On April 1st, 9819 of the Radiant Calendar, at the Qixing Legion's main camp north of Okla City, 120,000 officers and soldiers formed up on the parade ground by battalion.
Once an army numbered over ten thousand, it stretched as far as the eye could see.
The gathering of 120,000 people was tremendously awe-inspiring.
On a thirty-six-meter-high platform, Velin stood with his hands behind his back. Wind swept in from the end of the wilderness, lifting the hem of his dark gray robe and stirring the weighty gleam in the 120,000 pairs of upturned eyes below.
"Greetings, Your Majesty!"
One thousand-man formation after another knelt, their movement like mountains collapsing and seas overturning.
Looking at everything before him, Velin could not help feeling a sense of accomplishment rise within him.
About three minutes later, at the signal of the messengers, one formation after another rose to its feet.
Throughout the entire process, there was no noise apart from the clashing of swords and armor.
"Cassius."
Cassius, standing on the right, stepped forward several paces before dropping to one knee and bowing. "Your Majesty!"
"The troops are orderly, and their morale is high. I am very pleased."
Cassius answered respectfully, "Your Majesty, on behalf of the 123,575 officers and soldiers of the Qixing Legion, I thank you for your praise."
"Begin."
"Yes."
Cassius rose, stepped back several paces, then turned to a High-rank Gold Swordsman nearby and ordered, "Sound the horns. Begin the inspection."
"Yes, Legion Commander." The High-rank Gold Swordsman struck his chest in salute, then quickly ran down from the platform to relay the order.
Once the order was issued, the thirty-six High-rank Silver Shield Bearers standing before the horns drew deep breaths and blew into the bronze horns.
"Woooo—ooom—"
The low note rolled along the ground and carried