Zhu Yuanzhang and His Son Discuss; Rewards Decided; Zhu Ying's Wife Granted a Fifth-Rank Imperial Decree

With Tang Duo taking the lead, the civil and military officials throughout the court gradually came to their senses.

The crowd wore varied expressions—some astonished, some reflective—before uniformly clasping their hands toward Zhu Yuanzhang in congratulations.

At that moment, the atmosphere within Fengtian Hall was fervent, and the ministers' congratulations rose one after another.

No matter what, although Zhu Ying's record of killing enemies was shocking and difficult to believe, the fact that the Northern Expedition's first battle had breached a city was beyond doubt.

As a general, Li Jinglong would never dare falsely report such a major victory and deceive the emperor.

After all, deceiving the emperor was a grave crime under Ming Dynasty law. Even if Li Jinglong had the nerve of a thousand men, he would never dare falsify matters concerning national warfare and the morale of both the army and the people.

Even if he was a relative of the current emperor.

As the discussion returned to its proper course, Zhu Biao emerged from his thoughts.

He bowed slightly, his expression solemn, and said clearly, "Father Emperor! Victory in the Northern Expedition's first battle is a joy for our Great Ming."

After a brief pause, Zhu Biao looked firmly at Zhu Yuanzhang and continued, "Your son believes that since Zhu Ying has rendered such great merit in the first battle, he should be rewarded accordingly, to inspire all the officers and soldiers and let them know the rewards Great Ming grants for meritorious service."

Zhu Biao spoke earnestly. After finishing, he bowed once more to Zhu Yuanzhang, his attitude exceedingly sincere.

Upon hearing this,

A gentle smile appeared on Zhu Yuanzhang's face. He nodded slightly and said, "What Biao'er says naturally makes sense."

Then his tone shifted, and his expression gained a few traces of deep