—no concessions are made on account of gender. Of course, I’m confident the highly skilled female warrior standing beside you will pass the assessment with ease!” His words not only lifted a weight from Bagina’s heart but carried unmistakable encouragement.

“Great! So as long as we work hard, all of us can join the knights regiment!” Mels declared, smiling broadly.

“Wait—I must clarify several points now. First, during the Probationary Knight assessment, you’ll need to submit a background statement. Earlier, I asked about your masters—but you explained they strictly forbade you from revealing their names. I fully understand and respect that, and I won’t press further.

However, precisely because of this restriction, your background form must list your training as ‘family-taught martial arts.’ To reviewers, that phrase equates to ‘unknown origins’—though it won’t disqualify you outright, it will severely hinder your future advancement to full knighthood. After all, the knights regiment isn’t a haven for those of obscure lineage!

Secondly—though I’ve personally verified your martial prowess—you must remember: anything can happen on the battlefield. The martial arts competition in the Probationary Knight trials uses real weapons. Though rules dictate stopping ‘at the point,’ bleeding and injuries occur annually. Such incidents never impede victors’ advancement—but you must exercise extreme caution!

Lastly, given our current distance from the imperial capital, the journey will take over twenty days. To minimize risks en route, I recommend departing for the capital immediately. That way, I’ll have ample time to prepare your recommendations.” Xiu Lante spoke gravely to Mels and the others.

Upon hearing his words, the five youths exchanged glances—then simultaneously shouted, “Then what are we waiting for? Let’s hit the road—now!” Watching the youthful sparkle ignite in their eyes, Xiu Lante felt as if he’d grown younger himself.

For reasons he couldn’t quite articulate, Xiu Lante felt an unusual fondness for Mels. It was precisely this affection that drove him to hope Mels would remain close—and even prompted him to leverage his own reputation to create this opportunity for Mels and the others.

In truth, Mels didn’t know that since assuming the title of Dragon Knight Captain at age eighteen—thirty years ago—Xiu Lante had *never* recommended a single candidate to the regiment, always deflecting inquiries with claims of disinterest. And yet, this time—thanks solely to Xiu Lante’s endorsement—Mels and his companions would face unexpectedly formidable adversaries!

Mounted on swift steeds, Mels and his companions raced like the wind toward Pombek—the imperial capital at the heart of the Relkes Empire. During this journey, all hatred seemed to melt from Mels’ heart, and a long-absent smile finally reappeared on his face.

Witnessing Mels’ transformation, Sol and the others grew even more elated. Even Bagina began teasing him again—just as she used to—prodding his fighting spirit.

Riding day and night, twenty days passed in a flash. At last, the silhouette of the imperial capital, Pombek, rose before them. Situated centrally in the Relkes Empire, Pombek stood as the realm’s most historically profound—and prosperous—core city! As capital of the continent’s most powerful empire, its sheer grandeur commanded awe.

Pombek comprised three distinct zones. At its center, the imperial palace crowned Flying Dragon Mountain—the legendary birthplace of the Relkes Empire’s founder, the “Holy Emperor.” To honor his monumental achievements, later generations erected the continent’s tallest castle atop Flying Dragon Mountain—the original nucleus of the imperial capital.

As the capital’s population swelled and its economy and culture flourished, the narrow confines of Flying Dragon Mountain proved inadequate. Thus, during the reign of the sixth emperor, commoners were relocated to the mountain’s base—and the castle became the exclusive domain of the emperor and nobility.

To safeguard civilians, the empire invested thirty years constructing three magnificent concentric walls encircling Flying Dragon Mountain—enclosing all residents and land within. This formed the new capital’s vast layout.

Originally, such scale sufficed to deter any threat. Yet by the nineteenth emperor’s reign, internal strife ignited civil war. To shield the ancient capital from rebel devastation—and address the defensive weakness posed by excessively long perimeter walls—the emperor ordered construction of four colossal military fortresses at the city’s cardinal points—east, south, west, and north—each capable of housing half a million troops.

Though completed long after hostilities ceased, the capital’s final configuration was already set. Today, each fortress houses roughly one hundred thousand imperial troops. A metropolis of such magnitude would give any invading force serious pause.

