Extraordinary Rise: Starting Contract with the Silver Dragon Countess

The morning light filtered through the tall oak trees at the entrance of the National College of Political Science and Law, casting dappled shadows on the bustling crowd.

Du Sen stood at the familiar school gate, but his feelings were completely different from when he was a student.

He took a deep breath of the air, which carried a faint scent of ink and breakfast, trying to calm his slightly nervous heartbeat.

As one of the top students graduating this year from the National College of Political Science and Law, he was quite confident about today's exam.

His parents were officials in the Florence political and legal system, and he was influenced by them from a young age. After graduating from university, he resolutely turned down many offers from top law firms.

I chose to take the civil service exam and applied for a position in the Florence Municipal Legal Department.

After four years of hard study and countless nights burning the midnight oil in the library, Du Sen had long since mastered the national legal code and various administrative laws.

Today, he specially wore the dark gray suit he usually doesn't wear often, which he had prepared for the interview. He also carefully combed his hair, striving to show the most professional and meticulous side.

Surrounded by several close friends who had been his classmates for many years, these people were also candidates, but they applied to different departments.

Some set their sights on clerical positions in the Ministry of the Interior, some wanted to challenge themselves in the newly established "Intercontinental Affairs Coordination Division," and others wanted to enter the finance and taxation system.

With the exam approaching, they didn't plan to cram at the last minute, but instead talked about the historical tide that had propelled them onto this path.

A young man wearing glasses, who had applied for a tax analyst position at the Ministry of Finance, pushed up his glasses, lowered his voice, but his tone was filled with excitement:

"Who would have thought that just a few years ago, civil service exams were mostly for low-paying government positions, with few applicants, mostly local gentry sons seeking stability."

What now?
Look at this sea of ​​people! I heard the number of applicants nationwide is almost five times higher than last year!

Another tall girl chimed in, her eyes sparkling:
"Yes, the country has won one great victory after another. Marshal Arnold swept across the Northwest, and Lord Nephthys secured so many alliances without shedding a drop of blood."

As the territory expands day by day, new institutions and newly acquired towns are everywhere in need of manpower.

Compensation naturally increased, not to mention career prospects.

She paused, a hint of longing in her voice:
“My father works in the Chamber of Commerce. He says that in the capital nowadays, it’s much more prestigious for a family to have a member working in a powerful department of the kingdom than simply doing business.”

That meant truly participating in creating a new era.

"Creating a new era..."

Dusen murmured the word, a surge of warmth welling up in his chest.

This is exactly the sentiment of many young people of their generation.

Effie's rise was not due to ancient hereditary privileges or solidified rights, but rather to hard work and achievements through new policies, a strong military, and solid results. This gave countless young people like him, who came from ordinary backgrounds but had ambitions, unprecedented opportunities.

Applying for a government civil service position is no longer just about securing a stable job, but about throwing oneself into a grand wave of national development.

A boy who was always well-informed leaned closer mysteriously, lowering his voice even further:

"It's not just about the future. My cousin, who works as a clerk in the personnel department, told me that this year is different from previous years. In order to ensure that the governance of the newly incorporated territories can implement the national will, the selection standards are higher, especially in the final interview stage."

It is said that all candidates who make it to the final interview lists for core departments directly under the provinces and central ministries will be personally interviewed by Prime Minister Angus!

"His Excellency the Prime Minister personally conducted the interviews!"

The group gasped almost simultaneously, their eyes gleaming with disbelief.

His Excellency Angus Angelion, the Prime Minister, is the right-hand man of His Majesty King Corleone and the biological father of Queen Angelion.

Overseeing all national affairs, he was the pinnacle of the civil service system, a truly powerful figure "second only to the emperor."

Having the opportunity to showcase oneself in front of such important figures, even if it's just a brief interview, is enough to make one tremble with excitement.

It also means that once selected, the starting point of one's career and the level of importance attached to one will be completely different.

