The once bustling and prosperous capital city now resembles a ghost town!
Before we set off on our westward expedition, the capital was already showing signs of decline, but compared to the scene before us, it was nothing.
The capital city today is desolate and dilapidated, as if shrouded in death.
The streets of the capital were deserted; the bustling street vendors who used to hawk their wares were nowhere to be seen.
Instead, a group of soldiers with serious expressions, weapons in hand, patrolled the streets like machines.
Their orderly footsteps echoed through the quiet street, adding to the oppressive atmosphere.
Both sides of the road were lined with beggars, dressed in rags and with unkempt hair.
These poor people are mostly the elderly, weak, sick, and disabled. They are thin and bony, with pale and emaciated faces, and their eyes are full of despair and helplessness.
Some beggars lay on the ground, stretching out their withered hands, pleading incessantly, "Please have mercy, give me some food..."
Some huddled in the corners, groaning in pain. Their eyes were always lowered, and they dared not make eye contact with the patrolling soldiers. Even a casual glance would make them tremble like frightened deer.
Witnessing all this, Zhang Xiao felt as if a thousand needles were piercing his heart, and he was filled with immense grief.
He was filled with mixed feelings, including sympathy for the suffering of the people and deep sorrow for the state of the capital.
"Is this still the Great Wu I serve?"
With a heavy heart, Zhang Xiao entered the palace to meet the emperor. Upon seeing Wu Yunyin, he simply bowed respectfully and said nothing more.
Wu Yunyin sat on the high dragon throne, her eyes exuding majesty. She gave a few simple instructions and then ordered Zhang Xiao to lead troops to the Thirteen Prefectures of the Customs.
Aside from the palace gates, Zhang Xiao's gaze suddenly turned fierce, and he clenched his teeth tightly.
"Chen Zhennan, it's time for you to return to court!"
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