With the return of the army of one hundred thousand, the backs of the military officials in the court straightened considerably. Their glowing faces made them look as though they were the triumphant warriors themselves. Emperor Deming was overjoyed and showered countless soldiers with honors. For this, General Meng was elevated to the rank of General of Agile Cavalry, enjoying a boundless wave of prestige in the court for a time. No matter how much the civil and military officials usually clashed, they set aside their inner grievances at this moment, unwilling to stir up any trouble. Although the civil officials had always looked down on the military men as crude, they had to admit that the battle-forged courage of the military officers was something ordinary people could never rival.
The celebration banquet was exceptionally grand. Emperor Deming personally attended to commend General Meng, which left the General feeling thoroughly overwhelmed. Being a blunt man who knew no smooth words, he could only keep offering toasts to express his respect, until finally, he drank to the point where his face flushed crimson and his walk became crooked.
This was the first time Zhao Yan had laid eyes on General Meng. Although the Bearded Man looked quite rugged, a closer look revealed strikingly handsome facial features; if he shaved off his beard, he would certainly look quite dashing as well.
Chapter 670