On the official road, the emperor once again led his ministers out to welcome the returning men.
The scale of this reception differed little from the one held for Zhuge Dan.
The Three Excellencies stood behind Cao Mao, while everyone gazed into the distance, quietly awaiting the meritorious men.
Deng Ai's great victory had certainly won Cao Mao ample prestige.
He could even send eunuchs to viciously trample on the Great Clans' heads without the Great Clans daring to utter a word.
This victory had brought Cao Mao so much authority that the Great Clans dared not contend with the emperor at such a time.
If the soldiers came to believe the ministers were maliciously interfering with their rewards, it would cause serious trouble.
Cao Mao looked exceedingly pleased with himself.
The Three Excellencies wore similar expressions. Leaving aside the recluse Zheng Chong, the other two, Zhuge Dan and Wang Su, were both delighted.
They had both come intending to accomplish something, and Deng Ai had handled this affair superbly. Naturally, this would also become part of their records of service, and might even help them more in the future.
Both Wang Su and Zhuge Dan had made their preparations, intending to put this affair to use in the great undertakings ahead.
There was no knowing what the ministers thought inwardly, but outwardly, at least, they were all delighted, their faces wreathed in smiles.
Even if they were unhappy, they dared not show it now. The enemy had been defeated, and all under Heaven celebrated. If you wore a face fit for a funeral, did you have a death wish?
Xun Yi smiled most happily of all.
From time to time, Cao Mao even summoned these men over to ask whether this affair deserved celebration and whether a ceremony should