I Pick Up Talents on the Interstellar Battlefield Chapter 765 - 540: Spoils of War, Setting Out for the Royal Star

Upon Qin Tian's return to Ice Extreme Pass, Ran Tu was already present in the command center, having proactively requested the Baihu Corps to assume complete responsibility for defending the Eight Satellite Cities.

Qin Tian granted immediate approval and subsequently issued orders for Xiong, Xue Wuyang, and their respective troops to return to Ice Extreme Pass for a much-needed rest.

Soon, formations of soldiers marched back through the harsh winds and snow, the rhythmic sound of their boots resonating across the Ice Extreme Pass square.

The warriors stood rigidly in formation, their mental exhaustion from relentless combat already eclipsed by the elation of victory; every soldier's eyes gleamed with excitement and eager anticipation.

It was common knowledge that the recent beast tide assault, which initially appeared to be an insurmountable crisis for Ice Extreme Pass, had been navigated successfully. This was attributed to the Military Lord's strategic orchestration, Zhou Ziming's decisive command, and the valiant efforts of elite combatants like Xiong and Xue Wuyang. Remarkably, not only was the crisis averted, but the casualty rate was astonishingly low.

What further buoyed the spirits of all present was the arrival of formidable reinforcements, such as the Baihu Corps, injecting a robust sense of confidence into the future prospects of Ice Extreme Pass.

"Military Lord!"

"Military Lord!"

As each unit successively occupied its designated position in the square, the soldiers on seeing Qin Tian positioned on the elevated platform snapped to attention and offered crisp salutes.

A gentle smile graced Qin Tian's lips as he offered a slight nod, his gaze methodically sweeping over the orderly ranks assembled in the square. Once the final squad had fallen into place and an absolute silence descended, he commenced his address:

"Your diligent efforts throughout this arduous battle are commendable! At the outset of this conflict, considerable apprehension existed regarding Ice Extreme Pass's capacity to weather this catastrophic event. However, the undeniable outcome stands as testament to our success!"

"It is your collective wisdom, unwavering bravery, profound fearlessness, and steadfast conviction that have preserved the integrity of Ice Extreme Pass. I am immensely proud of each and every one of you!"

Following his declaration, a palpable wave of fervor surged through the assembled soldiers, with many finding their eyes involuntarily welling up.

This emotional response stemmed not merely from the acknowledgment of their contributions but from an overwhelming sense of pride in their role as stalwart guardians of Ice Extreme Pass!

"In recognition of your exceptional contributions during this critical defense operation—"

Qin Tian's mouth curved into a subtle smile, his deliberate pause designed to heighten the audience's anticipation before he proclaimed loudly: "In addition to the financial bonuses mandated by military regulations, I am personally granting each of you an extended five-day leave period!"

Whoosh!

The very instant his words concluded, the encompassing square erupted in a cacophony of thunderous cheers, the visible signs of fatigue vanishing entirely from the soldiers' faces, supplanted by an effervescent, unrestrained delight.

The Ice Extreme Pass of today bore no resemblance to the desolate, barren landscape it once was.

Within the confines of the pass, commercial activities thrived, offering a plethora of recreational diversions, including bustling taverns, competitive arenas, and vibrant centers for leisure.

Moreover, combining these five days with their accrued annual leave would provide ample time for excursions to the royal star or other thriving satellite hubs. For those with families stationed nearby, the possibility of a cherished reunion was now within reach.

For soldiers who had dedicated years to guarding the frontier, a five-day period of freely allocated leave held far greater appeal than any monetary reward.

"Our deepest gratitude, Military Lord!"

"The Military Lord's wisdom is unparalleled! This reward is exceptionally practical!"

The resounding cheers of the soldiers continued unabated, their previously taut nerves now completely at ease.

Qin Tian observed the jubilant scene with a serene smile; with the formidable Baihu Corps now integrated into the defensive structure, the overall pressure on Ice Extreme Pass had substantially diminished, affording the veteran soldiers, who had diligently served for years, the opportunity for recuperation.

Upon the conclusion of everyone's leave period, the long-anticipated, ambitious development project for Ice Extreme Pass was slated to commence officially.

...

Within the dedicated meeting room of the Ice Extreme Pass command center.

The previously sparse expanse of the long meeting table was now fully occupied by attendees.

Qin Tian occupied the central position at the head of the table. Seated to his left were the seasoned veterans of Ice Extreme Pass—Li Qi, Xiong, Xue Wuyang, and their associates, accompanied by the five regimental commanders.

Positioned to his right were the principal figures of the Baihu Corps: Corps Commander Ran Tu and the commanders presiding over the fourteen brigades under his command.

Qin Tian surveyed the room, his gaze encompassing nearly twenty individuals possessing Tier Six cultivation, finally resting with a look of profound satisfaction upon this remarkable "assembly of stars."

This cadre represented his core operational team, embodying the very confidence required for the future advancement of Ice Extreme Pass.

"The primary objective of this convened assembly is to foster mutual acquaintance among all members and to facilitate seamless collaboration in forthcoming engagements and operational processes." Qin Tian initiated, "To commence, let us extend a most hearty welcome to our esteemed comrades from the Baihu Corps, who are now officially integrated into the Ice Extreme Pass establishment!"

Clap clap clap—

A wave of enthusiastic applause swiftly filled the room.

The members of the Baihu Corps rose in unison, offering slight bows toward the veterans of Ice Extreme Pass seated on their left.

As the applause gradually subsided, Qin Tian turned his attention back to the Baihu Corps contingent, his expression adopting a more serious demeanor: "Allow me to introduce, firstly, the distinguished individuals seated on my left."

"This is Li Qi, my intelligence chief."

As his words were spoken, all gazes within the Baihu Corps immediately landed on Li Qi.

Every individual keenly observed Li Qi's seating arrangement, positioned directly to the left of General Qin.

This specific placement inherently signified his role as General Qin's most trusted confidant, an individual of paramount importance.

Furthermore, the realm of intelligence served as the "eyes" and "ears" for any organization, its significance being self-evident.

The commander of the Baihu Corps' intelligence brigade instinctively straightened his posture, scrutinizing Li Qi with earnest attention.

At that precise moment, Li Qi's gaze also moved to meet theirs; their eyes connected, a mutual nod of acknowledgment passing between them, accompanied by a subtle, understanding smile.

"This is Xiong, my personal guard captain, Tier Six, Six Stars Spiritualist..."

Qin Tian proceeded with the introductions of the individuals seated to his left, starting with Xiong, followed by Old Ghost, Terreda, and Xue Wuyang, detailing the responsibilities of each group commander. He then introduced Zhou Ziming, the top graduate from the Dawn Military Academy's Conducting Department.

Upon hearing Qin Tian's comprehensive introductions, the high-ranking members of the Baihu Corps began to display expressions of gradually mounting astonishment.

Their initial perception was that Ice Extreme Pass was merely a remote outpost, possessing limited reserves of talent. However, they were unexpectedly met with the reality that despite the small number of General Qin's subordinates, each was a true elite. There were no fewer than six Tier Six Spiritualists present, complemented by Zhou Ziming, a prodigious talent in command from a renowned military academy, collectively forming an exceptionally formidable contingent.