On the seventh day of the Northern Territory army's march south, at Iron Floating City.
The Heaven Dou Empire's banners still hung from the city walls, but the gates had already opened.
The enemy had opened them of their own accord.
"We surrender! Open the gates!"
The gates creaked open, and the drawbridge dropped, hitting the ground and kicking up a cloud of dust.
The weapons of the city's defenders were piled on either side of the gates, swords, axes, and halberds stacked in neat rows.
The commander knelt on one knee in the middle of the gate. He had removed half his armor, tucked his helmet beneath his arm, and pressed his forehead against the flagstones. His voice was hoarse.
"Your subordinate... welcomes King Frost Extreme."
Luo Shang sat astride his horse, the silver-white Frost Flower Banner snapping behind him.
He looked down at the kneeling commander and recognized his face.
Ten years ago, this man had served with him in the Northern Territory and fought the Soul Beasts of the Far North. He was a true man.
Later, he had been transferred inland, and Luo Shang had never heard from him again.
"Get up." Luo Shang dismounted and walked over to the commander, reaching out to help him to his feet.
"Tell me, how are the people in the city?"
The commander looked up, his eyes reddening.
He had served in the Heaven Dou Empire's army for over a decade, but never once had a commanding officer's first question upon entering a city been about its people.
He gazed into Luo Shang's steady eyes. His Adam's apple bobbed, and his voice caught in his throat.
"The people... are all well. Word of King Frost Extreme's order not to harm civilians spread through the army long ago. When the