Within today’s imperial capital, all land atop Flying Dragon Mountain belongs exclusively to the imperial family. Aside from a select few high-ranking, influential ministers, no other nobles may reside there. The walled commoner district shelters nearly four million souls—its economic and cultural vitality unmatched anywhere on the continent!

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Since the Relkes Empire originated as a noble federation, though millennia of prosperity have reduced feudal lords’ power to its lowest ebb, these nobles retain de facto governance over their respective domains. The military answers directly to the emperor—so all imperial capital expenditures derive from regional “tribute funds,” a massive sum continuously flowing into the imperial treasury.

Of the empire’s nearly three million troops, the majority are funded by regional lords. The imperial court provides only limited assistance during crises—hence the capital receives disproportionately generous infrastructure investment, fueling its exceptional prosperity.

The empire’s enduring success stems chiefly from the emperor’s monthly dispatch of Special Envoys to inspect regional administrations. Upon discovering corrupt or tyrannical governors—those perverting justice or oppressing citizens—these supremely empowered envoys act decisively: arresting, replacing, and sometimes executing offenders on the spot to quell public outrage.

Because envoys rotate regularly, governors seeking bribes find no stable targets—and thus serve diligently instead.

The emperor isn’t unreasonable either. For commoners, life under “incorruptible” noble governors remains blissful—“living in heaven,” as it were—a natural outcome of the empire’s economic flourishing.

Though the empire maintains a vast military, external warfare remains rare. Aside from occasional clashes with demon tribes and magical beasts along the western frontier, imperial forces primarily suppress internal rebellions and eradicate bandits.

Of these two duties, bandit eradication occurs most frequently. Perhaps because the Relkes Empire is so affluent, desperate outlaws across the continent consistently target its merchant caravans.

As the empire’s military, its foremost duty is maintaining peace and stability within imperial borders. Consequently, successive emperors have pursued bandits with near-ruthless efficiency: troops arrive within two days wherever bandits appear. Yet despite this, banditry shows no sign of decline—perhaps humanity’s innate laziness and aversion to labor run too deep.

By the time Mels and his companions reached the imperial capital, dusk had fallen. Ordinarily, entry would be barred at this hour—but thanks to Xiu Lante’s special status, they passed smoothly through a small gate beside the main city entrance.

Upon returning to the capital, Xiu Lante transformed. His formerly warm smile vanished, replaced by the commanding aura of the Imperial Dragon Knight Commander. After instructing two guards—who’d arrived to greet him—to escort Mels and the others, Xiu Lante strode alone toward the road ascending Flying Dragon Mountain to the royal castle.

Though his departure left Mels and the others with a pang of loss, they understood Xiu Lante had pressing responsibilities—and couldn’t accompany them indefinitely.

Over recent days, Xiu Lante had thoroughly explained the empire’s history and key details of the Probationary Knight trials. Yet as first-time visitors to the capital, they remained intensely curious about this immense city. Perhaps mistaking Mels and his companions for scions of royalty or nobility—given their rare sight of the Knight Captain speaking so kindly—the two guards escorted all five youths to the aristocratic guesthouse in the city center. They specifically instructed staff to assign Mels and his friends the finest rooms and provide attentive service. Only after Mels settled into the guesthouse’s most luxurious suite did the two guards politely take their leave.

For all these reasons, Mels and the others, born in the countryside and having never seen the sights and splendor of the wider world, felt like they'd died and gone to heaven at that moment. Aside from Bagina, who was already accustomed to a luxurious life, the rest whooped, laughed, and carried on, incredibly excited.

While Mels and the others were enjoying the comforts of the inn, Xiu Lante had already entered the Imperial Commander-in-Chief's residence. Originally, this was his favorite place to be, but now he only wanted to complete his report to the Commander as soon as possible and leave this mansion that made him feel uneasy.

"Xiu Lante, you're back." Just as Xiu Lante wanted to quietly enter Duke Bolt's study without disturbing anyone, the last person he wanted to run into appeared before him.

Winnie Litt, the daughter of Right Prime Minister Romark Litt and also Duke Bolt's second wife. Although this well-educated woman was as beautiful and charming as the duke's former wife, Yuer Fongkeduo, for reasons he couldn't quite pinpoint, Xiu Lante always felt somewhat uncomfortable around her.

