Extraordinary Rise: Starting Contract with the Silver Dragon Countess

The dean of the National College of Political Science and Law stood solemnly at the front of the room, his gaze sweeping over each of his colleagues present, and slowly began to speak:
"Ladies and gentlemen, what we are protecting today is not just an exam, but also the embodiment of the kingdom's national policy of 'selecting the best and promoting fairness and progress'."

It is the gateway of hope for countless students from impoverished backgrounds and even outstanding talents from other ethnic groups to change their destiny and serve their country.

His Majesty and the Cabinet have high hopes for this, and the people are also watching closely.

I urge everyone to fulfill their duties diligently and not fail in their trust.

The crowd was awestruck and responded in unison.

The atmosphere grew increasingly heavy, creating a peculiar resonance with the restlessness and hope of the young examinees outside the window.

……

Florence, the Royal Palace Council Hall.

In contrast to the solemnity of the examination hall and the tension of the examination administration center, the royal palace appeared more dignified and magnificent.

On the throne, Queen Adel Angelon of Efein sat regally, not wearing any elaborate court attire or crown, but simply an elegant silver-white palace dress, her beautiful face bearing its usual serenity.

However, the faint aura of legendary status emanating from the surroundings made the air inside this magnificent hall seem solemn.

Below the throne, Prime Minister Angus, along with ministers, senior government officials, and noble representatives qualified to participate in court discussions, stood solemnly on either side according to their rank.

Yadel looked at the Deputy Minister of Personnel, who was in charge of the overall coordination of this recruitment examination, and said in a deep voice:

"Today's exam is crucial to the future foundation of the nation's officials. How are the monitoring arrays at the test centers across the country functioning?"

In addition to the usual monitoring of mana and magic fluctuations, the magic array must cover all examination rooms without any blind spots.

Examination staff must wear accessories to prevent mind spying and suggestion, and the exam papers themselves must have anti-prophecy, anti-copying, and anti-spying properties.

What I demand is absolute fairness; I will not allow even the slightest bit of cheating or favoritism.

Her tone was calm, yet carried an undeniable force.

Everyone present knew that Her Majesty the Queen was always meticulous, especially when it came to the selection system, which was fundamental to the kingdom, and she was absolutely intolerant of any flaws.

Upon hearing Adele's question, an elderly minister with gray hair and a sharp, capable expression immediately stepped forward, bowed, and replied in a steady and powerful voice:

"Your Highness, the monitoring arrays at the examination sites in the capital and major provincial capitals were all finalized and activated before midnight yesterday."

Energy supply is guaranteed by both local mage towers and the Grand City Hall, and there is also a backup magic crystal array.

The video surveillance network has also been connected to the central control rooms of each examination center and the central monitoring hall of the Ministry of Personnel and the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Beijing.

All examination staff, including invigilators, proctors, logistics personnel, and security personnel, have undergone special vetting and are wearing protective amulets.

He paused, then continued his report, his tone becoming even more serious:

"To prevent local officials from becoming complacent or to prevent collusion among individuals, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Personnel have jointly established thirty 'special inspection teams'."

The team, composed of elite agents from two departments, observers from the Royal Academy of Sciences, and members of the Military Intelligence Bureau's action group, secretly departed last night for major provinces and some secondary examination centers across the country.

Randomly checking examination rooms, reviewing invigilation records, and questioning invigilators are all measures taken to curb cheating to the greatest extent possible.

Furthermore, provincial governors and education commissioners have received strict orders to personally inspect and supervise the front lines; those who neglect their duties will be severely punished.

After listening carefully, a hint of approval flashed in her beautiful eyes, and she nodded slightly.

"Very good, very well thought out."

She paused briefly, her gaze sweeping over the assembled officials, before uttering a decision that caused everyone to pause in surprise:

"Since you have set up a special inspection team, I will personally lead a team today to randomly select an examination site for inspection."

This is both an inspection of the examination administration and a declaration to the nation of the royal family of the seriousness with which the examination is being conducted.

A very faint commotion arose in the hall.

This was the first time ever that Her Majesty the Queen had personally inspected the examination hall.

Its symbolic significance and actual deterrent power are self-evident.

Several senior officials quickly exchanged glances. No one raised any objections. On the contrary, they felt that the event was effective and better reflected the serious attitude of the entire kingdom towards this national examination.

The ministers responded in unison:

"I will obey Your Highness's decree."

……

An hour later, in the southeastern district of the capital, outside the "Tower of Knowledge" Public Academy, a medium-sized comprehensive examination center, an unprecedented surprise awaited them.

Outside the gate, there was no grand procession or prior announcement.

But when Adele stepped down from the carriage, her stunning beauty and unique noble demeanor, like a bright moon suddenly shining in the darkness, instantly attracted the attention of everyone nearby.

"What a beautiful noble lady! Are you here to take the exam too?"

