Chapter Nine: Reorganizing the Army

The world today is in turmoil...

Did we not all join the Yellow Turbans simply to have enough to eat, to avoid starving to death? Furthermore, joining the Yellow Turban army was for the hope of a better future. But an official is an official, and a bandit is a bandit—these two paths are irreconcilable. There is no future for a thief, and I trust you all understand this well.

Why not come to Youzhou and join the Youzhou army instead?

General, we are already deeply grateful that you do not look down on us for our origins among the Yellow Turbans. Now, you even offer us a place in the Youzhou army—how could we possibly refuse? The burly man at the head of the group spoke up, and the others echoed their agreement.

"Yes, that's right!"

Zifan noticed that this man commanded much respect among the Yellow Turbans. His extraordinary height—nine feet tall—made him stand out among them.

He asked, "May I know your esteemed name?"

The man replied, "I am Yue Feng."

"Very well. I see you have considerable influence among your peers. From today onward, I appoint you as Captain. Join the Youzhou army immediately and see to your duties without delay."

"Understood, General! Thank you for your great kindness." Yue Feng clasped his fists in gratitude, his face full of emotion.

In the inner courtyard of the General's residence in Youzhou City—

"General, you intend to move into the barracks and manage the soldiers yourself. But this does not befit your status," Ding Feng said, rising and saluting.

Guo Jia added, "I understand, Brother, you wish to improve the army’s fighting strength. But why endure the hardships of camp life when you could live comfortably in the governor’s residence? You are now the Governor of Youzhou; why subject yourself to suffering?"

"No need to persuade me, Guo Jia. My mind is made up. Living and eating with the soldiers will strengthen our bonds. Now that we've just incorporated the Yellow Turbans, my presence will steady their hearts and allow me to oversee their training. It’s settled."

"Very well, if your mind is set, we will not try to dissuade you."

Ding Feng, pass down my orders.

First, from today, there will be three training sessions daily. Whenever possible, make sure every meal includes meat—only with strength can the soldiers train better and build true fighting power.

Second, gather all the soldiers and arrange them in a pinwheel formation. Ding Feng, you will lead one thousand Black Riders at the front, and select another thousand men from the ranks to join you. The strong will thrive, the weak will be dismissed. I want the best of the best—men with courage and no fear of death.

Dian Wei will lead five thousand Tiger Guards on the left. Select the elite among them for training, especially those with special skills.

Yue Feng will command three thousand on the right. See to their equipment and the selection of soldiers—do not neglect your duties.

"Yes, General," the three replied in unison.

"Good. I expect you to lead the training well. I will observe daily; do not let me catch you slacking or neglecting your duties, or you will be punished according to military law.

While I am in the barracks, Guo Jia, I leave the administration of Youzhou to you. Xu Maogong will assist you—manage the gathering of provisions and oversee finances."

"Understood. We will not disappoint you, General."

At the Youzhou barracks—

"Gather the soldiers, I have something to say." On the drill field, Zifan, Ding Feng, and the others stood tall.

Outside, a sea of men—all in armor—stood at attention, chests out, exuding might and spirit, their aura as though they could move mountains.

Zifan stepped onto the platform and declared, "Generals die in a hundred battles; soldiers return after ten years. We must build an altar in the camp to honor our fallen brothers, and make a grand offering—a full ox, sheep, and pig—to dedicate to our battle standards."

In ancient times, soldiers were deeply faithful, believing that after death they would ascend to heaven—if not blessed in life, then at least secure in death. Now, with a general who truly cares for them, how could they not be devoted?

To raise our fighting strength, there will be three trainings a day, a minor drill every three days, a major drill every five. I, Zifan, will share in your hardships. From today, three meals a day with meat for all. Brothers, do you agree? Can you endure it?

The soldiers stirred. Hard as it was, the thought of meat at every meal was overwhelming. They shouted loudly, "Mighty! Mighty!" Their voices shook the heavens.

Seeing the troops’ high spirits, Zifan nodded with satisfaction and smiled at Ding Feng, "Well?"

"An excellent strategy, General. The soldiers are obedient and full of vigor. You've rallied their hearts—soon, we will have a truly strong army."

After a while, Zifan spoke again, "I am here today to befriend all of you. I will eat what you eat, live where you live, and share your hardships and joys."

"Long live the General! Long live the General!" The soldiers cheered with fervor. The General is living among us! He esteems us so highly! Long live the General! We will follow you through hardship and joy.

Since moving into the camp, Zifan endured all hardships with the soldiers, often conversing with them and greatly strengthening their cohesion. Being a soldier is a test of endurance—you reap what you sow, and the camaraderie among soldiers is unlike any other.

Every morning, at the sound of the war drums, the entire camp would rise and practice the "Ten Formations": square, circle, loose, number, wedge, wild goose, hook, mysterious, water, and fire formations.

In the desert winds and under the dim sun, the red banners unfurled at the gates.

No matter how hard it was, Zifan gritted his teeth and persisted. Sharing hardship is not just a slogan. Many times, he wanted to give up, but through sheer will, he endured—dripping with sweat and covered in blisters.

In the camp, Zifan read military books and strategies every day, rising before dawn and retiring late, his life growing ever more disciplined. Seeing their commander train so hard, the soldiers worked all the harder.

Day by day, the camaraderie and fighting spirit grew. Those once skin and bone, sallow and gaunt, now had muscle. Their darkened skin bore the marks of training, and their eyes began to shine with vigor.