After the formalities, the mayor straightened and beamed at Marcus with genuine warmth and respect.
"The Emperor is truly wise," he declared. "To appoint you as the Lord of Twin Wing Island and Dragon's Roar Town is a blessing for all of us. The people have been hoping for a leader like you for generations."
He actually looked up at the sky, his expression filled with gratitude. "Thank the Goddess of Dreams! Thank the Emperor! Thank the Dragon Dynasty!"
Marcus stared at him for a moment. Was he really this enthusiastic?
Marcus hadn't realized just how much the Black Serpent Islet quest had raised his standing among the locals. He had expected respect, perhaps even some admiration, but this was something else entirely. He couldn't help feeling a little humbled by it, although he would have been lying if he said he wasn't secretly pleased.
Of course, none of this had anything to do with that stingy Dragon Emperor.
