The snow was light and dense, like silver flowers scattered by a celestial maiden. It did not hinder the army's progress at all, but instead added a unique, tranquil charm to this grand march.
In the distance, the continuous mountain ranges are covered in white snow, appearing and disappearing in the swirling clouds and mist, like a traditional Chinese ink painting slowly unfolding between heaven and earth.
The army braved wind and snow to get there. Although the journey was slightly slower due to the weather and many other factors, everything went smoothly, and they arrived two days ahead of schedule.
They arrived safely outside the capital a week before New Year's Day and immediately settled in an orderly manner.
Beside the encampment, there was a frozen river, its ice surface shimmering in the sunlight.
The soldiers busied themselves, some carrying buckets to the river to break the ice and fetch water. Their steps were hurried, and they didn't care that the splashed snow water soaked their trouser legs. Their sturdy bodies showed their resilience in the cold wind.
Some were diligently bathing and purifying themselves inside their tents, their arms powerfully wiping their bodies, their muscles undulating with the movements, water droplets rolling on their bronze skin.
Others carefully tidied their clothes, their fingers deftly buttoning the buttons and smoothing out wrinkles, their eyes focused and attentive.
Afterwards, they gathered together and carefully wiped their weapons. Their movements were skilled and focused, each action full of power, making them gleam with a cold light and shine like new.
At the same time, the spoils of war and prisoners of war obtained from this campaign were carefully counted, with every step being meticulous and rigorous.
After everything was prepared, they waited for the emperor's summons, eagerly awaiting the moment of glorious audience.
This anticipation is filled with pride in victory, hope for the future, and loyalty and affection for one's country.
Minister of Rites Ye Yunyao was in a hurry, with a slight sheen of sweat on her forehead, but her eyes were firm and focused as she directed her subordinates in an orderly manner.
She would sometimes look down at the gift list, and sometimes look up to give instructions to the two generals. Her focused expression seemed to be unaffected by anything around her.
Her deep eyes revealed focus and meticulousness as she carefully considered every detail, setting the audience date for tomorrow.
Upon hearing this, General An Yuan and General Piaoji ordered their men to bring them brand-new clothes, the fabric of which shimmered faintly in the candlelight.
Gently stroking the hem of her clothes, a proud smile curved her lips, as if she too was cheering for this grand moment.
The generals stood tall and proud, their heads held high and their fists clenched, unable to conceal the surging excitement in their hearts. They eagerly anticipated the solemn and glorious audience the next day, their eyes gleaming with fervent light.
Standing in the tent, Qin Qianluo was also filled with excitement. She unconsciously clutched the hem of her clothes and paced back and forth.
Tomorrow, she will be able to see her beloved family. Although she could go directly to a farm in the suburbs to rest.
But my current status is still that of a military officer. Now that I am in the army, military discipline is like a bright mirror, which cannot be violated.
The next day, as dawn broke, the army had already assembled in perfect formation, like towering mountain peaks.
The morning mist was thick, enveloping the soldiers who were ready for battle like a veil. The banners of Tianxuan fluttered freely in the morning breeze, as if proclaiming their glory and bravery to the world.
The flags fluttered, dispersing the surrounding fog, and sunlight pierced through the thin mist, illuminating the soldiers' resolute faces.
The two generals stood proudly at the front of the ranks, like evergreen pines and cypresses, their eyes fixed firmly ahead, leading a group of valiant warriors.
With firm and powerful strides, each step seemed to resonate with the heartbeat of the capital, as he slowly entered the bustling city to pay homage to the supreme emperor.
The emperor, dressed in a dragon robe, stood upright with his hands behind his back. His majestic figure stood prominently at the palace gate. He slightly raised his chin, his eyes revealing solemnity and anticipation.
He personally led his civil and military officials, as if welcoming a grand triumphant return. In the square in front of the palace, the white marble paving stones gleamed under the sunlight.
The stone lions on both sides are majestic and imposing, as if they too are excited about the return of the army.
The officials, dressed in their court robes, stood solemnly and respectfully. Upon hearing of the army's return, the people of the capital flocked to the streets, crowding both sides of the road.
They looked up at the heroic army, their eyes filled with respect and pride, and their cheers resounded like thunder.
The army's formation was perfectly aligned, resembling the Great Wall, with military flags fluttering in the wind, making a whooshing sound, as if telling the story of past battles and smoke. The scene was magnificent and the momentum was earth-shattering.
Upon reaching the palace gate, everyone dismounted and knelt down in unison, their movements precise and synchronized.
General An Yuan raised his head, his eyes bright and fervent, and his voice booming as he loudly proclaimed, "Your Majesty, I am honored by Your Majesty's grace and have been ordered to lead the army in a campaign."
Fortunately, His Majesty's divine power protects our army, enabling all soldiers to be filled with lofty aspirations, bravely advance, and fearlessly face death.
The enemy country has now been completely wiped out, and its territory has been incorporated into our dynasty. This is all due to Your Majesty's sagacity, which shines like a brilliant star on the path of our dynasty.
"I have returned to court to report back and respectfully request Your Majesty's commendation and instructions." After saying this, he respectfully lowered his head and clasped his hands in front of his chest.
Upon hearing this, the Emperor was overjoyed. He strode forward, a smile playing on his lips, his eyes filled with satisfaction. He personally reached out to help General An Yuan up, his face beaming with contentment.
He said in a loud voice: "My dear ministers, please rise. You have all gone through hardships on this expedition and have made great contributions!"
Such a magnificent feat of expanding territory and sweeping away enemy countries is enough to awe the surrounding barbarians and fully demonstrate the strength and majesty of our dynasty, just like the blazing sun in the sky, inspiring the respect of all nations.
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