General Lin let out a low, amused huff. "Do not let the silk go to your head, Ji'an. We are here to honor your brother. Maintain your discipline."
"Always, Father," Ji'an beamed, her confidence fully restored.
***
When the carriage finally drew to a halt and the doors were opened by the Imperial Palace guards, Ji'an's newfound confidence was immediately put to the test and validated.
The courtyard stretching before the massive Main Gate was already packed with the highest-ranking nobles, ministers, and military officials of the Azure Empire.
They stood in perfectly organized, rigid hierarchies, dressed in their finest silks and ceremonial armors, waiting for the Emperor's arrival to officially receive the victorious Vanguard.
The moment General Lin stepped out of the carriage, a wave of respectful, hushed murmurs rippled through the crowd.