"Damn it, what nonsense are you spouting? This...this is Her Majesty the Queen!"

First came a low gasp of disbelief, then ripples spread rapidly, like a pebble thrown into a calm lake.

Whether it was the small number of family members who stayed at the college gate to see their children off to the exam, the soldiers maintaining order, or the passersby who were attracted by the commotion, everyone was caught up in the excitement and commotion.

"My God, it really is His Highness! He's even more beautiful than the legends say!"

"Is Your Highness here to inspect the examination venue? It's such an honor!"

"Look! Over there!"

The crowd instantly became excited, and many people involuntarily surged forward, eager to catch a glimpse of the Queen.

The young students, in particular, were so excited that their faces turned bright red.

The pressure on the city's defense soldiers maintaining order increased sharply, forcing them to reinforce the perimeter and firmly dissuade the overly agitated crowd.

Adele stepped down from the carriage, escorted by the chief of the royal guards.

Although she dressed as simply as possible today and wore no excessive jewelry, her naturally stunning beauty and extraordinary temperament still caused a sensation the moment she appeared.

She nodded slightly to the crowd, which sparked even louder cheers.

Ardelle entered the college accompanied by the Minister of Personnel and senior officials from the Ministry of the Interior.

The main officials of the examination center rushed out to greet her, but Yadel did not exchange many pleasantries and went straight to request to see the core examination area—the central control and monitoring room.

In the central control and monitoring room, dozens of screens are divided on a huge crystal wall, displaying the internal situation of each examination room in real time.

Most of the candidates were already seated, and the invigilators were reading out the examination rules.

Yadel carefully observed the screen, inquired about the monitoring array's operational data, and randomly retrieved video recordings from several examination rooms to check for any abnormal fluctuations.

During the inspection, Adele's presence became the biggest "disruption".

Although she deliberately traveled light and dressed as modestly as possible today.

However, the combination of the halo of "the most beautiful woman on the mainland" and the status of queen still caused an unparalleled sensation.

Wherever she went, whether it was examination officials, invigilators, or candidates who hadn't yet started the exam but saw her through windows or door cracks, everyone was filled with excitement and found it impossible to concentrate.

The young candidates, in particular, were so excited to see Her Majesty the Queen in person that they were almost unable to contain themselves, and some were even warned by the proctors for looking around too often.

The accompanying Deputy Minister of Personnel and Chief of Staff immediately stepped forward to try to maintain order, but the crowd's enthusiasm was difficult to quell immediately.

Noticing this, Adele frowned slightly.

Her intention was to supervise and encourage, but if her arrival affected the seriousness of the exam and the candidates' state of mind, then it would defeat the purpose.

Without further hesitation, Adele whispered a few instructions to the Minister of Personnel beside her, then returned to the carriage within the protective circle quickly formed by the guards, and quietly returned to the palace amidst the respectful farewells of the crowd.

This unexpected inspection, though it caused a sensation due to Adele's appearance, had to be ended prematurely.

However, Adele has already achieved her original intention. Not only does it demonstrate the royal family's extreme emphasis on the fairness of the examination, but her decisive departure to avoid disturbing the candidates adds a touch of compassion and pragmatism to the story.

It quickly spread through word of mouth and the capital's efficient media network.

Back in the majestic and solemn palace, Adele did not rest for long. After a simple lunch, she presided over the routine afternoon political meeting.

In the imperial court, ministers from various departments reported on important matters in turn, from the initial governance of the newly incorporated territories in the northwest to the progress of spring plowing in the country, and then to diplomatic briefings with other forces on the mainland. Everything seemed to be in an orderly manner.

However, beneath the seemingly orderly chorus, an undercurrent is quietly surging.

After the Minister of Home Affairs finished reporting on the preliminary plan for the selection of grassroots officials in the new territories, a Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs from a prominent southern noble family, after receiving subtle encouraging glances from several colleagues, cleared his throat, stepped forward, and bowed.

This vice-minister, a highly experienced official with some marriage ties to the Corleone family, spoke respectfully after receiving a signal from Adele:

"Your Highness, now that my army is at the forefront, all the heroes are subdued, and all nations follow the alliance."

Its vast territory and immense influence are comparable to any country on the mainland.

Shouldn't we, Effie, also change our title?

His words were not explicitly stated, but those in the hall with even a slight political sense understood the implied meaning.

This is a proposal to elevate Eifine to the status of an Empire, paving the way for Cohen's coronation as Emperor.

A brief silence fell over the hall upon hearing this, followed by a murmur of agreement and discussion. Many ministers, especially those from traditional noble families or generals and officials who had recently gained benefits in new territories, had eager glints in their eyes.

empire!

This is not merely a change of title; it signifies a broader territory, a more centralized power structure, a more lucrative distribution of benefits, and... the historical renown and honor these individuals can attain as "founding heroes."

