Zhao Yun responded with deep gratitude, "Yes, I will not let down your expectations."
Then, Yun Yi lightly leaped down from the spot where he had been standing, making way for Zhao An to take the front position.
Zhao An was also prepared to announce the labor-for-food plan and explained to the crowd, "Now that everyone has witnessed the presence of the Great Sage, there is no need for me to hide anything further. The Great Immortal is indeed a true deity from the upper realm. His purpose in descending to this world is to save those who are suffering. However, not everyone can receive this aid. Only those who harbor kindness and accumulate merit can receive the blessings of the divine; those who commit crimes and cause chaos will not only be denied help but will also face divine retribution."
Zhao An's words resonated powerfully. Through this declaration, he both promoted a belief system and reinforced the psychological impact of the earlier intimidation.
Seizing the moment while the pressure still lingered, Zhao An publicly unveiled his labor exchange plan to all those who had fled here seeking refuge. For all the refugees seeking shelter in Zhao Family Village, they could receive a free bowl of porridge upon their arrival to temporarily alleviate their hunger. However, if they wished to continue receiving food supplies, they would have to participate in collective work.
The able-bodied men would primarily engage in digging ditches or waterworks. Through hard work each day, they could earn enough food for their daily needs. Although women were generally physically weaker, they could still undertake lighter tasks such as weaving straw sandals or engaging in spinning and embroidery. Their efforts would also earn them corresponding food supplies.
As for minors, children under the age of sixteen would automatically receive sufficient food support each day. Once they surpassed this age limit, they would join the adults in labor.
No one raised any objections to the initiative of exchanging labor for food and lodging; everyone expressed their agreement. This was primarily due to the formidable deterrent power that Yun Yi had previously demonstrated, instilling a sense of awe in everyone, making it impossible for anyone to voice dissent. Furthermore, for those who were hungry and impoverished, having a stable source of food was already a rare blessing, so no one dared to make excessive demands.
Zhao An continued to deliver his speech at the front, while Gao Shun was receiving an unexpected inquiry from Yun Yi, who asked for his opinion on whether he viewed him as a deity or a trickster. This sudden question made Gao Shun tense up instantly, nearly causing him to collapse. He struggled to steady his emotions and attempted to calm his racing heart: Great Immortal, forgive my ignorance and disrespect; I humbly request death as punishment for my offense.
Without a moment's hesitation, Gao Shun swiftly drew the sword from his waist, its sharp tip gliding across his neck. In an instant, blood gushed forth like a fountain, splattering onto the ground. Just as Zhao Yun was still reveling in his recent appointment as the chief of security, he was startled by the scene unfolding before him. Yun Yi was equally taken aback.
It was confirmed; this was not merely a case of sharing the same name. Who else could possess such unwavering resolve if not Gao Shun, who would charge into battle and fight to the death? According to historical records, when Gao Shun was captured and faced Cao Cao, he did not utter a word in defense but willingly accepted execution. Under Lu Bu's command, aside from him, only Chen Gong had done the same.
Considering Gao Shun's talents, if he had chosen to surrender, Cao Cao would have undoubtedly been more than willing to keep him. Yet Gao Shun did not take that path. He believed that while physical death was not to be feared, losing one's integrity in death was utterly unacceptable!
Seeing the situation, Yun Yi shook his head and stepped forward to support the already exhausted Gao Shun. He then took out a bottle of milk and directly poured it into Gao Shun's mouth. Fortunately, no matter how dire the circumstances, as long as there were signs of life, even if it was just a faint breath, the milk could work wonders.
As the milk flowed down, the sword wound on Gao Shun's neck began to heal rapidly. Before long, the wound had scabbed over and healed completely, leaving not even a trace of a scar. However, while the milk could eliminate abnormal physical conditions, it could not replenish lost blood. Due to the significant blood loss earlier, Gao Shun's face appeared extremely pale.
With a hint of strength, he looked at Yun Yi and asked, "Great Immortal, why did you save me?"
Yun Yi countered with a question, "Before you ask why I saved you, tell me if you have fulfilled my two conditions."
Gao Shun was taken aback, puzzled by the meaning behind the words. After a moment of contemplation, he began to realize.
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