Weiyuan was a special title in the Empire, meaning one whose might rose beyond the borders. It represented a great honor. By conferring such a title, the Empire hoped Qianye would take his accomplishments even further, claiming the titles of Dingyuan, Zhenyuan, and perhaps go on to become a duke or prince.

A sceptered marshal was also higher than a normal marshal by half a rank and enjoyed the authority to control other marshals as needed. This rank was a necessity because Qianye would have trouble commanding a group of dukes and marshals otherwise.

One title denoting honor and the other granting actual power; this was a great display of the Empire’s sincerity. Qianye would have full control over the Blacksun Valley.

However, this also proved that the Empire had reached a state of desperation where they had no one else they could send. That was why they had pinned their hopes on Qianye, even forgetting his vampire identity.

The conferment ceremony was short and solemn. No other dukes or marshals apart from Zhao Xuanji were present, which served to reduce the awkwardness. After all, the relationship between Qianye and the Imperial military wasn’t just unpleasant. It was just one step away...