Disclaimer: I do not own Dynasty Warriors. The Dynasty warriors franchise is owned by their respective owners.
Dark clouds hovered high in the sky, an ominous sign for anyone even slightly superstitious. With the turmoil in the land growing each day, the townsfolk feared today was the day it would reach their town.
However, as the morning started, so did an unexpected visit from their lord. His sudden appearance eased their restlessness. Brian rode on his horse for a second consecutive day through the main streets, his advisor at his side. "Good morning, Lord Brian!" random citizens welcomed their lord, unlike the day before.
Brian returned the welcome with a warm response and continued to ride through town, heading to a certain house on the outskirts. One of the few constructors of the town lived there, and now more than ever, Brian required his assistance.
He knocked on the door, and a few seconds later, an older man answered. "I have nothing...?" the man started, only to realize it was not a mere businessman standing at his doorstep. "My apologies, milord!" he instantly apologized, bowing deeply.
"That is not needed. Is this the Gong Residence?" Brian asked politely.
"Yes, it is. I am Gong Jo. What can I do for you, milord?" Gong Jo asked.
Brian looked at the sky as he answered, "It seems like it is going to rain soon, so could you let us in? I have something to ask you."
"Of course, milord! Please come in." Gong Jo immediately responded, letting Brian and Delan into his small home. "Can I offer you some tea, or anything else?"
"I do not need anything," Brian responded. As Brian's advisor Delan didn't require anything as well, the old man sat down. The room was modestly furnished, with simple wooden chairs and a low table, yet it was tidy and well-kept. Brian took a moment to observe the room, noticing the detailed sketches and blueprints scattered on the table. Before Gong Jo could start, Brian asked, "According to my advisor here, you are one of the best constructors in town. Is that true?"
Gong Jo smiled as he answered, "I am sorry, but I don't think I can answer that, milord. If one would call himself the best, would he truly be the best? I am an experienced architect, though."
Brian smiled as he responded, "That is a perfect answer. I have a job for you if you are willing to take it."
"Always. What can I help you with?" the architect answered almost instantly, his posture changing to an intrigued one. I got his attention. Perfect. Now just trying to keep it. Just as Brian wanted to tell his request, a girl of his former age walked in. She had dark short hair, wore old common Chinese clothing, and had a quite hostile gaze. She wasn't beautiful or pretty in the slightest, but what drew Brian's gaze was the pencil-like instrument stuck behind her right ear.
"Who are you?" she asked rudely, staring at the two men, not recognizing her lord, nor trying to be polite in the slightest.
"Chen!" Gong Jo tried to silence her, fearing the offer he was about to get would no longer be valid. Delan wanted to move, but Brian just smiled, finding the rudeness refreshing compared to the polite lords he had encountered. Instead, he caught sight of the small instrument in her hands and answered, "A potential customer of your father's services. My name is Brian Miller, Miss Gong." The girl's eyes shot open in instant shock, realizing she had badmouthed the lord of her land, and her body instantly tensed up. However, Brian kept his smile as he asked, "Excuse me for asking, but are you a draftsman by any chance?"
"Ye... yes, my lord," the girl stuttered in fear.
Ah, come on. Please don't do that, Brian thought disappointedly. The father looked fearful, and the daughter remained frightened when Brian finally eased their worry as he said, "Let me guess. You taught your daughter how to draw to help you in the business. Am I wrong?" Gong Jo hesitantly nodded his head. "Perfect. Then take a seat and listen to my request, Miss Gong." The father looked strictly to the side, ordering his daughter to sit down immediately with his eyes alone. The girl did not even hesitate as she quickly walked forward and sat down as politely and courteously as possible. "For my request, I have plans to reconstruct the town. The streets, the houses, the plaza—I want everything restored to as good as new. Can you do it, Mister Gong?"
The architect looked worried as he answered, "It is a big project, milord... Even if I had the manpower for this job, I do not have the resources for it."
