Extraordinary Rise: Starting Contract with the Silver Dragon Countess

When Basil saw that even Leam's mediation couldn't sway Asuna in the slightest, his last shred of hope was completely shattered.

He let out a piercing wail and struggled to lunge at Asuna, but was held down firmly by two military police officers.

The sound was distorted and warped by extreme fear:
"no no!
"Your Excellency, have mercy! Please forgive me this once!"

My mother is Eleanor Corleone, a royal princess.

My maternal grandfather was Prince Gerald, a prince who made great contributions in battle!
Please, for their sake, give me a chance!

My mother will be here soon, and she will definitely repay you handsomely!

However, faced with his desperate pleas, Asuna simply uttered a single word:

"kill."

This word was like a final verdict, shattering all of Basil's psychological defenses.

His eyes bulged outwards, bloodshot, and his face showed extreme madness and despair. His voice became shrill and piercing, filled with hysterical resentment.

"You...you can't kill me."

I am one of Corleone's men!
"The noble blood of Corleone flows in my veins!"

In a fit of extreme fear and anger, he spoke recklessly:

"Who do you think you are, a woman who climbed to the top by using her body?"

What right do you have to kill members of the Corleone family!

"If you dare kill me, my mother will never forgive you!"

The moment his vicious curse was uttered—

A chilling voice abruptly interrupted him:
"Is that so? I'd like to see how Elene is going to make things difficult for my woman!"

My woman!
Upon hearing the sound, everyone trembled violently, their faces showing disbelief!

They all turned their heads in unison to look at the source of the sound.

At the entrance to the operations room, a tall and imposing figure had appeared out of nowhere.

He wasn't wearing a magnificent royal robe, but just a simple black military uniform.

But that young and handsome face exuded a domineering, unquestionable kingly aura.

Cohen Corleone, the supreme ruler of Effie and the conqueror of this land.

"Your Majesty... Your Majesty!"

I don't know who was the first to let out a gasp of awe.

The next second, all the officers and staff in the entire operations room, including Leam, whose face was ashen, were stunned.

They all knelt on one knee in unison, bowing their heads to the figure with the utmost respect.

"See Your Majesty!"

The unified sound echoed in the operations room.

At this moment, Basil was completely frozen.

His eyes were wide open like copper bells, and his pupils shrank to the size of pinpoints due to extreme fear.

He looked at the figure at the door, then looked incredulously at the Red Dragon Duchess who was slowly rising from the main seat, a faint smile playing on her lips.

He finally realized who he had just insulted!
I finally realized just how stupid and unforgivable the mistake I had made!

"no no!"

He let out a desperate whimper and collapsed like a lump of mud.

The war room was filled with a deathly silence, and the imposing figure standing like a mountain at the door.

When he looked at Asuna, there was a hint of tenderness in his eyes that was almost imperceptible.

Cohen's gaze, like a cold blade, slowly swept over Basil, who lay slumped on the ground.

He certainly hadn't expected to witness such a scene so soon after arriving at the front lines, but he wasn't particularly moved.

With such a large and diverse family, it's perfectly normal for a few good-for-nothings to emerge.

His gaze lingered for a moment on Basil's face, contorted with fear, his voice calm yet carrying a chilling authority:

"Judging from your age, you are only in your early twenties, and your cultivation level has not even reached the Silver Rank."

Yet he managed to rise to the rank of major regimental commander in the expeditionary force.

The surname 'Corleone' from your mother has already given you enough 'care'.

Yet they remain so ungrateful and unrestrained.

That's just asking for trouble!

The last four words, like a final verdict, struck Basil's heart heavily.

Cohen abruptly turned his head, looking at the two somewhat bewildered military police, his eyes sharp as an eagle's:
"What are you all standing there for?
Didn't you hear the Grand Duke's order?
Take him out and execute him according to military law!

Inform the entire army of this incident as a warning to others!

No one dared to be negligent in the slightest.

The two military policemen shuddered and immediately grabbed Basil, who had completely collapsed into a puddle of mud, from both sides like iron clamps, and dragged her out the door without any mercy!

"No—! Your Majesty! Spare me!"

Basil let out a pig-like scream, a sound filled with despair and fear that instantly shattered the silence of the operations room and echoed throughout the corridor.

But soon, the wailing stopped abruptly.

Meanwhile, in the operations room.

Asuna's entire focus was no longer on that insignificant, dying man.

From the moment Cohen appeared at the door, her heart, as fiery and proud as a red dragon, was completely bound to him.

Looking at his tall and upright figure and listening to his authoritative voice, I felt an indescribable joy welling up in my heart.

