Starting with a Wei Wu soldier

After a spring rain, the vegetation on Black Wind Ridge seemed to sprout tender buds overnight, and the air was filled with the moist scent of earth and vibrant life. Inside and outside Starfire Fortress, a bustling scene of all things thriving was also in full swing.

However, beneath the surface of vitality, an undercurrent is quietly surging.

As the movement of people and supplies between the western slope camp and the main stronghold of Xinghuo Fortress became more frequent, the presence of the Murong tribe's more than 300 people grew stronger day by day. The daily routine patrols and reconnaissance by the cavalry had become an indispensable part of the fortress's defenses; the herding experience provided by the Murong tribe had significantly improved the survival rate of livestock within the fortress; even the identification and usage of several cold-resistant herbs they brought were invaluable to Wang Jian's medical department.

Her achievements were undeniable, and Murong Mingyue's prestige among her own followers was unshakeable, quietly establishing itself in the hearts of the soldiers and civilians of Xinghuo Fortress as well. But at the same time, some subtle changes and the resulting unease began to sprout in the hearts of some of the "old guard."

The atmosphere in the council chamber was somewhat tense that day.

Chen Xing summoned all the current core members: Chen Wei, Zhao Tiezhu, Wu Xuejiu, Zhou Dashan, Wang Jian, Li Shu, and Murong Mingyue, who was present as the leader of the "guest army".

The topics discussed were the upcoming spring plowing mobilization and defense adjustments.

Spring plowing goes without saying; it is the most important matter of life and death at present. Zhao Tiezhu has already completed the inventory of all available manpower, animal power, and farm tools. He plans to divide the newly reclaimed and existing fields outside the fort into several blocks, implement a system of contracted management, assign responsibility to "teams," and establish "cultivation merit" to incentivize land reclamation efficiency.

The controversy arose over defense adjustments.

Based on recent intelligence gathered by the Murong cavalry during reconnaissance missions on the perimeter, and Chen Wei's assessment of the overall defense system, Chen Xing proposed a new plan: to expand the existing defensive perimeter outwards, using the Xipo camp, Xinghuo Fortress main camp, and two newly established outposts as key points to form a more comprehensive alert and defense network. This required a redeployment of troops, especially a strong mobile force to provide support to each point at any time.

"The Murong cavalry are elite and skilled, adept at field maneuvering, and perfectly suited for this important task." Chen Xing pointed to several points marked on the rough sand table. "The West Slope camp itself is an outpost, garrisoned by General Murong. His cavalry can be divided into several teams, taking turns patrolling between the various outposts to relay messages, warn of enemy activity, disperse or delay small groups of enemies, and quickly raise the alarm when faced with a large attack, while coordinating with the main camp or the West Slope to hold out for reinforcements."

He looked at Murong Mingyue: "General Murong, this task is arduous and concerns the safety of the entire fortress. I wonder if your troops are capable of undertaking it?"

Murong Mingyue rose and solemnly said, "It is my duty. My men are already eager to lead the charge. However," she paused for a moment, "with the patrol area expanding, the necessary horse feed, arrow supplies, and any minor losses must be clearly guaranteed. In addition, the communication signals and relay procedures between the various outposts must be carefully finalized with Commander Chen Wei to avoid misjudgment."

"These details can be drafted later by you, Chen Wei, and Li Shu," Chen Xing nodded, then said, "To coordinate the overall situation and facilitate command, I intend to establish the 'Sparkling Cavalry Command,' specifically responsible for perimeter patrols, reconnaissance, and mobile warfare. General Murong, you will temporarily assume the position of Commander of this Cavalry Command, with the rank... equivalent to the Deputy Commander of the Sparkling Camp, directly responsible to me and Chen Wei. Your elite cavalry will all be incorporated into the Cavalry Command's ranks, acting and recording merits according to my fortress's 'Military Regulations' and the newly established rules."

"The Commander of the Starfire Cavalry... is equivalent to a Deputy Commander?" Zhao Tiezhu suddenly raised his head, his face full of astonishment, and subconsciously repeated it. Zhou Dashan and Wang Jian also looked at each other, Wu Xuejiu stroked his beard and remained silent, while Chen Wei's expression was calm, as if he had expected it.

Murong Mingyue was also slightly taken aback. This appointment went a step further than the "Guest Army Leader" and "Independent Cavalry Commander" positions stipulated in the alliance; it practically formally incorporated her into the core military command of Xinghuo Fortress, placing her only below Chen Xing and Chen Wei, who was in charge of military affairs. She glanced at Chen Xing; his gaze was open and honest, clearly not an impulsive decision.