As the group whispered among themselves, Du Sen's gaze inadvertently swept over another group of familiar figures nearby.

That was his high school classmate, a boy named Eric.

Their eyes met, and Eric seemed a little embarrassed, but he still came over to say hello.

Eric smiled, waved the exam admission ticket in his hand, and said:
"Du Sen, you're at this test center too, what a coincidence."

Now that we're on your turf, please take care of me!

Dusen responded with a smile, casually asking:
"Yes, which department did you apply to? Is it also the municipal political and legal department?"

Eric shook his head, then held the admission ticket closer so that Dusen could see the applied position printed in clear font:
"It's not municipal law; I applied for the Economic Development and Resource Management position at the Southern Province - Rockfall City Regional Government Office."

"Southern Territory, Fallen Rock City?"

Dusen was taken aback, almost thinking he had misread it. He subconsciously lowered his voice, with a hint of confusion and concern, "Eric, why...did you report there?"

Although the Southern Territory has developed rapidly in recent years and the Red Dragon Duchess has governed it effectively, it is still a newly developed frontier territory. How can its conditions compare with those of the capital?
Besides, I remember your hometown is in the western part of Florence, right?

Staying in the capital offers far better opportunities, resources, and perspectives than going to the southern border.

In Dusen's view, given Eric's achievements and background, staying in the core departments of the capital was the right path for him; going to a place like the Southern Territory felt like being "exiled to the frontier."

Although the status of a civil servant is still valuable, the starting point and future development potential seem to be significantly lower.

Faced with his old classmate's question, Eric did not show any disappointment or helplessness on his face. Instead, a strange expression appeared on his face, a mixture of sweetness and pride.

He scratched his head, somewhat embarrassed, but his tone was firm:
"Well... actually, I personally want to stay in the capital."

But my girlfriend… you know, Lillian, she’s a fervent admirer of Duchess Iliad the Red Dragon.

The positions offered in this recruitment drive, especially those in Fallen Rock, are very suitable for her major.

She signed up without hesitation, determined to succeed.

Eric sighed, but his eyes were bright: "She's going, and I... I can't just let her go so far away by herself, can I?"

Moreover, to be honest, after learning more about it, I think the Southern Territory is not bad either.

Under the rule of the Grand Duke of Iliad, the atmosphere is very pragmatic and there are many opportunities, which is especially suitable for young people like us who want to do something practical and don't like the complicated interpersonal relationships in the capital.

"If I could truly pass the exam and work under the Grand Duke, participating in the development and construction of the Southern Territory, that would be a remarkable career, no less arduous than the paperwork in the capital."

Du Sen listened, speechless for a moment.

He understood Eric's devotion to his girlfriend and had heard about the rapid changes taking place in the Southern Territory under the rule of the Red Dragon Duchess.

Knowing that the Grand Duke of Iliad was His Majesty the King's lover, the future development of the Southern Territory would certainly not lack support and resources.

Go there, and perhaps you will find a whole new world.

However, the driving force behind this choice—changing his life trajectory because of his girlfriend's aspirations—still seemed a bit too romantic and impulsive to him.

But seeing the certainty and expectation for the future in Eric's eyes, he ultimately swallowed his words of advice and simply patted the other on the shoulder:

"I see... Well then, I wish you and Lillian can both get what you want."

The South might truly be a new world.

Besides young people like Dusen and Eric, who are about to enter the examination hall to be selected, there are also those who harbor aspirations for the future of the country and personal ambitions.

Scattered across the square were many figures who had not applied for the exam but had also arrived early, each with their own feelings.

They were the family and friends who accompanied the examinees, forming a warm background soundtrack to this grand selection process.

Parents watch with eager eyes, repeatedly checking whether their children have brought all their documents and stationery.

There were lovers holding hands tightly and whispering blessings, as well as friends offering lighthearted encouragement and jokes, trying to dilute the invisible pressure.

