Within Fengtian Hall, the atmosphere was as solemn and majestic as ever, its imposing aura enveloping the entire grand hall.
The Imperial Guards standing solemnly both inside and outside the hall were clad in armor and held weapons, adding further gravity to the scene.
The civil and military officials wore Ming Dynasty court robes and stood in orderly ranks within the hall. Divided into two lines, they stood straight-backed and respectful as they presented their memorials in turn.
Every matter raised during the court session concerned affairs of national importance.
The ministers' voices echoed through the hall. Some spoke passionately, while others offered steady analysis. Every word concerned the governance of the Ming Dynasty, and ever since the Northern Expedition began, much of every court session had been devoted to matters related to it.
Just then!
A rush of hurried footsteps came from outside the hall, disrupting the rhythm of the court.
Guo Zhen, commander of the Imperial Guards, entered the hall in gleaming armor. His pace was hurried, yet steady.
After entering the hall.
Guo Zhen wore an expression of barely suppressed excitement. Looking respectfully at Zhu Yuanzhang upon the Dragon Throne, he loudly announced, "Reporting to Your Majesty!"
"Great General Guo Ying has sent an urgent report. The Northern Expedition has achieved a great victory."
"The courier is currently waiting outside the hall."
The reason Guo Zhen was so delighted was naturally because the Great General leading this Northern Expedition was his father.
As soon as those words fell.
The eyes of all the civil and military officials, who had been focused on the court session, turned toward Guo Zhen.
For a moment.
It was as though time had frozen inside the hall. Everyone was drawn in by this sudden news.
"A great victory?"
Even Zhu Yuanzhang, seated