Before dawn had even broken, the sound of hoofbeats came from outside the 47th Regiment's camp.
The sound gradually grew clearer, piercing the stillness of the night and shattering Ang's sleep.
When he opened his eyes, he saw that the camp outside was already bustling with activity.
A group of logistics soldiers had arrived early on horseback. Their hoofbeats echoed through the open camp, pounding against the ears of every soldier who had yet to wake.
Ang quickly got up, walked out of the tent, and stood at the entrance, squinting into the distance.
The logistics soldier mounted his horse, saluted Ang upon seeing him, and said with some urgency, "Commander Ang, according to the Military Department's arrangements, the 47th Regiment may board the ships now."
Ang nodded, returned the salute, then turned and shouted, "Everyone, prepare!" His voice was not loud, but every soldier seemed to have been waiting for this moment. They instantly woke from their sleep and sprang into action.
The tents became noisy as the soldiers dressed themselves, slung dry rations over their shoulders, picked up sacks of wheat, and quickly followed the convoy.
Quintina was already organizing supplies in one of the carriages. She glanced at Ang and gave him a gentle smile, signaling that everything was under control.
Ang personally led the troops toward the harbor. The journey was not far, and after marching for roughly an hour, they finally reached the coastal port.
The sight before him made him frown slightly—nine enormous ships were docked in the harbor. Their hulls were broad and their shapes rough, yet they exuded an imposing presence that could not be underestimated.
The sea shimmered under the morning light, which had only just fallen upon the ships and made them gleam with silvery radiance.
Ang did not board