For more than twenty years, although Winnie had repeatedly tried to reach out to Xiu Lante, he still couldn't open his heart and fully trust this woman. While her care made Xiu Lante feel somewhat guilty, whenever he faced her, he would think of Yuer Fongkeduo, who was like an older sister to him. Perhaps this was why Xiu Lante couldn't face her.

"My Lady, you're still awake. I apologize for disturbing you. I should be going," Xiu Lante said respectfully.

"Xiu Lante, you're still the same. Why do you treat me like an outsider no matter how many times the duke and I ask you not to? Is it something I've done?" the duchess said with a hint of sadness.

"There's been a misunderstanding, My Lady. Xiu Lante is just a warrior and cannot presume to accept your kindness. I will always remember your care, but I must observe the proper formalities," Xiu Lante apologized.

"I know it's because of the former duchess that you treat me so coldly. Actually..." As soon as the duchess spoke, she realized she had said the wrong thing again!

Sure enough, Xiu Lante's expression changed, as if he were in great pain. He cut in firmly, "It's late, and I have important matters to discuss with His Grace. If I delay any longer, I'm afraid His Grace will think me negligent. I must take my leave now. Please forgive me, Duchess." With that, Xiu Lante disregarded how the duchess felt and immediately stepped around her to head toward Duke Bolt's study.

Watching Xiu Lante's departing figure, the duchess stood there forlornly.

The reason she valued Xiu Lante so much was not only because of his cold response to her but also because she hoped her sworn sister could marry this extraordinary man with remarkable looks and high status in the empire.

Unfortunately, for over ten years, Xiu Lante had always refused this marriage proposal for various reasons and remained single to this day. It was a twisted fate. The duchess's sworn sister, from a young girl over a decade ago to now, still unmarried, had always wanted to marry Xiu Lante. Unfortunately, while the goddess was willing, the king was not, and this promising match had been in limbo ever since.

In fact, given Xiu Lante's status, talent and looks, it wouldn't be difficult for him to marry a princess if he wanted to. But he remained as he always had been, unwilling to have anything to do with other women. Perhaps only Xiu Lante himself knew the reason.

Leaving the duchess, Xiu Lante quickened his pace and approached the duke's study. Just as he reached the door, Duke Bolt's voice came from inside the study: "Xiu Lante, is that you? Come in quickly."

Hearing the duke's summons, Xiu Lante hurriedly apologized, shook off his unhappiness, and gently pushed open the door to enter the study. Duke Bolt, nearing sixty, was sitting at his desk reading a book on military strategy.

Seeing Xiu Lante enter, Bolt put down the book, perked up, and smiled slightly. "Xiu Lante, how was this trip? Did you gain anything?"

"Reporting to Your Grace, during this inspection, I discovered that the governor of Kadoli Province was involved in the plot to assassinate you and was colluding with the Righteous Qi Sect! After executing the governor of Kadoli on the spot, I was nearly harmed by the Righteous Qi Sect. Thanks to the help of several young heroes, I was able to return safely," Xiu Lante replied respectfully.

"What? They dared to attack you? That Righteous Qi Sect is bold! Tomorrow, I will ask His Majesty to uproot this evil cult! By the way, are you all right?" After hearing Xiu Lante's report, Bolt first flew into a rage, then smiled slightly. No matter how much Bolt craved power, he genuinely cared for Xiu Lante.

"Thank you for your concern, Your Grace. I have fully recovered," Xiu Lante said expressionlessly.

"Ah, Xiu Lante, I know you're still holding onto the past. Actually, it was my momentary foolishness to want to kill Yuer. You know, I had my reasons for doing so. Can't you forgive me?" Bolt said.

"Your Grace's decisions naturally have your own considerations. I only know how to serve you and protect your safety. I don't concern myself with anything else. Please don't trouble yourself with such trivial matters," Xiu Lante replied, still expressionless.

Looking at Xiu Lante's response, Duke Bolt remained silent for a long time. After a moment of silence between them, Duke Bolt spoke again: "Whether you believe it or not, I truly regret my actions back then. I don't even know if Yuer is still alive today. If I can find her and her child, I will definitely make it up to them!

Ah, I have already been punished. Although Winnie gave me a son who inherited the Seven-Colored Diamond, to this day, he still cannot summon a beast! And my Eight-part Dragon King is losing power every day as I age. If this continues, I'm afraid..."