Immediately, several ministers, especially those from the military and some radical reformist bureaucrats, echoed this sentiment with eager eyes.

"Your Excellency is absolutely right. The territory and population that the kingdom actually controls today have already reached or even exceeded the scale of many empires at their peak in history!"

"If the name is not correct, the words will not be proper. If we can follow the will of Heaven and the people, and be upgraded to an empire, thus establishing a proper name and status, we can better unite the people and awe all sides!"

"His Majesty is renowned for his military prowess, expanding the territory he has conquered. Her Highness the Queen is wise and benevolent, governing the country with skill. This is the time when Heaven's mandate is in his favor and the people's hearts are with him!"

Even a high-ranking general, known for his straightforward nature and hailing from a newly emerging military aristocracy, bowed directly to Adele on the throne in a moment of excitement:

"Your Majesty, I believe this matter should be put on the agenda and preparations should be made as soon as possible to reassure the people!"

The mention of the word "Empress" caused an uproar.

All eyes instantly focused on Adel, who sat on the throne.

Adele listened calmly, her beautiful face expressionless, her gaze steadily sweeping over the ministers in the hall, taking in their expressions of eagerness, probing, unease, and deep thought.

After a moment of silence, Adele slowly spoke:
“The upgrading of a nation is a major event, concerning the national system, legal system, public sentiment, and relations with other states. It must be handled with utmost care.”

I will take note of your suggestions and will report them in detail when His Majesty returns, so that we can discuss them further.

The most urgent task at hand is to consolidate existing gains, properly settle the new lands, and prepare for the changes brought about by the 'Covenant of the Gods.' I urge all ministers to fulfill their duties and refrain from any other thoughts…”

……

In the dead of night, all was quiet.

Deep within the royal palace, the soft glow of magical lamps still illuminated Adele's chambers.

Instead of contacting Cohen, who was far away on the northwestern front, as she had said at the morning meeting, she took out an antique-looking black communication stone from Cohen's bedside table.

A trace of pure magic was infused into it, and the communication stone trembled slightly, its surface shimmering with a faint, watery light, as it began to search for and connect to a specific, distant frequency.

Deep within the palace of the Central Empire, Xenias, who was handling state affairs, suddenly felt an unfamiliar connection request coming from a special communication stone she kept close to her body.

This communication stone is a special communication stone between her and Cohen. Cohen is probably the only person in the world who knows how to contact her through this frequency.

However, the connection fluctuations coming from the communication stone at this moment, although successfully matching this top-secret frequency band, were definitely not from Cohen!
Shanis's heart skipped a beat. Who was it?

She sensed it carefully and actually felt a sense of familiarity from the magical fluctuations.

and many more!

Xenias's body jolted, her eyes widening in disbelief as she stared at the communication stone.

The floodgates of memory burst open, and time flowed back more than ten years to the finals of the Noble Martial Arts Festival.

At that time, she was the most dazzling princess of the Central Empire, with unparalleled talent, loved by all, and regarded as the undisputed leader of the younger generation.

He was just one step away from the title of "Strongest Silver," which represented the strongest player in his tier.

However, amidst the intense public scrutiny, just as she was brimming with confidence and preparing for her coronation...

A peerless figure, with impeccable, almost artistic grace, effortlessly yet absolutely overwhelming strength, shattered all her pride, all her glory, and all her confidence before everyone's eyes.

That battle became the most profound humiliation and turning point in her life, and it also cemented the opponent's reputation as "the most beautiful woman on the mainland" and "invincible among her peers".

Adele Angelion!
There's no mistake, this aloof, noble, and powerful magical aura that instills despair in its peers... Yes, it's her!
Queen of Effie, wife of Cohen Corleone, Adele!
Even after all these years, and even though she has ascended the throne and ruled over a vast territory, that sense of defeat and complex emotions remains like a deep-seated mark, never completely erased.

And now, this woman, who in some ways could be considered her rival in love, has actually taken the initiative to contact her through this top-secret channel that should only belong to her and Cohen.
How did she know about this communication frequency? Did Cohen tell her, or did she find out it through some unknown means?
Why did she contact me first?

Is it showing off, a demonstration, or is it because of Cohen...?

Countless thoughts flashed through Shanis's mind in an instant: shock, vigilance, doubt, and a complex knot in her heart that she herself was unwilling to admit, a knot that had been there for a long time for that dazzling figure.

The shame of past defeats, and the subtle connection of current identities.

Her exquisite face was filled with complex emotions, and her slender fingers slowly tightened their grip on the slightly warm communication stone.

Shanis took a deep breath, forcing herself to calm down from the sudden surge of emotions.

She is the Empress of the Central Empire, wielding power and ruling over all, no longer the proud but vulnerable princess she once was.

Regardless of their intentions, she had to respond as if she were an empress.

