章 260: I should not have come

The day for awarding the mecha warriors who had been the bravest in battle soon arrived. All those who had fearlessly confronted mutated beasts without a thought about their own lives were gathered at the royal palace where they got on one knee and bowed before the emperor. When one's name was called , they went up and received a medal of valor and a large cash prize from the emperor. For, some a promotion and rise was in the ranks was also given on the spot. 

It was not unusual for Esong and his closest men to receive the award year after year. He had a whole chest of such awards by now, so the ceremony while meaningful held no attraction to him. All of his thoughts were on home, 'tomorrow, I will be going home tomorrow.' 

After being recognized and rewarded, mecha warriors from wherever they were stood on their feet and placed their hands over their hearts to loudly renew their oath of servitude and faithfulness to the throne and empire in all circumstances.