"Your Grace need not worry excessively. The inheritance ceremony for each generation of the Eight-part Dragon King requires specific conditions to occur. Although the young master cannot summon the Eight-part Dragon King today, it also means that Your Grace is still as strong as ever. I believe that in a few years, the young master will surely inherit your summoned beast and become the new imperial commander! The night is deep. If Your Grace has no other orders, I shall take my leave," Xiu Lante said respectfully to Bolt, bowing his head.

"Ah, alright. You must be tired. Go rest early. If anything comes up, come see me anytime," Bolt said helplessly.

Just as Xiu Lante was about to leave, he suddenly remembered something and turned to face Bolt again. "Your Grace, there is something I hope to receive your support for."

"Oh? What is it? I'll agree to anything," Bolt said promptly, seeing that Xiu Lante, who hadn't made any requests for years, was now taking the initiative.

"When I was in danger, I was rescued by five young men. They are all around twenty years old, but their martial arts and magical skills are thousands of times higher than ordinary people. They are even comparable to the current knights in the order. Therefore, I brought them back to the capital, hoping they can participate in the upcoming special selection for Probationary Knights. Due to my humble status, I fear I cannot persuade everyone to agree to recommend all five at once, so I wish to ask for your help," Xiu Lante tactfully stated his request.

"Haha, since they are people you have taken a liking to, they are naturally talents who will become pillars of the empire! Well, in recent years, the quality of the Dragon Knights Regiment has indeed declined. It seems it's time to select more elites! Let them participate without worry. If anyone dares to oppose, I will handle it! By the way, should I make an exception and directly promote them to Probationary Knights?" Bolt said.

Judging by how readily he agreed to Xiu Lante's request, Bolt must have been able to get whatever he wanted in the empire in recent years. Although Bolt's proposal was very tempting, Xiu Lante still refused: "Thank you for your help, Your Grace. As for the exceptional promotion, I believe it is not yet suitable.

There is no precedent for this in the empire, and an exceptional promotion would inevitably give Left Prime Minister and others grounds for criticism. Moreover, the selection test is just an opportunity for these children to train themselves. If they cannot earn their own status through their own strength, then they are merely mediocre talents. Therefore, I must respectfully decline your proposal for an exceptional promotion."

"Alright, since you say so, I won't insist. However, if they successfully become Probationary Knights, you must bring them to see me then. I also want to see what these young men who have moved the 'Cold-Faced Knight' look like. Haha..." Bolt laughed heartily.

"I obey, Your Grace. I shall take my leave now," Xiu Lante said, bidding farewell to the duke and leaving the study.

Closing the door and looking up at the moon hanging high in the sky, Xiu Lante felt a myriad of melancholy emotions.

"Duchess, where are you now? Is the young master safe and sound? Why have you had no news for so many years? Ah..." After letting out a long sigh, Xiu Lante collected his emotions, left the duke's mansion, and headed toward the knights' residence.

Since the duchess left, Xiu Lante had moved out of the duke's mansion and had been living in the Dragon Knights Regiment headquarters for twenty years.

Although in recent years, the aging Duke Bolt had repeatedly expressed his regret to Xiu Lante in private, Xiu Lante could never forget the scene in the snow that year. Perhaps, as Duke Bolt said, Xiu Lante still couldn't forgive him for his heartlessness back then.

Early the next morning, Xiu Lante, dressed in brand-new knight armor, came to the noble guesthouse to request a meeting with Mels and the others. His arrival threw the officials in the guesthouse into chaos.

Although they often received dignitaries from various regions, important imperial ministers like Xiu Lante rarely appeared. Because of this, the officials were even more relieved that they hadn't neglected Mels and the others the previous night. Otherwise, offending the Dragon Knight Captain would mean certain death even with nine lives.

In fact, Xiu Lante's visit wasn't to check if Mels and the others were comfortable but to use his free time in the morning to take them to the registration site for the Probationary Knight selection and familiarize them with the competition venue's environment and possible unusual test questions.

However, he didn't expect that his actions, before benefiting Mels and the others, would make them the target of all the other participants! A tough battle with an unknown outcome was about to begin from this very morning!