A few days later, the Dragon Country's celebratory banquet officially commenced.
Within the Dragon Capital, countless martial arts powerhouses had gathered from all directions, specifically to witness this grand celebration.
At a large hotel in the Dragon Capital, numerous banquet tables were prepared. The assembled masters took their seats. Despite their injuries, they could not miss such a celebratory occasion.
The atmosphere within the hotel was quite lively, with many beaming with pride. Everyone present in the hotel was a renowned warrior with distinguished merits.
Furthermore, envoys from other nations were in attendance, including the Black Tortoise Empire. The Black Tortoise Empire had dispatched numerous strong individuals to provide aid during the battle in the Outer Realms. The Dragon Country was deeply grateful to the Black Tortoise Empire.
At the main seat of the banquet hall, the elders were seated in order, seemingly awaiting something.
"Why hasn't that brat arrived yet?" Elder Jiu inquired, "Could he be planning a grand entrance?"
"I believe he indeed has such intentions!" Elder Seven smiled, "But he also has the strength for it! He is now known as the Guardian God, and his status in the Dragon Country surpasses ours!"
"The most capable shall hold the position!" Elder Four smiled, "His strength speaks for itself. If any of you are displeased, you can try to compete with him!"
The others exchanged glances and couldn't help but show bitter smiles. They knew that even Yan Cangtian had been defeated by Lu Fan, and they were no match for Lu Fan anymore.
Shortly thereafter, Lu Fan and his companions arrived at the banquet hall, appearing energetic. Jiang Meili and Lin Ke followed, dressed in elegant dresses.
As Lu Fan entered, many martial artists in the banquet hall rose, their expressions turning solemn. They focused their gazes on Lu Fan. If it weren't for Lu Fan's decisive actions in the Outer Realms battle, the Dragon Country would have been in grave danger.
"Lu, you're quite punctual!" Elder Four smiled, "We've reserved a chair specifically for you!"
"These seats are for the elders. Wouldn't it be inappropriate for me to sit here?" Lu Fan smiled.
"What's inappropriate about it! Your fame within the Dragon Country is far greater than ours. It's only fitting for you to sit here!" Elder Four smiled, "Let's not dampen the spirits at today's celebration!"
"Then I shall gratefully accept!" Lu Fan nodded slightly, not paying it too much mind.
It was merely a seat; he certainly wouldn't care about it.
Once most of the guests had arrived, Elder Four ascended the main stage. "In the battle of the Outer Realms, if it weren't for the Qingyun Sect's assistance, we would have been conquered long ago! After the decision of all elders, we hereby grant the Qingyun Sect the title of Protector Sect. From now on, within the Dragon Country, the Qingyun Sect may govern any territory! They will not be restricted by the Dragon Country's headquarters!"
As soon as his words fell, everyone rose in disbelief. Even Lu Fan looked astonished, "Elder Four, why didn't you consult me about this matter!"
"The Qingyun Sect suffered countless casualties in the Outer Realms. While you were not originally involved, you were able to sacrifice yourselves for the country. As an elder of the Dragon Country, how could I let you feel disheartened!" Elder Four stated with a solemn expression.
The members of the Qingyun Sect were filled with excitement. They had never expected the Qingyun Sect to be chosen as the Protector Sect, which was a title of immense honor.
In ancient times, some sects were also chosen as Protector Sects, but these sects were exceptionally powerful and could not be compared to ordinary sects.
After bestowing the sect title, Elder Four turned his gaze to the various experts from the Outer Realms of the Dragon Country, "You have guarded the Outer Realms throughout your lives, and you played a crucial role in this campaign. All of you will be promoted by one level!"
Upon hearing this, the martial arts experts were all greatly moved. While a promotion by one level didn't stir them too much, gaining the recognition of the Dragon Country made them fearless, even in the face of death.
After finishing these announcements, Elder Four's gaze fell upon Long Aotian, "Next is you!"
The members of the Dragon Group looked on excitedly, their eyes fixed on Long Aotian. They knew very well that Long Aotian had broken through to the level of Battle King, and he would undoubtedly play a significant role in the Dragon Country in the future.
"Long Aotian has always managed the Dragon Group with utmost dedication and performed exceptionally well in the Outer Realms battle!" Elder Four stated directly, "From now on, you will be the 10th Elder of the Dragon Country!"
Long Aotian was startled, a hint of panic flashing across his face. Although he had some inkling, he was still deeply touched when it actually happened. Su Dan Novel Network
"The 10th Elder of the Dragon Country!"
Han Bing and the others rejoiced. This had always been Long Aotian's aspiration: to become an elder of the Dragon Country and serve its people. All of this filled them with elation.
"My qualifications are still shallow! I fear I may not be able to bear the position of Elder!"
Long Aotian spoke, his expression earnest.
"Your strength has reached the level of Battle King, and you have dedicated much effort to the Dragon Country's affairs over the past few years. Your appointment as the 10th Elder is only natural!" Elder Four waved his hand, "So, there's no need to decline!"
With these words, Long Aotian nodded slightly, no longer able to refuse further. Today was a celebratory banquet, and he couldn't dampen everyone's spirits.
"Other members of the Dragon Group, you must intensify your cultivation in the future. If you can reach the level of Battle King, you may enter the Elder Council!" Elder Four stated directly, "This is the most direct opportunity, and it should not be missed!"
The members of the Dragon Group nodded in unison. They were talents cultivated by the Dragon Country at great cost, and they naturally had to train diligently to serve the nation in the future.
After bestowing honors upon everyone, Elder Four turned his gaze to Elder Yeshan of the Black Tortoise Nation, "If it weren't for your nation's intervention this time, our Dragon Country might not have been so successful. In the future, if the Black Tortoise Nation encounters any difficulties, the Dragon Country will spare no effort!"
"Elder Four, there's no need for such formality!" Elder Yeshan smiled, "If it weren't for the reliance on the Dragon Country these past few years, the Black Tortoise Nation would have been annihilated long ago. Moreover, the Black Tortoise and the Dragon Country have been amicable for generations. If the Dragon Country were destroyed, the Black Tortoise would surely face the same fate!"
"The Black Tortoise Nation also suffered losses this time. The Dragon Country has prepared numerous rare treasures. After the celebratory banquet, we hope Elder Yeshan will not be polite!" Elder Four spoke again.
Elder Yeshan initially intended to refuse, but seeing Elder Four's sincerity, he could only accept. The Black Tortoise Nation had indeed suffered casualties among many of its martial artists this time, but these losses were negligible to the Dragon Country.
After completing all these arrangements, Elder Four turned his gaze to Lu Fan, "If it weren't for your self-sacrifice in the Outer Realms battle, the Dragon Country would no longer exist!"
As he said this, Elder Four produced a token. "This token was given to me by the Grand Elder before he went into seclusion, entrusting me with the governance of the country! Now, this token is yours!"
The crowd present was slightly taken aback. The token in Elder Four's hand represented supreme authority; it was the Grand Elder's command.