"With the Lord's trust, how could Mingyue dare not serve to the death?" She suppressed the turmoil in her heart, clasped her hands, and accepted the order.

"My lord!" Zhao Tiezhu finally couldn't hold back any longer, abruptly standing up, his face flushed. "I, Old Zhao, have something to say!"

"Tiezhu, speak." Chen Xing looked at him, his expression unchanged.

"I admire General Murong and her men's abilities! These past few days with them have shown them to be truly valiant!" Zhao Tiezhu gasped for breath, struggling to find the right words. "But... but this 'equivalent to Deputy Commander'... isn't it... a bit too fast? Our Xinghuo Camp was led by our Fortress Lord, along with Commander Chen, through countless battles, fighting our way out of mountains of corpses and seas of blood! So many old brothers died or were wounded to get to where we are today! Murong's troops have only been here a few days, and they've already made contributions, and now they're practically on par with Commander Chen, even in charge of the newly built 'Cadre Capital'... I... I'm afraid the old brothers below won't be satisfied!"

His words were blunt, even somewhat harsh, but they expressed the sentiments of many of the "older" people present. Zhou Dashan's lips moved, but he didn't speak, though his eyes revealed a hint of worry. Wang Jian remained silent, his head bowed.

Murong Mingyue remained calm, simply standing quietly with her gaze fixed on the sand table, as if she hadn't heard Zhao Tiezhu's words.

The council chamber was silent except for Zhao Tiezhu's heavy breathing.

Chen Xing remained silent for a moment, his gaze slowly sweeping over Zhao Tiezhu, Zhou Dashan, and Wang Jian, finally landing on Chen Wei: "Chen Wei, what do you think?"

Chen Wei rose, clasped his hands in a fist salute, and spoke in his usual steady voice: "My lord, I believe that extraordinary times call for extraordinary measures. Although General Murong's troops are newly recruited, their cavalry combat skills are exactly what our fortress needs. Establishing a cavalry command, specifically responsible for mobile operations on the outer lines, is the best choice under the current defensive situation. General Murong is a capable commander with proven military achievements; granting him this title is in accordance with his abilities and beneficial to the war effort. As for seniority," he paused, "the 'Order of Merit' states that one should not be judged by birth, but solely by merit. General Murong's abilities and the achievements of his troops constitute seniority. As for hard work, Commander Zhao, you all, and I will certainly remember it, but we must not let past relationships hinder the new policies or obstruct the path of the virtuous."

His words were clear and logical, affirming Murong Mingyue's abilities and role, clarifying that the appointment was based on actual needs and merit, and at the same time reassuring the elders.

Wu Xuejiu coughed lightly and said, "Tiezhu, I understand your thoughts. It's good to cherish old friendships and value loyalty. However, the fortress lord once said that to achieve great things, one must have a broad mind that embraces all rivers. The Murong tribe came to join us not to beg for food, but with elite cavalry, animal husbandry skills, and intelligence from the north—truly a powerful aid. If we discourage these brave warriors because of empty titles and ranks, or if their followers feel they are always 'guests' and find it difficult to truly join us, wouldn't that be a loss for our fortress in the long run? The fortress lord's promotion of General Murong is a demonstration of sincerity, proving our fortress's commitment to meritocracy and rewarding those who have made contributions. This is clear evidence of our ability to unite people's hearts and attract heroes from all directions."

Zhao Tiezhu opened his mouth, looking at Chen Wei, then at Wu Xuejiu, a feeling of suffocation rising in his chest, yet he didn't know how to refute it. It wasn't that he was unreasonable, but emotionally he found it hard to accept that an "outsider" had climbed to such a high position so quickly.

Chen Xing stood up, walked to Zhao Tiezhu, patted his broad shoulder, and said in a deep voice, "Tiezhu, I know that you and many other old brothers followed me from humble beginnings, through life and death, with deep and unwavering loyalty. I will never forget this bond. The foundation of Xinghuo Fortress will always be you brothers who have been with me through thick and thin from the very beginning!"

His tone was sincere, and Zhao Tiezhu's eyes reddened slightly as he lowered his head.