As Dusen listened to Eric talk about choosing the Southern Territory to follow his girlfriend, his initial surprise at his classmate's choice gradually subsided, replaced by a complex mix of emotions.

My gaze unconsciously searched through the crowd, and soon settled on a figure standing quietly under a sycamore tree not far away.

This is Milan, a quiet and elegant girl from his department but a different class.

She was also the person he secretly admired but never dared to confess to.

He noticed that Milan was only carrying a delicate handbag, unlike the document bags or pencil cases commonly seen on test takers.

Du Sen's heart stirred slightly. He mustered his courage, squeezed through the crowd, approached her, and softly asked:

"Milan, didn't you come here to take the exam?"

Milan turned around at the sound of the voice, saw Dusen, and smiled politely, his smile still gentle.

Good morning, Dusen.

Yes, I didn't apply for the civil service exam. Several of my roommates took the exam, and I came to cheer them on.

"Not applying?"

Du Sen was somewhat surprised. Given Milan's academic performance and consistent conduct at the academy, entering the political and legal system was a natural progression.

A vague sense of disappointment mixed with curiosity welled up inside her, and she asked with concern:

"So... what are your plans after graduation?"

Milan tucked a stray hair behind her ear and explained calmly:

“My family has already arranged a place for me. I will join the Dawn Light Energy Group and serve as a secretary in the External Liaison Department at the headquarters.”

"Dawn Light Energy Group?"

Before Du Sen could react, several classmates who had been chatting with Eric but had sharp ears had already gathered around, their faces immediately showing undisguised envy.

"Wow, Dawn of Light! That's one of Princess Isabella's core businesses!"

A young man with considerable knowledge of the kingdom's business world immediately exclaimed in a low voice, his eyes gleaming:

"We have a deep strategic partnership with 'Pale Wings,' the number one business organization in mainland China. We share technology and have interconnected channels. We are working on the latest magic energy applications and large-scale urban energy supply networks, among other top-notch projects."

"The benefits are outrageously good, and the promotion path is transparent; countless people would kill to get in!" another girl added enviously.

"It's not just about the good treatment; joining Dawn of Light is like having one foot in the core of Princess Isabella's business empire."

If I perform exceptionally well, I might actually have the chance to meet Her Highness the Princess in person.

That's the 'Golden Winged Daughter,' renowned for her wisdom and skill!

Faced with the students' amazement and envy, Milan maintained a polite smile, a hint of confidence and anticipation flashing in her eyes.

“My family did put in a lot of effort. My father used some connections to get me the position of foreign affairs secretary.”

This position offers opportunities to participate in the external liaison and minutes work for some of the group's senior management meetings. If you're lucky, you might even get a chance to see Her Highness Princess Isabella from afar when you go to headquarters for meetings.

Milan's words were subtle, but her longing to get close to Her Highness the Princess was clearly evident.

Upon hearing this, the crowd murmured envy once again.

In their view, Milan's choice is also a golden road, and even more attractive due to its scarcity and the possibility of being close to the core of power.

Du Sen felt a complex mix of emotions; it turned out that not everyone saw a career in politics as the only viable path.

In this rapidly developing country, diverse career paths are provided for young people, allowing them to pursue politics, business, or cutting-edge research, each demonstrating their unique talents.

While the discussion was lively in Dusen's small circle, there were several relatively quiet areas on the edge of the square.

These young people stood alone against the wall, or talked in twos and threes in hushed tones. They were unusually calm and had sharp eyes. Even in such a noisy environment, they maintained an almost instinctive alertness.

He was out of place among his excited and nervous peers.

They rarely participate in discussions about applying to certain departments or future prospects. When asked, they either give vague answers or simply remain silent.

They possess an indescribable quality, as if they have undergone some kind of selection or training.

A particularly well-informed person, who loved to show off, whispered in the crowd:

"See those guys over there? They all have a different vibe."