It is an immense sense of happiness that is being protected, cherished, and supported without reservation.

She could even feel her blood rushing through her veins and her skin feeling slightly hot.

An almost instinctive desire welled up from the depths of her heart.

At this moment, all she wanted was to cast aside all the constraints of identity, status, and military duties, throw herself into his arms, and completely merge herself into his body with all her passion and love.

The senior officers in the operations room stepped forward and saluted Cohen.

Leam Richards then knelt heavily on one knee with a thud, his face pale with extreme tension, his voice trembling almost imperceptibly.
"Your Majesty, I was momentarily confused and failed to distinguish right from wrong. I almost let personal matters interfere with public duty and committed a grave mistake!"

He lowered his head deeply, not daring to meet Cohen's gaze.

Cohen looked at him quietly, without responding immediately.

A moment of silence is more suffocating than any rebuke.

Cohen finally spoke when Leam was almost breathless with fear, his tone unreadable:
"Lianham Richard."

If I remember correctly, you come from the Richard family of the East.

Your uncle is the current Marquis Richard.

This seemingly casual remark sent a shiver down Leam's spine; His Majesty knew so much about his family background.

His head drooped even lower, his face burning with shame and fear.
Yes, yes!
Your Majesty is wise!

Princess Elene has indeed maintained a relatively close relationship with our family since she married into the Eastern Kingdom.

That's when I lost my mind for a moment, and out of consideration for our past relationship, I said a few foolish things on his behalf.

However, Your Majesty! I have absolutely no private dealings with that scoundrel, Basil.

I had no idea he would stoop to this level!

As he spoke, he hurriedly pulled out a stack of well-preserved letters from his storage magic equipment, holding them high with both hands:

"All the letters Princess Elene sent me are here."

Her letter was simply a repeated request for me to look after her son's safety to the best of my ability; she meant absolutely nothing else.

We truly had no secret collusion whatsoever, Your Majesty, please see the truth!

Cohen looked at Leam, who was kneeling on the ground, covered in cold sweat, and couldn't help but find his panicked appearance, which was eager to explain himself, amusing.

He waved his hand slightly and said meaningfully:
"Alright, get up. Just be more careful next time."

For some people and some things, if the relationship is right, perhaps we can try to protect them to the best of our ability.

However, some people should avoid standing out recklessly, lest they get burned.

Working under me, as long as you are loyal and capable, you'll have a future without needing connections!

These seemingly casual words struck Leam and all the officers present like a heavy hammer blow.

This warning was not only directed at Leam, but at everyone present.

"Yes Yes!"

Liam, feeling as if granted a pardon, immediately kowtowed deeply, his voice trembling with relief:
"Your Majesty's teachings will be heeded! I will deeply reflect on my actions and never repeat them!"

He then respectfully retreated to the back of the crowd, not daring to utter another word.

After Leam left.

A tall, upright officer with the insignia of a lieutenant general on his epaulets stepped forward with steady strides.

It was Beau Angelon, the deputy commander of the expeditionary force and former commander of the Southern Military District.

With deep remorse on his face, he solemnly saluted Cohen:
"Your Majesty, it is all my fault for poor leadership and lax discipline in managing the army."

That's why such disgraceful things can happen in the military; I'm sorry you had to see that."

When facing Beo Angelen, Cohen's originally cold expression softened slightly.

It wasn't just because Beo himself was exceptionally capable and loyal.

Furthermore, it was because he came from the Angraine family, a newly wealthy family that shared the same bloodline as Queen Adele and had risen rapidly in the last two or three decades.

This family is a model in shaping family traditions.

On the one hand, it is due to the fact that the head of the family, Prime Minister Angus Angrayn, governs his family as strictly as he governs the country.

On the other hand, it was also because of Adel's explicit prohibitions and strict restrictions on the children of her clan.

The Queen's sister has always been intolerant of injustice, being strict not only with foreign officials but also showing no mercy to her own family members.

Therefore, among the younger generation of the Angrayn family, there are no despicable individuals like Basil.

On the contrary, most of them are like Beo in front of them, possessing both excellent abilities and character.

Beo's exceptional abilities and unwavering loyalty during his time as commander in the Southern Reach were truly impressive.

This is why Asuna chose Beo as her deputy when she was setting up the expeditionary force command.

A faint smile appeared on Cohen's lips as he glanced at the respectful-looking General Beo and said slowly:
"It is inevitable that a few scoundrels will emerge in such a large army."

This has little to do with the general's leadership.

He paused slightly, a hint of approval flashing in his eyes:

"Prime Minister Angus specifically mentioned this to me before."

General Beo devoted himself wholeheartedly to the front lines and made outstanding contributions.

