111 第22章荣耀归乡（1）

 第22章 荣耀归乡（1）

The Imperial Palace was aglow. Hundreds of colorful lanterns f loated in the sky above as people f illed the streets, their voices ringing with laughter and celebration. A parade, led by a large red dragon, made its way along the main street while music and the scent of food f illed the air. 
Mulan stood inside the throne room, her mind a blur. 
The past few hours had been surreal. Immediately after telling the Emperor her name, fear had f illed Mulan. While she had saved the Emperor, she had done so as a woman. And it was still illegal for her to f ight as one. She had followed him from the New Palace to the Imperial Palace with a lump in her throat, convinced he was going to punish her. But to her surprise, he had brought her to the palace to honor her. 
Now she stood in front of the throne, a tiny f igure surrounded by dozens of candles that lit up the room, making it warm and bright. Behind her, the most important people of the city stood watching her intently. Among them were Commander Tung, Honghui, and the rest of her battalion. Even Ramtish and Skatch were there, both no worse for wear despite being forced into battle. In fact, they looked almost handsome, freshly washed and standing with pride. 
Rising from his throne, the Emperor approached Mulan. She bowed and smiled when he encouraged her to stand once more. 
“Hua Mulan,” the Emperor began, his voice carrying over the crowd. “The people owe you a debt of thanks. I owe you my life. In gratitude for your service and dedication, I invite you to take your place among our greatest decorated warriors—as an off icer in my Imperial Guard.” 
Behind her, she heard the surprised murmurs from the onlookers. What the Emperor offered was an incredible honor. In fact, it was the greatest honor any soldier could wish for. It took Mulan’s breath away, and she had to move her gaze from the Emperor so he wouldn’t see the emotion running over her face. Unfortunately, when she turned, she found herself looking right at Yao, who had tears of his own running down his cheeks as he watched Mulan with pride. Seeing the large soldier weeping made Mulan smile, and she turned back to the Emperor. She knew what she had to say. 
“Your Majesty,” she began, “I am deeply honored by this immeasurable invitation. But with humble apologies, I cannot accept it.” Once more, the room f illed with surprised mumbles as those gathered tried to make sense of her answer. Only Commander Tung seemed to understand, and he gave her a reassuring smile as she went on. “I left home under cover of darkness and betrayed my family’s trust. I made choices I knew would risk their dishonor. Since then, I have pledged an oath to be loyal, brave, and true. In order to fulf ill this oath, I must return home and make amends to my family.”