Brian did not even waver as he responded, "That's not a problem. I will provide you with the resources you need and the manpower you need. In exchange, restore this town to a place we can be proud of."
The architect nodded as he felt his confidence grow and responded, "Very well, milord. You can count on me."
Brian's mansion was surprisingly large. It had to be three times the size of the constructor's house, if not more, if Brian had to guess from the outside alone, and it showed on the inside as well. The walls were adorned with intricate tapestries and paintings, giving the place an air of nobility and history. The Emperor had taken a position on the east side of his house, but even with those three rooms occupied, Brian still had plenty of space to live in.
Brian marveled at the sheer size and opulence of his new home. This place is massive. Nothing like my tiny apartment. I guess being a lord has its perks. He couldn't help but feel a pang of homesickness, thinking of his old life, his friends, and his family. But he quickly pushed those thoughts aside, focusing on the task at hand.
At this very moment, Brian found himself in a medium-sized room used for small gatherings and meetings. The room was filled with the scent of aged wood and parchment. He stood there, watching the different maps Mi Tong had gathered throughout the night and early morning. "My apologies for the long delay, Lord Brian. My informant network is not what it used to be," the man apologized.
Brian looked over the maps of various grounds, including his very own town, a map of ancient China, and a map of the surrounding resources and enemies. Not what it used to be...? How enormous is that informant network of yours?! he thought, shocked.
"You have done well," Brian responded, trying to hide the shock from his expression. He looked at the marker that indicated their town on the large map, noting they were on the northwest side of ancient China, near the Yellow River in the province of Yong. He looked at the other pins on the map and asked, "What are these?"
"Future threats, my lord," the knight answered. He pointed a bit further to the side and said, "The warlord Sun Quan is currently stationed here. He is the son of the famous Sun Jian and the younger brother of the infamous Sun Ce of Wu." Mi Tong pointed to the next marker as he continued, "In the south of the Ji Province, the nobility Yuan Shao rules, and further north, strong warlords like Dong Zhuo and wizards live." Wizards? They must be Zuo Ci and Zhang Jiao. Continuing west, he added, "In the Yu Province, the warlord Cao Cao is ruling with an iron fist, and further down south, the mighty warrior Lu Bu resides."
Brian looked unaffected as he asked, "What about the provinces Yu, Jing, Qing, Yang, Yan, and Liang?"
Mi Tong looked perplexed and amazed that those big names meant nothing to his lord. "R...right! Yu is currently under the rule of Sima Yi, Jing is under the control of the virtuous Liu Bei, and Liang is where the wild king Meng Huo rules. I have no information on the provinces Yang, Yan, and Qing." So many famous names dropped in just a few minutes...
"That doesn't matter. Since those are too far away, for the time being, we should work on our surroundings. Good work, Mi Tong."
The knight bowed with a smile. He shifted to another map and said, "Very well. If I can give you a piece of advice..."
"We should be focusing our attention on uniting the province of Yong, starting with the north. That way, we can focus our efforts on one side instead of being cautious of our flanks when we proceed to conquer the south," Brian filled in, understanding the knight perfectly.
"Yes, you are right, my lord," Mi Tong responded. Although there was relief in his voice, there was a slight irritation in the response as well.
"My apologies. It was not my intention to interrupt you." Seeing a slight change in Mi Tong's expression, he shifted his eyes to the map of his nearby surroundings and asked, "What are these blue markers?"
"Those are important resource locations. To the north of this village lies the Yellow River. The surrounding areas are filled with strong trees and plenty of wildlife. It should help us keep the production of food. Here to the east is a cave used to find the stone that can be used to develop the town. To the west, there is a mineral mine famous for its treasures," Mi Tong answered, a proud tone in his voice.
Can you be any more obvious in your pride? Brian thought, annoyed as he kept his gaze on the maps. He wanted to comment on it when the door of the room opened, and a shockingly worried Delan stepped in. "My lord! We have a problem!"