"However," Chen Xing's tone shifted, his voice rising as he surveyed the entire room, "if Starfire Fortress is to survive, to thrive, and to carve out a place in this chaotic world where all who follow us can find a place to live, we cannot rely solely on past ties, nor can we confine ourselves to a narrow path! We need talent, we need all kinds of forces! General Murong's arrival is a godsend for our fortress! Her talent is more than sufficient to qualify her for the position of Cavalry Commander! Granting her the appropriate authority is an acknowledgment of her abilities, a respect for her followers, and, more importantly, a declaration to everyone—in Starfire Fortress, as long as you have the ability, are willing to abide by the rules, and work together with us, there is a place for you here, a space for you to shine!"

He returned to his seat, his tone resolute: "My mind is made up on this matter. Murong Mingyue shall, effective immediately, officially assume the position of Commander-in-Chief of the Xinghuo Camp Cavalry, holding the same rank as the Deputy Commander, and shall be in charge of all cavalry and peripheral mobile defenses. The original Murong cavalry shall be reorganized into the First and Second Cavalry Units. Warriors from these units may be gradually selected to strengthen the Cavalry Units according to the 'Order of Merit' and their personal wishes. Specific reorganization and defense details shall be drafted and submitted by Chen Wei in conjunction with General Murong within three days."

"Zhao Tiezhu," he looked at Zhao Tiezhu, who still had his neck stiff, "You are in charge of land reclamation and cultivation, a weighty responsibility concerning the survival of the entire fortress. This is a fundamental matter, and no one else can fulfill it! I need you to ensure no major mistakes are made during the spring planting season, and I want to see granaries full of grain in the fall! Can you do it?"

Zhao Tiezhu shuddered, looking up to meet Chen Xing's trusting yet stern gaze. The pent-up frustration in his chest suddenly dissipated. Yes, clearing land and planting crops was also an extremely important task. The fact that the fortress lord entrusted him with such a heavy responsibility showed immense trust and reliance.

He clasped his hands in a fist and shouted, "Rest assured, my lord! I, Old Zhao, will risk my life to cultivate the land well! If there is no grain in the autumn, I will offer my head to you!"

"Alright!" Chen Xing nodded, then looked at Zhou Dashan, Wang Jian, and the others. "You are all pillars of the fortress, each fulfilling your duties. Xinghuo Fortress belongs to everyone, and no one's contribution will be forgotten in the merit book. I hope you will all unite sincerely and overcome these difficult times together!"

"We will obey the Lord's command!" everyone responded in unison, including Murong Mingyue.

After the meeting concluded, everyone went about their respective duties.

As Zhao Tiezhu stepped out of the council hall, the still-chilly early spring breeze cleared his head considerably. He glanced back at the figures inside, whispering amongst themselves with Chen Wei and Murong Mingyue, scratched his head, and muttered, "That makes sense... but I still feel a bit uneasy... Oh well, let's farm! Growing crops is better than anything else!"

He strode off toward the fields outside the fortress, his steps much lighter than when he came.

Inside the hall, Chen Wei and Murong Mingyue discussed the defense details for a few more minutes before taking their leave to draft specific regulations.

Only Chen Xing and Wu Xuejiu remained.

Wu Xuejiu sighed softly, "The Lord of the Fortress has given Tiezhu and the others a strong dose of medicine today."

Chen Xing rubbed his temples, looking slightly tired: "I have no choice but to go. The merger of the Murong tribes is both an opportunity and a test. If power is not distributed properly, people's hearts will easily fall apart. Tie Zhu values ​​loyalty, but his vision is sometimes limited to 'his own people.' I must make him, and everyone else, understand that the future of Xinghuo Fortress lies in 'openness' and 'rules,' not in 'cliques' and 'seniority.' Murong Mingyue is the first, but she will certainly not be the last."

"The Lord of the Fortress is farsighted," Wu Xuejiu nodded. "However, we still need to carefully reconcile the old and the new, lest we create discord. As for Tiezhu, I will find another opportunity to guide him."

"Thank you for your trouble, sir." Chen Xing looked out the window. "Power is a double-edged sword. When distributed properly, it unites people and directs their efforts towards a common goal; when distributed improperly, it breeds internal strife and leads to disintegration. Today is just the first step."

He knew that appointing Murong Mingyue was just the beginning. How to make this newly integrated force truly effective, how to balance the relationship between old and new subordinates, and how to completely integrate the Murong tribe into the Starfire Fortress system would be issues he would have to face and resolve for a long time to come.

But in any case, a new power structure has been established. Starfire Fortress, a small boat that has just weathered the initial storms, is now sailing into deeper and more unknown waters, carrying more people and hopes, as well as more complex internal relationships.