Medals

Karl continued solemnly pinning medals symbolizing different honors onto the remaining soldiers who had distinguished themselves.

Among them were standard-bearers who had defended the battle flag amid the chaotic army until the very last moment, Scout Captains who had led their squads around the flank to cut off the enemy's retreat, and Siege vanguards who had continued fighting in a bloody battle despite suffering severe wounds at breaches in the city walls.

The awarding of every medal was accompanied by Brendan's resonant reading of the recipient's achievements, the envious and admiring gazes of the soldiers below, and the solemn moment when Karl personally saluted and the decorated soldier returned the salute with fervor.

After the ceremony's climax had ended, Karl gave Brendan a slight nod.

Brendan understood. He stepped forward and announced in a ringing voice, "The achievements of all you brave warriors are witnessed by Heaven and Earth, and your glory shall endure forever! The remaining soldiers receiving Third-class medals and Collective military merit will have them awarded separately at their respective stations by the commanding officers of each army corps, battalion, and company, according to the records! Entire army, congratulate all the brave warriors decorated today!"

"Congratulations!"

"Congratulations!"

A tumultuous cheer and thunderous applause erupted from below the platform. It was both a salute to the heroes onstage and an expression of pride in being members of this glorious army.

Standing on the parade platform, Karl swept his gaze over the flushed faces below. He watched the soldiers who had just received medals lovingly caress the badges on their chests, their eyes shining with barely restrained excitement and pride, and nodded inwardly.

He knew that the medal system he had painstakingly established and gradually refined had basically taken shape and was beginning to win people's hearts.

He could