Wizard starting from shoeing donkeys

Rein took the invitation letter, his heart already faintly guessing what it might entail.

It was a pale cyan invitation, made from no ordinary paper, but what struck Rein the most was the design on its surface: five dragons with different postures, soaring through the sky.

When Rein opened it, he only saw one line of text:

"Rein Carlan is hereby invited to participate in the Sword Bearer selection of the Dragan Empire's Mingster Province three months from now."

Upon closer inspection, at the bottom right-hand corner, there was another line of small text outlining the selection's time and place: the last day of the Month of Vitality, No. 1 Shaded Boulevard, Mingster.

It was indeed an invitation to become a Sword Bearer!

However, the invitation was quite different from what Rein had anticipated.

Initially, Rein thought that receiving the so-called invitation letter would mean immediate membership into the ranks of the Empire's Sword Bearers, but it seemed that was not the case.

It turned out that the meaning of this invitation letter was to invite a person to qualify for the selection process.

This was similar to a production crew from a previous life being invited to a film festival; whether they would win an award was uncertain, but it implied, "Your production has caught the attention of the jury, it stands a good chance of winning an award."

Similarly, this Sword Bearer invitation letter conveyed, "Rein, your performance has been notable, we have taken notice, you might succeed."

Nonetheless, as long as the opportunity was present, Rein believed he could seize it.

On the other hand, the vast majority of people would never have such an opportunity in their lifetime, nor would they come into contact with a Sword Bearer invitation letter.

Even though there were further selections to be made, this was undoubtedly good news.

Two pieces of good news in a row left Rein struggling to hide the excitement in his heart.

At this moment, Viscount Theo, who was nearby, noticed Rein had finished reading the invitation letter, and with a smile, he kindly reminded him:

"Not every newly appointed Knight who receives a commendation is granted a Sword Bearer invitation. Only a few among those who are top-ranked receive such invitations."

"By the way, Rein, perhaps you should take some time soon to think about designing a coat of arms that represents your Baron status."

"A coat of arms?" Rein immediately snapped out of his thoughts and nodded.

He remembered that, like the carriage from the Crawley Baron family that had come to pick him up numerous times, it bore the exclusive emblem of the Crawley family: a kite shield with a rose-like flower on it.

However, according to Jenny, there seemed to be some customary rules to follow when designing a coat of arms.

These rules had gradually become a consensus among the nobility over the many years since the establishment of the Dragan Empire.

For example, images like lions and crowns were typically not included in the coat of arms design of families that were not Dukes or Marquises, let alone those of a lower status.

For example, a shield in the coat of arms might signify that the family's combat skill is renowned for a particular shield technique, of course, it could also indicate sword and shield or hammer and shield combat skills, etc.

But if your family is not proficient in shield-related combat skills, yet you use a shield as the emblem, it would be ridiculed by other nobles.

Upon reflection, Rein thought he would need to consult with the Crawley Baron's wife or Jenny upon his return.

"Indeed, you have plenty of time, Rein. Once you have decided, you can submit it," Viscount Theo added.

"There is another matter. On the last Sunday of the Month of Green Grass, new Barons and Viscounts within Mingster Province of the past year need to go to the provincial capital Mingster, to receive formal ennoblement by the Duke of Mingster."

"Of course, this is merely an ennoblement ceremony. You, Rein, are already a Baron and can enjoy all the privileges that come with the title."

"The Duke of Mingster simply represents His Majesty the Emperor in conferring the titles upon you; you are swearing allegiance to His Majesty the Emperor and the Empire."

Since Theo knew from the records that Rein was of common birth, he elaborated in detail.

Rein nodded, signaling his understanding.

The Month of Green Grass, huh?

The Sword Bearer invitation letter marked the Month of Vitality, which according to the calendar of his previous life corresponded roughly to March, and the Month of Green Grass represented April.

It seemed certain that in three months, he would need to make a trip to Mingster.

"Additionally, the series of noble privileges you enjoy after becoming a Baron, such as the right to debate and immunity, can be learned at a leisurely pace once you return home."

As he spoke, Theo handed a small booklet to Rein, saying,

"Rein, I look forward to your future performance. Should there be no unexpected events, we may meet again in Mingster." Viscount Theo smiled and then left the room.

The two Attendants by the door followed suit, the group departing from the Navy Home Inn.

For Rein, his journey for the ennoblement assessment had nearly ended perfectly.

He had not expected that within just three days, he would receive the assessment results and the Sword Bearer invitation letter.

The efficiency of the Empire's operations had brought him an immense surprise.

After a brief consideration, he decided to pack his bags and set off early for home, eager to share the good news with his parents and his sister Bo He.

However, as Rein descended the stairs, he unexpectedly saw a striking figure waiting for him on the first floor of the Navy Home Inn.

There stood Major Mary Ka, looking at Rein with a smile as he carried his luggage, taking two steps forward, she said, "Knight Rein, no, rather, Baron Rein, are you ready to head back?"