My uncle works in the logistics department of the military headquarters, and I heard that... they received a special 'invitation'.

The application wasn't for ordinary government officials, but for a secret recruitment by the Military Intelligence Bureau.

Military Intelligence Bureau!

The moment the name was uttered, the entire room fell silent, and everyone turned to look at the person who had revealed the secret.

The man paused deliberately, enjoying the sudden focus of attention from those around him, and then said:

"Their recruitment process is superficially the same as ours, with written tests, interviews, and so on."

However, the exam papers were individually sealed, and after the exam, they were secretly taken away by designated personnel and sent to the Military Intelligence Bureau headquarters for review.

The selection criteria, training content... those are all top secret.

Those who receive an invitation either have a completely clean background after a thorough investigation, or they have special talents or skills that have caught their attention.

What I'm going to do from now on are all truly shady and important things...

These words drew another murmur of surprise and awe from those around them, but the young people who were being pointed out seemed oblivious or simply didn't care, maintaining their indifference and distance.

Just as the murmurs subsided and the whispers about future prospects, idols, and secret departments continued, the well-informed boy seemed to think that the "Military Intelligence Bureau revelation" hadn't been shocking enough.

Then, an even more explosive "insider information" was released.

He looked around mysteriously and whispered:

"There's another thing. My aunt works as a lady-in-waiting outside the palace. She overheard the ladies-in-waiting of their conversations and let it slip."

Her Royal Highness Queen Adele Angrain will most likely make random visits to several important examination sites today, to demonstrate the Royal Family's emphasis on talent selection!

"Your Highness?"

"The most beautiful woman in mainland China!"

"The youngest legendary-level expert on the mainland, will she personally come to the examination hall?"

A collective gasp of surprise erupted from the surrounding crowd, and the eyes of many young people, especially the boys, lit up.

Queen Adel Angelion was not only King Cohen's companion, but her legendary strength, unparalleled beauty, and the perseverance and wisdom she displayed in numerous crises made her an idol for countless young people in the kingdom.

To be able to see its true appearance here would be a blessing to remember for a lifetime.

This news was like a pebble thrown into a calm lake, stirring up ripples of anticipation.

Many people began to subconsciously tidy their appearance, and their eyes involuntarily turned towards the academy gate and the direction of the magnificent carriages that might appear, which even eased their nervousness considerably.

However, the commotion caused by the possibility of the Queen's visit did not last long.

The distant, clear morning bell rang once more, louder and more solemn than before, its sound waves echoing across Florence, as if washing away all noise.

Before the bells had even finished ringing, the two heavy, ancient gates of the National College of Political Science and Law slowly opened inward amidst the low hum of the machinery.

A group of officials dressed in crisp black uniforms with silver trim from the Ministry of Personnel filed out and lined up neatly on the steps at the entrance.

The leading middle-aged official, wearing a silver badge symbolizing the chief examiner, activated a miniature amplification array on his chest.

The clear and loud voice instantly drowned out all the noise in the square, reaching everyone's ears clearly:

"Attention all candidates: Please bring your admission ticket and ID card, line up in order of your examination room number, and undergo inspection before entering the examination room."

No shouting, no crowding, no whispering—violations will result in disqualification!

The crowd fell silent instantly, with only rapid breathing and the rustling of clothes breaking apart.

Immediately, guided by clear and forceful hand gestures from the city defense soldiers maintaining order, thousands of examinees moved swiftly and formed several long, winding, yet orderly lines.

Many people instinctively gripped their document pouches tightly, their faces tense, but the expectation, determination, and anticipation for the future in their eyes shone even brighter in the morning light.

They are about to step into not only the examination hall that will determine their personal future, but also the starting point for participating in the grand cause of this ancient yet newly emerging empire, where a wave of change is stirring beneath the calm surface.

