The court was solemn and grave. Morning light filtered through the tall, vermilion latticed windows, casting a golden glow across the floor. The civil and military officials, dressed in their court robes, stood in neat rows, their expressions respectful.
Zhang Chengyan sat upright upon the dragon throne. He scanned the officials and addressed Jin Zhi directly, "Jin Zhi, tell us of the situation at the border."
"As you command, Your Majesty." Jin Zhi stepped forward, his posture upright, and bowed with cupped hands. "Reporting to Your Majesty: when I first arrived at the border, the barbarians were stirring, intending to invade our Darong State territory. I made an immediate decision to strike first. In the middle of the night, I personally led an elite force in a surprise attack on the enemy's camp. Our troops were high in spirits and swift in their assault; we won the first battle and shattered the enemy's morale!"
Chapter 321