"What is it, Delan?" Brian asked, surprisingly calm now that he knew the board pieces of the game.
"We received word there is a bandit group nearby! The farmers from Enkuma are already heading to our town to seek protection, but I am not sure if they will arrive here in time," the advisor answered worriedly.
A message appeared in Brian's HUD, indicating a battle was activated. Unconventional Battle: A battle of defense, in which fame can be easily earned. There are reports Bo Zhang is participating in this battle. Brian read internally. Bo Zhang? One of the Yellow Turban rebels? But Zhang Jiao is on the other side of the country? Well, I can't worry about that now. Let's get this started!
With an iron-steeled expression, he shifted his eyes to his advisor and asked, "Where are they?"
"To the north! My lord, what are..." Delan asked worriedly, yet had no time to fully ask the question.
"Delan, prepare my horse. I am going to visit those bandits," Brian commanded as he walked out of the meeting room, pulled on four pieces of armor—which were his skills—grabbed his strongest swords from the wall, and walked outside.
"My lord!" Mi Tong shouted as he rushed to him with armor and spear at the ready. A few more less-armored knights appeared at their side as if they were all ready to assist in battle. "Let us join you!" Oh yeah... he was assigned as my bodyguard... What a bother.
"Very well. Follow me and do not hold back," Brian answered as he took the harness of his horse and rode towards the battlefield.
The thunderous sound of hooves pounded the ground as Brian and his knights charged forward. The wind whipped around them, stirred by the insane speed of their mounts. Exhausted townsfolk, who had just escaped a group of bandits, watched in awe and relief as the knights galloped past.
"My lord! What's the plan?" Mi Tong asked, his voice barely audible over the wind as he rode swiftly beside Brian.
"Charge in and strike before they know what hit them. Make them surrender as quickly as possible," Brian commanded calmly. The tranquility in his voice came from seeing the upcoming fight as a game—a game he needed to win. After another five minutes of riding, he wondered where the bandits could be. It was then that his gaming instincts kicked in.
A map of the battlefield appeared in his HUD, with blue dots indicating allies and red for enemies. This makes things easier. A familiar tune, the Yellow Turban OST, began to play, signaling the start of the battle. A new message flashed: Zhang Jun is isolated. Zhang Jun is in trouble. Assist him at once!
Brian's thoughts were interrupted by a young man with a short sword running toward him, shouting, "Please! Please, save Master Zhang Jun! He's trying to keep the bandits occupied, but he's in danger!"
Without hesitation, Brian leaned almost horizontally on his horse, pulled the young man from the ground, and placed him on the back of his saddle. "Where is he?" Brian asked, already turning his horse towards the direction.
Mi Tong, riding behind Brian, watched in awe. Wow. He is amazing, he thought. I didn't know he could do that. Perhaps he truly can reunite the land. Little did Mi Tong know, this was only a fraction of Brian's strength, honed by countless hours as a protagonist in the game.
"Behind that gate!" the young man guided urgently. "We have to hurry!"
As they approached the gate, the scene unfolded before them. A small battle raged, with at least thirty men surrounding a smaller group. In the center, a wounded allied officer struggled, identified by his blue health bar and name. Opposite him stood an enemy officer with a familiar name: Yan Zheng.
"Master Zhang Jun!" the young man on Brian's saddle shouted. "We came back to save you!"
"Charge! Do not let them retreat!" Mi Tong commanded, leading the knights forward. The horses plowed through the crowd, scattering bandits as they reached the wounded soldiers. Brian's body moved automatically as if his actions were scripted by his gaming experience. He leaped off his horse, rolled forward onto his feet, and stood ready for battle.
The air was thick with the stench of sweat and blood. The cries of the wounded mingled with the clash of steel, creating a cacophony that would unnerve any normal person. But Brian felt a strange sense of calm wash over him. This is just like the game. I can do this.
