Meanwhile, the Imperial Court was also actively preparing for the campaign.
Large quantities of grain and fodder, troops, horses, and military equipment were transported to the front, while the navy's warships were being built day and night.
Three months was neither a long time nor a short one, but it was still rather tight for preparations for war.
Liu Xie had not been idle during this time either.
With the great war imminent, he left the palace increasingly often to inspect the army and boost morale, and frequently visited the families of fallen soldiers as well.
He did this both to establish the Son of Heaven's image as a ruler close to his people and to kindle the soldiers' resolve to fight for their country.
After several such visits outside the palace, however, Liu Xie discovered a problem that could not be ignored. He therefore summoned Guo Jia, Zhuge Liang, and the others to the palace specifically to discuss it.
The Xuan Room, Weiyang Palace...
"Greetings, Your Majesty-"
After entering the Great Hall, Guo Jia and the others offered their greetings in unison.
Liu Xie was handling memorials behind the Dragon Desk. At their voices, he said without even raising his head, "This is no court assembly. There is no need to stand on such ceremony."
"Attendants, bring them seats."
Eunuchs immediately brought them cushions.
Liu Xie continued handling the memorials, apparently intending to finish the work at hand before speaking with them.
Guo Jia and the others all waited patiently while Liu Xie worked.
They all felt that the Son of Heaven had undergone a considerable transformation since he began inspecting the army more frequently. His words and actions had become more brisk and decisive, with something of the military's resoluteness.
After all, efficiency came first in the army.