Holding rosters and magic detection equipment, the examination officials began guiding the first batch of candidates through the identity verification array at the academy gate, according to their examination room numbers, to undergo strict checks before entering the examination room.

"Let's go, let's go in!"

Dusen took a deep breath, as if trying to inhale the cool morning air and all his distracting thoughts into his lungs, and then slowly exhale.

He glanced at his classmates one last time and nodded to them.

"come on!"

"Don't be nervous, just play your best!"

"Let's celebrate together after you get your good exam results!"

The relatives and friends who came to see the examinees off, including those who did not register for the exam but came specifically to support them, offered their final blessings, their voices sounding particularly clear in the gradually quieting square.

Du Sen gripped the cloth bag containing his admission ticket and pen tightly, then looked up one last time, gazing deeply at the solemn arched gate of the National College of Political Science and Law, and the eight-character motto above the gate that shone brightly in the morning light: "Understand the law, practice diligently, serve the people, and fulfill responsibilities."

He had recited these eight characters countless times during his morning reading and quoted them in his papers, but now they seemed to have taken on a completely new weight.

He turned around, no longer hesitating, and with firm steps, joined the flow of people entering the venue, carrying countless dreams and ambitions.

The rising sun leaped completely above the horizon, showering Florence with its golden-red rays, which shone on the ancient stone walls of the National College of Law and Politics.

It also illuminated every young and energetic face in the square.

Their pens will rustle and write their personal answers in the days to come.

The choices, struggles, and trajectories of countless individuals will eventually flow like trickles into the surging tide of history in the Kingdom of Effie, collectively shaping the future of this rising nation, whose outline of an empire is already faintly visible.

Whether it's Dusen, who aspires to be in the capital, Eric, who travels to the south for love and ideals, Milan, who chooses to join a top merchant group, or those young people who silently head towards the secret front, or the thousands of other candidates in the square with different dreams.

They are the most vivid and authentic footnotes in this grand narrative of the times!
……

Deep within the college, in the examination affairs center conference room.

The heavy doors shut out the faint noise coming from the square, and the atmosphere inside the room was solemn and heavy, so quiet you could hear a pin drop.

Officials, professors, and senior civil servants from the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Personnel, the Royal Academy of Sciences, and the National College of Law and Politics gathered together for the final verification before the exams.

The long conference table was covered with a dark green velvet cloth, on which were neatly arranged a series of enhancement magic boxes, each containing the exam papers.

Each box corresponds to a different exam room and subject.

The mages are using detection instruments to conduct a final, comprehensive scan of the box to ensure the seal is intact and there are no abnormal magical fluctuations or signs of physical intrusion.

The chief inspector sent by the Ministry of the Interior was a middle-aged man with a stern face, who was tracing the thick examination procedures manual line by line with his finger.

He confirmed with the other department heads in a flat, monotone voice:

"The identity verification array has a stable energy supply and is connected in parallel with the monitoring node of the Royal Capital Grand Mage Tower. The recording function is enabled 24/7..."

Anti-peeping and anti-sound transmission magical barriers cover all examination rooms; any unauthorized supernatural fluctuations will trigger an alarm and mark the location...

The emergency medical team, order maintenance team, and anti-cheating emergency response team are all in place and ready to respond to signals from the chief examiners in each examination room at any time…

The person in charge of this examination from the Ministry of Personnel was a female official wearing gold-rimmed glasses, standing in front of several shimmering crystal screens.

The screen scrolled rapidly through briefings on the preparation status of test centers in the capital and major provinces across the country.

"...70% of the candidates have entered the examination hall at the Florence test center, and the order is good... The Northern Capital reports that the monitoring array has been fully activated, and the Governor of the North and the Director of Education have arrived at the control room."

At the examination site in Fallen Rock City in the Southern Territory, the personal guard dispatched by Duchess Asna, the Red Dragon, has taken over the outer perimeter security, while the internal invigilation is being conducted jointly by our department and the province…” (End of this chapter)