"What's going on?!" one of the bandits shouted, panic evident in his voice.
"Who cares?! Kill that bastard!" another bandit yelled, charging at Brian with a sword. The bandit was not prepared for what followed.
With a swift sidestep and a precise move, Brian disarmed the bandit, who stumbled back in shock. "Wha...What just happened...?"
"Stand back, men! He is mine!" Yan Zheng bellowed, turning to face Brian. "I'm going to have your head!"
I can't waste any time on this guy. Let's get this over with! Brian thought as he charged forward. Yan Zheng, caught off guard, tried to assume a defensive stance. Their swords clashed, Brian's sword sweeping upward, disarming Yan Zheng. Another swift slash cleaved through his chest armor and clothes, narrowly missing his skin.
Brian's movements were fluid and practiced, each strike calculated. Yan Zheng's eyes widened as he realized he was completely outmatched. "Wh... who are you?" Yan Zheng asked, breathless and defeated.
"My name is Brian Miller. I am the lord of these lands," Brian replied calmly. "I do not like unnecessary bloodshed. Tell your men to surrender, and I will spare their lives." Glancing at a fallen bandit, he added, "But if you come with intent to kill, I will not hesitate to defend myself."
Brian's intense stare conveyed honesty and resolve. His blade was ready but not threatening. Yan Zheng, recognizing the sincerity in Brian's eyes, finally said, "Very well. I accept my defeat. Do as you please with me."
At that moment, a message appeared before Brian: Rescued Zhang Jun! Gained 250 fame!
"Mi Tong, bring these bandits to our town. Treat them with care," Brian instructed. Almost immediately, a new message flashed: Peasants are under attack by bandits! Save the peasants!
A distant scream for help reached Brian's ears. It was all the motivation he needed. With a sharp whistle, his horse came galloping back. In one fluid motion, Brian grabbed the harness and mounted the running horse.
"Lord Brian?!" Mi Tong shouted, surprised by Brian's agility.
"I will take care of the remaining bandits. Escort the prisoners back to town and meet me when you are done," Brian commanded as he rode off, leaving Mi Tong to manage the subdued bandits.
As Brian rode through the woods, the sounds of battle fading behind him, he felt a strange mixture of exhilaration and fear. This is real. I'm really here. And these people... they depend on me. The weight of responsibility settled heavily on his shoulders. He had saved Zhang Jun, but there were more lives at stake.
He arrived at a small clearing where a group of bandits had cornered a cluster of peasants. The bandit leader, a burly man with a cruel grin, was shouting orders.
"Please..." a woman pleaded, her voice trembling as she shielded her child from the armored men. "Let us go..."
"Can't do that, love! We need to earn some money, and you two are just merchandise to us. Now, when is that annoying bastard coming already?" The bandit leader asked, glancing to the side. Don't tell me he got beaten by that stupid knight. A grin spread across his lips at the thought. That would be hilarious.
As he continued to smile at the idea of his arrogant colleague losing to a mere knight, the woman's terrified gaze swept over her surroundings. Her child cowered behind her, unable to flee with bandits everywhere. Other women, children, and some men were also captured, one wrong move could mean disaster for them all. The situation looked hopeless.
The sound of an approaching horse stiffened her even more. "Finally, that took them long enough. Now, let...?!"
Before the bandit leader could react, a knight rode past him, and with a swift motion, incapacitated him. The other bandits froze in shock, and the knight seized the moment. His blade moved with precision, disarming and neutralizing those who posed a threat. It was over before it even began.
As the bandits lay subdued, the mysterious knight turned to the shocked woman and said, "It is safe now. Are you alright?"
The realization dawned quickly, and as soon as her strength returned, she stood and answered, "Y-yes! Thank you! Who are you?"
The black-haired knight's eyes were kind and honest as he replied, "I am Brian Miller, the lord of these lands. I came as soon as I heard these bandits were causing trouble for my people." A new message popped up, showing he had again acquired 250 fame. If you please excuse me, I have one more thing to do.
