33 Ceremony 1 (1/2)

From morning till noon, the training grounds underwent a transformation as a stage was set up and streamers adorned the area.

Food were prepared and laid out in a sumptuous manner of the tables as the various castle and military personnel gathered.

The area was packed tight with knots of people discussing the conferment for the day and the main subject- which are the grade 5 cores.

The common theme amongst the civil officials would be why are the foreigners being given preferential treatments in terms of rewards conferment but the military personnel were far more interested in the application of grade 5 monster cores on the battlefield as well as the potential users behind them.

Various officers can be seen milling about the companies they commanded as they partook of the festivities.

The main stars of the act were back in the castle's main hall with Edward and a grey mustached man who was explaining the various ceremonial forms of the Empire to the three.

Caine and Edward were struggling to pay attention and tried various means to perk themselves up when the master of ceremonies went through the key points. Tiffany simply gave up straight away and asked Caine to give her a refresher and proceeded to have a glazed eyed look throughout the entire narration.

Aureus, Tarin and Johan entered and upon apprehending the scene, all three gave a silent chuckle. Having been versed in the ceremonial forms since their youth, it was rather refreshing to see people foreign to it trying to adapt themselves to the said forms.

”Highness, it is a pity that we were unable to hold the bestowing ceremony as a slightly later date. Calvus and Denter will return in three days time. It would appear they have not failed in their assigned task and have performed commendably. It would be good to award them in public if there was a chance. ” Tarin opened up as they strode down the length of the hall to approach the mages.

”Agreed. Though I highly doubt that Calvus or Denter are interested in any medals and the like. Moreover, the purpose of the army is to defend the Empire and her people. Not chasing after bits of metal to adorn one's chest. I am sure they will be fine.” Aureus was nodding as he replied to Tarin.

”I would agree with his highness on this count. Calvus and Denter are both of a known quality amongst the ones whom need to know. Conferring them in public will have a minimal effect on confidence since they are already widely known for being competent.” Johan piped up from the side.

”I would argue it is not the rewards themselves that are important. It is the act of recognition that comes from a higher authority. That will always create a good setting for meritorious achievements to flourish.” Tarin replied.

”Yes, unfortunately we are constrained by Father time. Shortly after they return, we will need to set out for the contested lands. The timing is simply too tight this time around.” Aureus said as they reached the mages and Edward.

”Having fun?” Tarin asked the three being tutored.

All three shook their head.

Aureus gave a half grin as he requested that they bolster themselves for the show as it is considered an unfortunate but highly necessary part of the Empire. The master of ceremonies curled his lips at Aureus's comments but he did not make a single objection.

”Blake, do not worry. It is the job that is unfortunate and necessary, not the man that does it.” Aureus's grin grew wider.

”Highness, why do I feel as if you have just praised me and not praise me at the same time?” Blake replied in a courteous manner.

”Ahh, a man of deep thoughts. Highly suitable to be the master of ceremonies. Well appointed, my man.”

”Highness, I give up.” Blake stared towards the ceiling before replying.

Aureus clapped Blake on the shoulders before moving past the party and heading towards the training grounds. Tarin and Johan both gave a wide grin to the ones being mentored before proceeding to follow Aureus out.

—

As Aureus proceeded to the stage, many saluted him on his way.

At the stage, the senior officers of the Aureus army converged and Aureus asked after their healths and jobs as he made his way through the various officers.

As the sun reached the zenith, several castle mages cast a cooling spell over the entire training grounds.

Several moments after that, Blake entered the training grounds and made a beeline for the backstage.

Taking it as a cue, Aureus dismissed the officers and made his way to the backstage as well.