The morning light first appeared, and the morning glow dyed the horizon red. The sound of drums and the shouts of soldiers training could be heard from the military camp. An Lushan and Li Bai stood at the highest point of the martial arts field, overlooking this vibrant and lively scene, their eyes shining with determination and anticipation for the future. "Brother Taibai, in the battle last night, we successfully repelled the enemy, but this victory is only temporary," An Lushan said, taking a deep breath of the fresh morning air. Li Bai nodded, his gaze deep, "What brother An said is extremely true. The enemy's forces are formidable, and we still need to strengthen our defenses and not be complacent."
"I am of the same mind," An Lushan said with a slight smile, "but I am more concerned about the situation in the court. Although we have achieved victory, we may not necessarily receive the recognition we deserve within the court."
Li Bai remained silent for a moment, then spoke slowly, " brother An, court affairs have always been complex. But as long as we act justly and for the country and the people, we will naturally gain the support of the people."
"Although that is true, the power struggles and deceit in the court are beyond the understanding of warriors like us," An Lushan furrowed his brow, "I am worried that our efforts will be slandered and undermined."
Li Bai listened and gently patted An Lushan's shoulder: " brother An, you are overthinking it. As long as we have a clear conscience and uphold righteousness, we will naturally stand undefeated."
As they were talking, a soldier hurriedly ran over, panting, and reported: "General, Mr. Li, the imperial messenger has arrived at the camp gate, with an edict to see both of you."
An Lushan and Li Bai exchanged a glance, a hint of doubt flashing in their eyes. Although they anticipated a response from the court, they didn't expect it to come so soon.
"Let's go, we're going to meet the messenger." An Lushan stood up, straightened his robe, and walked to the camp gate side by side with Li Bai.
At the camp gate, a dignified messenger in court attire was waiting for them. Upon seeing the two, the messenger immediately stepped forward and saluted: "General An, Mr. Li, I have been ordered to deliver the decree."
An Lushan and Li Bai quickly saluted and received the decree. The messenger unfolded the imperial decree and loudly read: "By the grace of heaven, the Emperor decrees: An Lushan and Li Bai have shown bravery and wisdom, successfully repelling foreign enemies and defending the homeland. An Lushan is hereby appointed as the Grand General of the State, and Li Bai as a Scholar of the Hanlin Academy. They are to depart for the capital immediately to receive their titles. So it is decreed!"
After reading the imperial edict aloud, messenger handed the edict to An Lushan. An Lushan took the edict, feeling both joy and worry. He was pleased that he and Li Bai had received recognition from the court, but worried about the complex situation and intense power struggles in the capital. They were likely to face many challenges on their journey.
"Taibai brother, take a look at this..." An Lushan handed the edict to Li Bai with a look of helplessness on his face.
Li Bai took the edict, examined it carefully, and then smiled, saying, " brother An, there's no need to worry. Although the journey to the capital is full of risks, as long as we uphold righteousness and possess both wisdom and bravery, we can overcome the dangers."
An Lushan felt slightly relieved after hearing this: "Taibai is absolutely right. Then let's immediately start our journey back to the capital."
After bidding farewell to the messenger, the two returned to the camp to pack up and prepare for the journey back to the capital. During the preparation process, An Lushan and Li Bai constantly discussed how to deal with the situation in the capital and the possible challenges they might encounter. They knew very well that this return to the capital was no small matter and they had to be fully prepared.
After several days of traveling, the two finally arrived in the capital. The city was bustling and crowded, a stark contrast to the atmosphere in the military camp. An Lushan and Li Bai walked the streets, feeling the pulse and atmosphere of this ancient city.
"TaibaiBrother, you see, this capital city is truly bustling and prosperous," An Lushan exclaimed.
"Yes, brother An," Li Bai nodded and smiled. "But behind the prosperity, there are endless dangers and challenges. We must remain vigilant at all times and not take it lightly."
As they spoke, they walked into a teahouse to take a rest. The teahouse was bustling with people and lively. They found a seat by the window, ordered a pot of tea, and started chatting.
"TaibaiBrother, how do you think we should proceed to the capital?" An Lushan asked in a low voice.
Li Bai pondered for a moment before speaking slowly, " brother An, I think we should act with caution and use retreat as a means to advance. In the capital, we are weak and should not act rashly. We should first understand the situation, make allies, and then plan for our development."
"TaibaiBrother, you are absolutely right," An Lushan nodded in agreement. "Let's first stay at an inn, observe the situation slowly, and then make plans."
After discussing, the two of them left the teahouse and went to the inn to settle down. In the inn, they met several literati and heroes from various places. Through their interactions, the two gained a deeper understanding and knowledge of the situation in the capital.
A few days later, the emperor held a banquet in the palace to reward An Lushan and Li Bai. The palace was magnificent and grand. An Lushan and Li Bai, dressed in court attire, walked into the great hall surrounded by the courtiers.
Upon seeing the two, the emperor was delighted: "An Lushan, Li Bai, you have indeed lived up to my expectations and successfully repelled the foreign enemies, defending our homeland. Today, I specially grant you official positions and titles, hoping that you will continue to serve the court and seek the well-being of the people."
An Lushan and Li Bai immediately knelt down to express their gratitude: "We will do our utmost to serve the court and seek the well-being of the people."
After the award ceremony, the two were arranged to stay in the palace for one night. There, they met many court officials and noble youths, and through conversations with them, gained a deeper understanding of the political situation and interpersonal relationships in the capital.
The next morning, An Lushan and Li Bai left the palace and returned to their inn. There, they began discussing their plans and actions for the future. They knew that their return to the capital was just the beginning of the real challenges ahead. However, they also believed that as long as they were united and possessed both wisdom and bravery, they would be able to face all challenges and difficulties and create a more brilliant tomorrow.
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