Wang Shun supported Tang Yin, who seemed ready to collapse with just a gust of wind. Behind him followed An Beihou Shen Liushan and General Cai Yucheng of the Jinwu Guard, both also wore expressions of exhaustion, showing how arduous the journey had been.
Not only did they have to endure the humiliation of being driven out of the Capital, but they also had to constantly face attacks and ambushes from enemy forces. Along the way, the Jinwu Guard suffered countless casualties, reducing their numbers by more than half. An Beihou had initially brought twenty thousand elite soldiers from the North Pass, and now only over eight thousand remained.
When the Emperor approached, Concubine Le got off the carriage holding Prince Xi. She was also emaciated, with a white flower pinned next to her temple.
"Rise, my loyal subjects. There's no need for formalities out here; you've all worked hard these days," Tang Yin said feebly, and then started coughing violently.
