Returning in triumph, renowned throughout the world
The winds of war had finally dissipated from the border, replaced by a gentle warmth. News of Shen Chengyou's triumphant return to the capital spread, and people along the way spontaneously flocked to the streets, holding flowers and wine, lining both sides of the official road to welcome him. Children ran and cheered, carrying homemade lanterns, while the elderly, leaning on their canes, wept, stuffing the best food from their homes into the hands of the soldiers: "General Shen, thank you for saving us!" "Heroes of the Great Jing, may you have a safe journey!"
As the procession reached the outskirts of Shuozhou City, Shen Chengyou spotted a familiar figure at the city gate in the distance. Wang Ruoxi, dressed in a light purple ruqun (a type of traditional Chinese dress), stood in the morning light, her eyes filled with anticipation and tenderness. Several months had passed since he last saw her; she had become thinner, but looked even more capable. Beside her were several representatives of the military and civilians, holding a "Peaceful Picture" jointly drawn by the people.
Shen Chengyou dismounted and strode forward, pulling her into his arms. The coldness of his armor mingled with the warmth of her clothes, and he heard her soft murmur in his ear, "Chengyou, I'm relieved to see you back." He tightened his arms around her, the scent of herbs in her hair filling his nostrils, and all his fatigue and fear vanished in that moment: "Ruoxi, I'm back. I'm sorry to have kept you waiting."
Seeing this, the soldiers and civilians applauded and cheered, the applause and cheers echoing outside Shuozhou City. Wang Ruoxi's cheeks flushed slightly as she gently pushed him away and handed him the "Peace Picture": "This was drawn by the people overnight. It has the signature of every household on it. They said they wanted to give this peace to you and to all the soldiers." Shen Chengyou took the scroll, unfolded it, and saw a village with smoke rising from its chimneys, working people, and children playing. Although the brushstrokes were childish, they were full of sincere gratitude.
The army continued south, and wherever it went, it was met with enthusiastic welcomes from the people lining the streets. Many people spontaneously formed wedding processions, escorting the army all the way to the outskirts of the capital. When the news reached the capital, the emperor was already waiting at the city gate with his civil and military officials. The imperial road was decorated with lanterns and colorful streamers, and the sound of gongs and drums filled the air, creating a festive atmosphere.
Shen Chengyou led his soldiers to the foot of the city wall, dismounted, and knelt down to kowtow: "Your subject Shen Chengyou has lived up to your mission, driving out the remaining Khitan forces and recovering all lost territory. I hereby lead the army in triumph!" The soldiers shouted in unison: "Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor!" Their voices resounded through the sky.
The Emperor strode down the city wall and personally helped Shen Chengyou to his feet, his eyes filled with satisfaction and praise: "Minister Shen, you have lived up to my expectations and the people's trust. You are truly a pillar of our Great Jing!" He turned to face the assembled soldiers and announced loudly: "All soldiers who participated in the battle will be rewarded! Those who have rendered meritorious service in killing the enemy will be promoted; wounded soldiers will be given gold and medicine; fallen soldiers will be posthumously granted titles and their families will be given a grand funeral!"
The victory banquet was held in the Golden Palace, where the emperor and his ministers rejoiced together, clinking glasses and exchanging toasts. The emperor personally poured wine for Shen Chengyou: "Minister Shen, in this campaign, you achieved a victory against overwhelming odds, offering numerous ingenious strategies. You not only repelled the Khitan but also enhanced the prestige of our Great Jing Kingdom. I have decided to promote you to Minister of War, in charge of all military affairs in the country. Would you be willing to accept this decree?"
Shen Chengyou knelt down to express his gratitude: "Your Majesty, I am willing to share your burdens and serve the people. I will certainly not fail Your Majesty's trust and expectations!"
Wang Ruoxi was also rewarded by the emperor for her meritorious service in pacifying the people and treating the soldiers on the border. She was bestowed the title of "Virtuous Lady" and awarded a hundred taels of gold and a thousand bolts of silk, becoming a model of virtuous wife praised by everyone in the capital. Shen Nianqing and Li Yanran sat at the banquet, looking at their son and daughter-in-law's success, their eyes filled with pride and satisfaction.
After the victory banquet, Shen Chengyou's name spread throughout the streets and alleys of Dajing. Storytellers recounted his legendary stories of "Great Victory at Shuozhou" and "Relief of the Siege of Yanmen Pass" in teahouses, painters painted his heroic figure into scrolls, which circulated widely among the people, and some even built shrines for him and offered incense to commemorate his merits in protecting the country and its people.
Young people regarded Shen Chengyou as a role model, and many signed up to join the army, determined to serve the country and bring happiness to the people, just like him. In the imperial court, ministers also respected Shen Chengyou greatly, and were willing to listen to his opinions on both military decisions and measures to improve people's livelihoods.
Shen Chengyou knew that this honor was not his own achievement, but the result of the bloody battles fought by all his soldiers, the strong support of the people, and the silent sacrifices of his wife. He did not become arrogant or complacent, but instead devoted himself even more diligently to his work. Upon assuming the position of Minister of War, his first task was to reorganize the national army, strengthen border defenses, implement a new military training system, and improve the army's combat effectiveness.
Wang Ruoxi continued to support him from behind, managing household affairs and often offering him advice. The couple's concerted efforts became a celebrated story in the Great Jing court.
As night deepened, Shen Chengyou returned home, where Wang Ruoxi was preparing hot tea for him. He held her hand and whispered, "Ruoxi, half of today's glory belongs to you." Wang Ruoxi smiled and said, "We are husband and wife, and we should share joys and sorrows. You protect our country, and I protect you; that is enough."
The bright moonlight outside the window illuminated their clasped hands and the prosperous scene of peace and prosperity in the Great Jing Kingdom. Shen Chengyou knew that this was just a new beginning, and he would face more challenges in the future. But as long as the couple were of one mind and remained true to their original aspirations, they would surely be able to protect the land of Great Jing and ensure that the people could live in peace and happiness forever.
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