A surge of powerful magic erupted from his fingertips, fully activating the special communication stone before him.

A pale purple glow rippled outwards like water, gradually gathering within the palace.

Finally, the outline of a stunning figure was clearly drawn—even across the vast space and through magical projections, the breathtaking beauty and the unique aura that had been tempered by time and power still emanated from her.

A phantom of Adele Angelion floated silently in the halo.

She appeared to be in her own bedroom, with a rather large wardrobe behind her.

Adel wasn't wearing any gorgeous palace attire or dazzling accessories; she was simply dressed in a moon-white everyday outfit.

Her appearance remains breathtakingly perfect; time seems to have left no trace on her, instead adding a touch of gentle, jade-like charm.

Especially those ice-blue eyes, still clear, no longer possessing the sharp edge that once shone on the stage, making people afraid to look directly at them, but instead exuding a calmness and wisdom that seemed to see through everything.

This calm and wisdom only made Shanis's feelings more complicated.

Shanis's expression faltered again.

She has always had absolute confidence in her appearance and demeanor. As the Empress of the Central Empire, her nobility, beauty, and the majesty nurtured by power are enough to make anyone feel inferior in her presence.

But when facing Adele, her pride, which stemmed from her bloodline, power, and her own efforts, seemed to encounter an irresistible barrier.

It's not just the flawless, almost divinely perfect appearance, but also the natural, unadulterated "presence" emanating from the other person, requiring no external embellishment.

She is a legend, one of the youngest legendary figures in history, and the "most beautiful woman on the continent," a title that has remained unchallenged since that highly anticipated showdown more than a decade ago.

Most importantly... she was Cohen Corleone's lawfully wedded queen, who had been by his side for many years.

Even though his so-called "fiancée" was engaged and was the empress of a vast empire, she still seemed to feel somewhat awkward in front of the other party's status as the "official wife".

Thinking about the possible scenarios in the future, a touch of absurd self-mockery even flashed through Shanis's mind.

Is the Empress of the Central Empire really going to bow down to this woman and call her "elder sister"?
This thought made her feel a bit annoyed.

However, to Xenise's slight surprise, Adel's attitude at this moment was unexpected.

In my memory, Adel was cold, powerful, and sharp on the arena of the Noble Martial Arts Festival, like a peerless divine weapon that could decide the outcome of a battle the moment it was drawn, carrying a despairing and condescending dominance.

At this moment, however, she concealed all her outward sharpness during the communication, and her expression was indescribably gentle.

Adele's voice came through the communicator, clear and gentle, as if their famous duel and the complicated relationship that followed because of Cohen were nothing more than trivial memories:

"Your Majesty Klein, it's been a long time."

Shanis quickly suppressed all her superfluous thoughts, put on the Empress's mask, and her beautiful face was now only filled with the calm and majesty of a ruler.

Her purple eyes narrowed slightly as she stared directly at Adele's illusory figure, her tone somewhat unfriendly:

"Your Highness Angryn, contacting me so late, surely it's not just to catch up?"

Adele listened to Xenias's words, which contained a hidden sharpness, her beautiful face remaining calm and composed.

She naturally sensed the subtle hostility and probing in Shanies's words, which were not entirely concealed.

However, she had important business to discuss with the other party today, and it was of great significance, so she didn't want to have any pointless arguments with her.

Automatically ignoring the barb in Shanies's words, he directly addressed the core issue in his usual calm tone:

"Indeed, contacting His Majesty late at night was not for reminiscing."

Today in the imperial court, some ministers have suggested that Effie should follow the trend of the times and be upgraded to an empire.

There have been many rumors circulating about this matter among the public and various forces recently.

I contacted Her Majesty late at night to personally inquire about her views on this matter, as she is currently recognized as the ruler of the most powerful empire in the human world.

Upon hearing this, Shanis raised her eyebrows almost imperceptibly.

She hadn't expected Adele to be so direct, nor had she expected her to discuss such a groundbreaking matter in such a calm tone.

Effie ascends to the Empire?
This is not merely a change of name; it signifies the emergence of a new hegemon on the mainland that is legally, militarily, and influential enough to rival, or even directly challenge, the five great empires.

This is no small matter.

After a moment's thought, a slightly mocking smile appeared on Shanis's lips.

He leaned back slightly, resting against the velvet-covered chair back, his fingertips tapping lightly on the armrest. His tone was slow, yet carried a deliberate air of detachment.

"Oh? Whether Effie is promoted to an empire... Such a crucial matter concerning the foundation of the nation and affecting the continent's格局 (geju, a term referring to the overall situation or structure of the continent), shouldn't it be discussed with me personally by His Majesty the King of your country?"

"Your Highness Angrian, though you are the Queen, is it... a little overstepping your authority to consult with others privately on such diplomatic and national policies?" (End of Chapter)