As he whistled his horse to him and rode away towards the last enemy officer, a new hope started to arise inside the people who watched him leave.
Thirty minutes later. Bandits' hideout.
A spear danced between his hands, its user locking his eyes on the sudden intruder. Apart from the armor, the man didn't look special at all. It was a normal guy with a simple one-handed sword. If that's all true, why do I feel so anxious? Bo Zhang wondered.
If the rumors were true, this man had been the reason for the bandits' failed attempt to earn money. And now, that same man stood before them, leaving nothing behind but fresh corpses. "I don't know who you are, but you'll soon regret coming out here alone!" Bo Zhang mocked before charging in with his spear.
He was quick, and although the mysterious knight blocked his spear multiple times, that first charge had Bo Zhang feeling confident of victory. "What are you waiting for? Stab him!" the bandit leader commanded his followers. However, before his men could attack, something unexpected happened.
It was as if the air momentarily stood still before a blindingly fast movement from the knight sent a shockwave through the cave. The force hurled several bandits against the walls, leaving them motionless. The sudden silence was filled only with the echoes of the impact. The knight stood firm, his sword now pointed at the bandit leader's neck. "Submit. Enough blood has been spilled today."
"Who do you think you are to make demands?! You came to attack us!" Bo Zhang tried to accuse.
"I am Lord Brian Miller, the lord of these lands. As the lord of my land, it is my responsibility to keep my people safe." The eyes of the bandits widened with a mix of shock and realization. "If you wish to break that peace by attacking them, I will stop you. Now, stay down and submit, or face the consequences."
A defiant bandit decided not to listen and rushed forward with his sword. In a blur of motion, Brian's swift action left the man crumpled to the ground, his weapon clattering away. "That was your only warning."
Bo Zhang's eyes narrowed slightly, a flicker of defiance still lingering. "We will do as you say, Lord Brian," he replied, the words begrudgingly leaving his mouth.
Brian nodded, his sword still at the ready. "Good. Now, gather your men and prepare to return to the town. Any attempt to escape will be met with force."
As the bandits complied, Brian took a moment to survey the scene. The hideout was filled with stolen goods and supplies. He realized that reclaiming these resources would greatly benefit the town.
Brian whistled sharply, signaling for his knights to secure the bandits and await reinforcements. Mi Tong arrived shortly after, his expression a mix of relief and respect. "Lord Brian, are you alright?"
"I'm fine, Mi Tong. Ensure these bandits are secured and send word to the town for additional men to transport the stolen goods," Brian instructed.
Mi Tong nodded and relayed the orders. The knights quickly bound the bandits and set up a perimeter around the hideout, ensuring no one could escape. Brian kept a close watch on Bo Zhang and his men, the bandit leader's resentment palpable.
I can do this, Brian thought, determination steeling his resolve. I will bring peace and prosperity to this land.
As they waited for reinforcements, Brian's mind raced with plans and strategies. He knew earning the bandits' genuine respect and trust would take time and effort. But he was prepared for the challenge.
Victory!
Results:
Enemies defeated: 76. Gold Acquired: 0. Exp acquired: 476.
Gold:
Reward: 1000. Difficulty bonus: 30. Total gold: 1030.
Exp:
Difficulty Bonus: 16. To Next level: 212.
Brian Miller: lv. 3. Level up!
Leadership: lv. 4. Level up!
As Brian entered his town, a summary of the previous battle displayed in his HUD. The townspeople looked at him with new expressions—amazement, and a hint of anxiousness.
"My lord! I am glad to see you alright," Delan said as he hurried to Brian's side. "You are alright, right?"
"I am fine, Delan. Where are Mi Tong and the prisoners?" Brian asked, avoiding mention of his minor injuries.
