Chapter 47: Sudden Mutation

The Zhenyi Battalion originally numbered three to four hundred men. After assigning some to maintain order outside Wangjiang City, only about three hundred were available for battle. Now, from Sun Fushan to the Tu family, they had gained two thousand able-bodied warriors, rapidly expanding their strength. Yet no one knew if they could rally more forces later.

Still, Xue Chengqian was not in a hurry to set out and test their luck. He insisted that his brothers continue training by the Nu River. At the same time, he sent envoys ahead to explain matters to Sun Fushan, instructing them to both scout the situation at Dongping City and await their rendezvous. He also sent messengers to the Tu family, whom they did not know well. Mr. Ying Mo had only said that the family was loyal and righteous and would cooperate for the sake of the northern people. But if they were to turn hostile upon contact, it would spell trouble.

Xue Chengqian understood that in the northern borderlands, there were not only court troops and northern barbarian cavalry but many powerful clans with fortified strongholds. These clans had long gathered their kin and tenants within fortress walls to evade the barbarians. Each noble family had private soldiers who fought fiercely for their own, fearless even in death. Even the northern barbarians were reluctant to assault these fortresses, wary of the retaliation they might face in their rear. The Zhenyi Battalion was no exception.

Although Xue had his reasons, even Luo Fang could not understand his decision this time. “Brother Xue, since we promised Miss Wei to save her father, shouldn’t we act decisively? Starting training only now feels a bit half-hearted.” Luo Fang, himself an expert in training troops, knew that effective training required long-term dedication. A last-minute drill wouldn’t forge elite soldiers.

Xue Chengqian then shared his thoughts. “I believe Wei Xiao is a reasonable person. She will understand my approach. If we want truly elite troops, short-term drilling won’t suffice. But since we’re already near Dongping and have engaged the northern barbarians there, I want to conduct targeted special training before formally deploying.”

Luo Fang shook his head, still skeptical of the effectiveness. Xue Chengqian, sensing his doubts, changed the subject. “Even if all goes well and Sun Fushan’s and the Tu family’s troops join our Zhenyi Battalion, do you think it’s all good, Old Luo?”

Surprised, Luo Fang replied, “Of course it’s good. Isn’t having more soldiers better?”

Having never been a commander, Luo Fang couldn’t foresee all issues. Xue sighed, “Our own forces number barely three hundred, while the newcomers are two thousand strong—each group thrice our size. If they take control, Old Luo, how will you handle that?”

Luo Fang slapped his thigh, suddenly realizing the gravity. “That’s the point! Though we’ve defeated the barbarians and gained some prestige in the north, true strength lies in our own troops. Otherwise, we’ll be underestimated.”

Xue pointed to the nearby refugees. “That’s why these tens of thousands of displaced people remain our foundation. After merging with them, we can initially use our reputation to command respect and then swiftly build loyal forces under our direct control. This isn’t distrust toward Sun Fushan or the Tu family, but a precaution against internal strife.”

Luo Fang nodded thoughtfully. “I understand. Many refugees now heed us. Without Lu Xiaoyuan’s interference, we won’t lack provisions. They’re bound to us. I’ll arrange for Kang Yu to recruit more men among them into Zhenyi Battalion.”

Previously, both Luo Fang and Xue had deliberately limited new recruits, knowing that quality mattered more than quantity. A rabble lacking courage against the barbarians would break and flee, causing entire units to collapse. Moreover, Lu Xiaoyuan had not supplied them with weapons; they could only arm their brothers with spoils.

Now, the situation was different. They needed not only elite soldiers ready for battle but also to increase numbers. Once Sun Fushan and the Tu family’s forces joined, they could at least outnumber their opponents.

Wei Xiao was indeed understanding. Though anxious to rescue Dongping and her father, upon hearing Xue’s explanation, she did not urge immediate deployment but instead cared for little Luzhu.

Kang Yu soon selected over five hundred able-bodied men. With ample food and full bellies every day, the refugees’ complexions and physiques improved noticeably; they looked the part of soldiers.

Upon receiving the news, Luo Fang immediately took Xue Chengqian to inspect. “Hey, you’re better at training than I am, Old Luo. If you approve these men, they won’t disappoint.”

Luo Fang replied, “You have a good eye for talent. Come with me to examine these new recruits. If we find truly capable men, we’ll promote them early.”

Luo Fang was likely thinking of himself. During his time in the border army, whether one called it ambition or outright greed, he had never earned the respect of superiors and failed even to become a captain. Now that Zhenyi Battalion was expanding, they needed capable subordinates. Old comrades like Wang Huzi were loyal but lacked leadership skills—good warriors but not future commanders.

Resigned, Xue accompanied him. From afar, they saw Kang Yu had arranged the five hundred men in neat ranks, exuding a certain spirit. Both Luo Fang and Xue were pleased.

“Kang Yu has really matured lately, learned to temper her temper and be more patient,” Luo remarked.

Xue realized it had been a long time since Kang Yu had caused him any trouble.

As they approached, Kang Yu proudly announced her achievements. Despite their ragged cotton clothes, it was clear these men were in good physical condition.

Seeing these new recruits gathered, Xue felt a sudden impulse to use the system’s reward function to check their loyalty.

But when he activated it, his expression changed drastically.

Among these new soldiers lurked several murderous intents—not mere hostility, but genuine intent to kill them at any moment!

“Bad news! Old Luo, Kang Yu, fall back quickly!” Xue urgently warned, drawing his blade.

At that moment, thick smoke rose suddenly from the refugee camp, accompanied by panicked screams.