It brought honor to the Queen, the Prime Minister, and the Angrayn family.

Upon hearing His Majesty the King personally praise the Prime Minister, Beo immediately bowed even lower, his face showing a look of trepidation.
"Your Majesty is too kind. All of this is thanks to His Highness the Grand Duke's excellent leadership."

"I merely lent a little assistance from the sidelines." He cleverly attributed the credit to Asuna, then skillfully changed the subject:

"Your Majesty, why didn't you give us advance notice of your upcoming visit?"
This will allow us to prepare for the welcoming ceremony.

Cohen chuckled and said:

"It was a spur-of-the-moment decision; I just came to take a look around."

Beo, being such a shrewd man, immediately and cautiously probed:

"Your Majesty, how would you like to arrange the next part of the itinerary?"

"Should we first inspect the situation of each unit, or...?"

Cohen's gaze slowly swept across the room, revealing no particular emotional inclination.

Nothing particularly serious.

However, there are some things I need to discuss with your commander privately.

Everyone, please don't be shy, just go about your business as usual!
These seemingly casual words, when heard by these seasoned officials, were nothing less than a clear and unambiguous instruction!
How could I possibly continue doing what I was supposed to do?
Unless they're out of their minds, they wouldn't stay here as an eyesore.

After all, although everyone in this expeditionary force outwardly addressed Asuna as "Grand Duke" or "Commander,"

But in private, the title "Red Dragon Princess" is more popular.

At this moment, His Majesty the King suddenly appeared at the front line and made it clear that he wanted to "talk alone".

The implications are self-evident.

"Yes! Your Majesty!"

General Beo immediately understood, bowed first, and responded in a loud voice.

Then he strode out of the command room.

The other officers also reacted immediately.

In less than a minute, the once bustling operations room was left with only Cohen and Asuna.

Once everyone was alone, Asuna hugged him tightly, pressing her rosy lips to Cohen's, as if to pour out all her longing.

……

The operations room is ultimately a solemn and serious military place, and even if feelings are strong, it is not appropriate to act too recklessly.

Cohen reached out and gently straightened Asuna's collar, which had become slightly disheveled from the excited hug.

Fingertips gently brushed across her cheek
"You've had a tough time these past few days. Once the fighting here is over, go back and get some rest."

Asuna felt the warmth from his fingertips, and a charming smile involuntarily curved her lips.

"Your words are enough."

Isn't the war in Serene about to begin soon?
"When do we people ever truly have a moment to rest?"

Upon hearing this, Cohen's eyes showed even greater affection, and he reached out to lovingly ruffle Asuna's chestnut-brown, cascading hair.
"Has Jialin not arrived yet?"

Asuna naturally understood Cohen's main purpose for coming, and nodded slightly:
"She led the Starburst Clan's army to wipe out the remaining forces in northern Ceylon."

"If you spread things out too far, you have to clean up all the mess before you can come back."

As she spoke, she suddenly raised her eyes, a hint of provocation flashing in them:

"how?

"It's a rare opportunity for the two of you to be alone, and you're unwilling?"

Cohen couldn't help but laugh when he saw her showing such a rare girlish side.

"How could that be? It's just that this isn't the place to talk."

Come on, I'll take you to a great place!

Asuna had not been close to her beloved for a long time, and at this moment, an irrepressible longing was surging in her heart.

She obediently let Cohen lead her.

They walked into a space that belonged only to the two of them, a space filled with warmth and privacy...

……

The morning light of Ironforge streamed through the tall arched windows, casting its glow onto the marble floor of the council chamber.

On the second day after Cohen's arrival, Garlin, who had been leading her people on campaigns abroad, arrived.

Finally, he returned, weary from his journey, with several elders of the Starburst Clan.

The moment Jialin appeared at the entrance of the hall, it seemed to brighten up the somewhat dim hall.

The last time the two met was half a year ago when they discussed cooperation with the Five Wings family.

Time flies, it feels like a lifetime ago.

Jialin remained as aloof and pure as ever.

Her long hair was simply tied back, revealing her smooth forehead and eyes that seemed to hold the stars and the sea.

Several elders dressed in the traditional attire of the Star Clan followed him, their auras restrained yet powerful; they were none other than "Star Envoys," equivalent to legendary-level superhumans.

One of them was a middle-aged man with a refined appearance and sharp eyes.

It was Valan Colt, the First Star Envoy whom Cohen was quite familiar with.

After a brief exchange of pleasantries.

Valan Colt stepped forward, his face beaming with genuine joy, and bowed deeply to Cohen with the highest Starbringer salute.