"Mi Tong has taken them to the prison on the northeast side of town, my lord. I'll ensure those criminals receive appropriate punishment quickly," Delan replied.
"There is no need. Bring me to the prison," Brian ordered calmly, trying to stay composed despite the fatigue from battle.
Delan looked momentarily confused but complied without question. "Very well, sir. This way."
Fifteen minutes later. Prison grounds.
The prison was as small as Brian had imagined, barely accommodating the captured bandits. He noticed the bandits working in the fields, chains around their ankles but otherwise treated with care.
"Milord, what can I help you with?" the prison warden, Di Ma, asked, looking slightly worried.
"I came to see the prisoners. Di Ma, can you bring both bandit leaders to me?" Brian asked kindly.
Di Ma hesitated. "If you may forgive my boldness, what do you need those prisoners for? If this is about their punishment, I..."
"I understand your concern, Di Ma. This is not solely about their punishment. I need to speak with them. Please, bring them to me," Brian said gently.
Di Ma nodded and left to fetch the bandit leaders. Brian waited patiently, his mind already considering the next steps. These men could be valuable assets if I can turn them around, he thought.
Moments later, Di Ma returned with the two bandit leaders in tow, their expressions a mix of defiance and fear. Their shackles were attached to an iron ring in the middle of the area, ensuring they couldn't pose any threat.
"You wanted to see us, Lord?" one of the bandit leaders sneered, trying to mask his apprehension.
"Yes," Brian began, his tone firm but not unkind. "I have an offer for you. Work for me and earn your redemption, or continue down the path you've chosen and face the consequences. The choice is yours."
The bandits exchanged glances, uncertainty written on their faces. The opportunity for a second chance was not something they had expected.
"Join me, and see for yourself," Brian continued as he led them to the interrogation area and waited for the two prisoners to be seated. He gestured towards the simple wooden stools in front of him. "Please take a seat. We have much to discuss."
Bo Zhang snorted as he questioned, "Discuss? What is there to discuss with you?"
The guards, tense and ready to react, were halted by Brian's raised hand. His calm demeanor conveyed control. His gaze shifted to Yan Zhang, whose silence and thoughtful expression piqued Brian's curiosity. Eventually, Yan Zhang looked up and asked, "Although I doubt I am of much use to you, what do you want to know?"
Bo Zhang's eyes widened in surprise, but before he could react furiously to his subordinate, a spear was thrust between them, separating the two. Bo Zhang turned his hateful glare back to Brian, noticing the subtle nod that had prompted the guard's action. "You...!" he growled.
"Let me ask you a question. What do you value the most in this world?" Brian asked, ignoring Bo Zhang's glare.
Bo Zhang grinned, his answer immediate and predictable. "What kind of stupid question is that? Money, of course!" Predictable. You really don't think things through, do you? Brian thought.
The more thoughtful Yan Zhang paused, contemplating the question before answering. "Freedom."
An American... Well, at least he thinks before answering, Brian mused.
Bo Zhang laughed mockingly. "Freedom? What good is that?"
Brian smiled, but not in a way that could be interpreted as insulting. "Shall we test it?" he asked, pulling a small bag of gold from his pocket and placing it just out of Bo Zhang's reach. "This is 200 gold. From this moment on, it is yours. If you continue to do a good job, you can earn more than this. Fail at your work, and you get paid nothing." He then turned his attention to one of the guards and pointed at Yan Zhang. "Free this man's hands."
The guard hesitated for a moment but then followed the order. Yan Zhang flexed his freed hands, looking at Brian with a mix of curiosity and suspicion.
Bo Zhang's face twisted in confusion and anger. "What kind of game are you playing?"
"No game," Brian replied calmly. "A simple proposition. You value money, and you can earn it by serving me. You value freedom," he turned to Yan Zhang, "and you can regain it through loyalty and service. I offer you both a chance to change your lives."
