When Zhao Feng changed into casual clothes and returned to his residence.
He found more than a dozen lavish carriages parked outside his gates. Several hundred spectators had gathered there, their clothing marking them as commoners, officials, and wealthy merchants alike. It was quite a spectacle.
Upon entering the courtyard, Zhao Feng saw a senior eunuch standing in its center. He wore a scarlet, round-collared python robe, a plain gold belt hung with an ivory identification plaque and a blue-green ornamental canopy with red tassels, and a Three-Peak Hat. A row of junior eunuchs stood beside him, holding various rewards.
Zhao Feng's parents, elder brother, and sister-in-law stood nervously to one side.
Zhao Youlin's and Yang Shi's eyes immediately brightened when they saw Zhao Feng return.
"Feng..."
Zhao Feng nodded to them, signaling that they should stay where they were.
Seeing Zhao Feng enter, the eunuch immediately called out in a ringing voice.
"An imperial decree!"
"Your subject, Zhao Feng, receives the decree!" Zhao Feng led his entire family in kneeling.
The eunuch unrolled the bright yellow decree. His voice was clear and solemn, every word striking the ground with weight. "By the mandate of Heaven, the Emperor decrees: Distant-Reaching General Zhao Feng has shown exceptional loyalty and courage. During the campaign against the rebels, he captured the false crown prince alive and led his troops against twenty thousand barbarian cavalry, fighting bloodily for two days without retreat. Outnumbered, he prevailed, leading from the front and protecting one hundred thousand civilians as they crossed the river safely. His achievements are outstanding. Together with his earlier victories and repeated military accomplishments, these deeds greatly please Us."
After a brief pause, the eunuch glanced at Zhao Feng, who bowed below the steps, and continued, "We hereby appoint him Pacification Commissioner of the