Inside Chang'an!
Upon receiving news that the army had completely pacified the Three Peninsula Kingdoms and was returning in triumph, the people spread the word everywhere. Every household brimmed with celebration!
As the Crown Prince overseeing the realm, Li Chengqian, together with Li Tai, Li Ke, the civil and military officials remaining in Chang'an, and the jubilant commonfolk, went thirty li beyond the city to welcome Li Shimin and the others on the day of their return!
"They're here! They're here! I can see them—they're back!"
"Wonderful! Wonderful! Long live the Tang Dynasty! Long live the Sage!"
"Long live the Tang Dynasty! Long live the Sage!"
"The Sage personally led the campaign and settled the Liaodong Peninsula in a single battle, bringing it completely into China. Such achievements will be recorded in the annals of history!"
"Ah...! I heard that the Divine Might Army's cannons and explosive packs rendered tremendous service on the battlefield!"
"I know, I know! Er Zhuang from the village next to mine is in the Divine Might Army. He sent word back before, saying that the reason this battle was fought so smoothly and easily was mainly because the cannons and explosive packs were simply too powerful!"
"Wonderful! Our Tang Dynasty is mighty! All this is due not only to the Sage's diligent governance, but also to the immortal Imperial Preceptor's devoted assistance!"
As Li Shimin and the others of the returning army gradually drew near and saw the officials and people who had come out of the city to welcome them!
Every member of the army straightened their backs, pride and glory unconsciously showing on their faces!
Especially Li Shimin, who cared most about appearances—when he saw such a scene, the little mustache by his lips bobbed upward and downward, while the smugness in his