The room fell silent as the bandit leaders absorbed Brian's words. The air was thick with tension and unspoken questions. Brian waited, his calm and steady gaze meeting each of theirs in turn, challenging them to make their choice.
Yan Zhang finally spoke, his voice measured. "And what guarantee do we have that you will keep your word?"
Brian leaned forward slightly, his eyes intent. "My word is my bond. Fail me, and you return to these chains. Succeed, and you earn your freedom and wealth. It's your choice."
Bo Zhang looked between the bag of gold and Brian, a flicker of greed in his eyes, while Yan Zhang's thoughtful expression deepened. The silence stretched, filled with the weight of their decision.
An expression of greed suddenly turned to shock, and one of confusion changed to shocking happiness. As the guard opened the handcuffs, Brian said, "From this day on, you can earn your freedom back. Each day you do a good job, you earn the freedom to walk through this town and enjoy its facilities. Each day you slack off, these prison grounds are the only thing you see."
"What's this for bullshit, you bastard?!" Bo Zhang growled as he tried to grab the money, yet could not reach it.
"Don't worry," Brian answered calmly. "The money is yours. It is just that you don't have the freedom to spend it. Your money will be kept safely in a deposit until you are free." Switching his gaze back to Yan Zhang, he said, "You may have the freedom to walk where you can, but you lack everything else."
Bo Zhang growled, annoyed and humiliated, but Yan Zhang was different. With wondering eyes, as if trying to understand the situation, he asked, "What was the right answer to this question?"
"There is none. For everything you would have chosen, you had to give something up in return. Don't try to be greedy and think you can get everything you want; just be content with what you can get," Brian answered. It was a lesson he was teaching them, one that was necessary for his plan.
"Easy for you to say, you rich bastard! Sitting there all high and mighty!"
"And yet, I fight a couple of bandits instead of enjoying the riches you desire," Brian retorted, his patience wearing thin. "If you wish to die so quickly, please continue with the lack of manners. In the land I am trying to create, there is no place for imbeciles like you." In one quick motion, he pointed his sword just in front of Bo Zhang's chest. "Just say the word, and I will send you to the afterlife."
Brian's eyes glared at him with an unknown fury. Bo Zhang's expression turned to one of fright, and any words he was about to retort could not leave his mouth for a reason unknown. Yan Zhang tried to ignore it as he asked, "What is this world you are trying to create, sir?"
Brian turned back to normal as he answered, "A land where we do not have to be afraid if we can eat tonight or tomorrow. A land where opportunities are taken and prosperity is ruled not only by the riches but also by the poor. A land with equal opportunities, where name and rank matter little."
"Is such a land possible?" Yan Zhang asked.
"It should be," Brian answered. Finally reaching the end of his little lesson, he asked, "The question remains if you are willing to help me with that task or not. You have a choice: You either stay my prisoners, work in the fields, and slowly regain your life back in ten to twenty years, or you join alongside me to realize this ambition of mine with your talents. What will it be?"
"Talents? We are bandits! We don't have any talent," Bo Zhang exclaimed.
Brian looked to the side, where several bandits were cuffed and worked on the fields they were assigned. "With someone leading a bunch of renegades like that successfully, I beg to differ. Whether it is leadership, knowledge of supply and demand, or simply knowing how to make them listen, you have gifts. The question is, can you flourish them under my wing, or will you desperately cling to your old life?"
"You truly think there is a place in society for bandits like us?" Yan Zhang asked hopefully. A single nod was all he needed. Bowing his head, he finally spoke the words Brian was waiting for. "I hereby pledge my loyalty to you, Lord Brian Miller. Use me as you see fit."
Brian nodded before he turned to Bo Zhang and asked, "How about you, Bo Zhang? What is it you truly desire?"
The older bandit grumbled before he answered, "If you ever mistreat my men, I will come for your head. However, if you truly can change their lives for the better, then please let me accompany you on that path."
Brian's faint smile returned. "Very well. Together, we will build a land where everyone can thrive."