"Your Holiness, thank you!"
Thank you for your continued support and great help!
With your help, our Starburst Clan has finally regained its own army and a foothold of power!

Seeing his excited expression, Cohen smiled gently.

"Valan Star Envoy, there's no need for such politeness; this is part of our cooperation."

"Since you call me Holy Son, I cannot let my people down, can I?"

He paused slightly, his gaze slowly sweeping over each of the Star Envoys present, and he unconsciously raised his voice:
"The war in Ceylon is only the beginning."

When the war here ends, that will be the time for your Starburst Clan to truly step onto the stage of history.

"At that time, the vast territory of the entire Kingdom of Serene will become the cornerstone for your Starburst Clan to rebuild your Starshine Kingdom!"

The entire territory of the Kingdom of Serene!

This promise struck like a thunderbolt in the hearts of the star envoys.

Even Jia Lin, who was usually aloof and composed, couldn't help but let a ripple flicker in her usually calm eyes.

The star envoys beside her were even more excited, their eyes blazing with intense passion and excitement.

Thousands of years of exile and waiting!
Finally, today we see the dawn of national restoration!
Moreover, it is based on the territory of a kingdom!

How could this not excite them!

Cohen watched them quietly, a smile still on his face.

He knew the weight of this "hope" and the power it would bring to the Star Clan.

This is exactly what he needs, and only in this way will they be willing to end the war in the Kingdom of Ceylon as soon as possible.

Jialin's cool gaze swept lightly over Cohen, her lips slightly pursed, and she coughed lightly, saying:

"You're in such a hurry to see me, there must be something important you need to take care of."

Cohen responded with a smile:
"Indeed, the moment of decisive battle with the Kingdom of Ceylon is fast approaching."

I need the strong support of your Starburst Clan's high-level combat forces.

"Once we win this final battle, we can immediately begin our full-scale conquest of the Kingdom of Serene!"

Valan Colt, unable to contain his excitement any longer, stepped forward and said in a loud voice:
"Then what are we waiting for?"

"Your Holiness, please give us, the Starburst Clan, whatever you require of us!"

Cohen smiled calmly as he looked at his eager expression.

Instead of beating around the bush, King Gaius revealed his trump card and battle plan in its entirety.

When I heard the number "six saints".

Even Jia Lin, who was always aloof and composed, couldn't help but let a subtle, unseen glint flash in her eyes.

The voice remained steady, but a faint hint of emotion crept into it:

"Six sages, no wonder it is the strongest country on the continent."

Gaius's trump cards are indeed not to be underestimated.

Valan, standing to the side, nodded slowly, a solemn expression on his face.

His tone became cautious:

"His Majesty requires us to dispatch five Star Lords, but the matter itself is not difficult."

He paused slightly, a deep concern flashing in his eyes.

"However, this means that our Starburst Clan will officially appear on the human continent's stage."

Won't this cause some unnecessary trouble?

After all, the Star Clan has been in hiding for far too long.

Moreover, tens of thousands of years ago, they even competed with humans for dominance over this continent.

Its sudden appearance in such a powerful manner is bound to disrupt the existing balance of power and arouse vigilance and suspicion from all sides.

It might even alert some ancient beings hidden behind the scenes.

Jialin slowly turned her gaze to Cohen, clearly waiting for his answer.

Cohen's gaze swept over the hesitant faces of the crowd, and he said confidently:
There's no need to worry about this.

I will immediately contact the supreme rulers of the Central Empire, the Eastern Empire, and the Western Empire.

To persuade these three emperors.

As long as these three great empires are willing to stand up for us, then the reappearance of the Star Clan will be legitimate and there will be no problems.

Moreover, tens of thousands of years have passed; even the greatest grudges should have faded away by now.

Three great empires stand together!

This promise acted like a powerful stimulant, instantly instilling a strong sense of confidence in every Star Envoy present.

The humiliation and waiting suppressed for tens of thousands of years, the loneliness and anticipation hidden for countless centuries.

At this moment, it finally transformed into an uncontrollable excitement and ecstasy.

They can finally stop hiding in the shadows.

Finally, we can stand proudly on this continent again in the name of the "Star Clan"!

The official business has been settled.

The star envoys exchanged knowing glances.

He tactfully bowed to Cohen and Jialin, then quietly withdrew from the council chamber.

This space was left entirely to Cohen and their saintess.

In their eyes, Cohen was not only the king of Effie, but also the holy son of their Starbringer Clan.

His union with Saintess Carin was predestined, a future already written in the trajectory of the stars.

Now that the two were finally alone, they naturally had many private things to discuss that they couldn't tell outsiders. (End of Chapter)