Wang Chao stepped onto the platform, and Xiao Wei smiled at him. Wang Chao understood that, including the previous opposition and later support, most of it had likely been arranged by Xiao Wei beforehand. After all, if they truly believed Wang Chao was the second Commander Yu, how could they have the courage to oppose him? However, after such a commotion, all doubts were completely dispelled. The people's hearts were united, and everyone was looking forward to a better life in the Safe Zone.
With Yang Mengying's assistance, Wang Chao slightly bowed to the crowd. Everyone quieted down, their eyes fixed on him—men, women, and children alike. Wang Chao recalled the last time he had been under such scrutiny was during his public criticism in the capital. He never expected that just two months later, he would be regarded as one of the highest officials in the Safe Zone. It truly made him reflect on the unpredictability of life.
Looking around, Wang Chao spoke earnestly: "Commander Yu and his minions have been eliminated. From now on, you will no longer have to live that kind of life. We are free!"
As soon as Wang Chao finished speaking, applause erupted from the crowd. The joy and excitement in their hearts were palpable; one could tell how miserable their lives had been under oppression. Yet, Wang Chao was acutely aware that such enthusiasm could not be sustained for long; otherwise, it would surely lead to chaos. He quickly added, "However," and the crowd fell silent.
"Freedom does not mean disorder; in chaotic times, strict laws are necessary! Today, I will establish three rules with you." Wang Chao said seriously: "In ancient times, Emperor Gaozu of Han established three rules: death for murderers, punishment for injury and theft. Here, it is equally applicable; anyone who violates these rules will not be tolerated! Moreover, we do not support idlers here. As you all know, danger lurks at every moment in this world! I will not let you fall into certain peril, but we absolutely cannot allow anyone to take advantage of the situation."
"Next, elderly people, women, and children come forward to receive food; men stay behind!" Wang Chao commanded. "Begin!"
Upon hearing Wang Chao's words, the distribution of food resumed. Wu Wan'er watched Wang Chao speak from the platform and couldn't help but exclaim, "I can't believe he up there is the same person as he is down here." The crowd chuckled but remained silent. Yet each of them understood what kind of person made them willing to follow Wang Chao. If he were merely a carefree young man, their judgment would be terribly flawed. Wang Chao had never faltered at crucial moments; this was something ordinary people could not achieve.
The distribution continued until evening before finally stopping. Now only men—or those who considered themselves men—remained in the venue. Wang Chao noticed that a small boy had not left but stood among the crowd; his tiny stature was quite conspicuous in the line. With Yang Mengying's support, Wang Chao approached the boy.
"Little friend, why aren't you going home with your mother?" Wang Chao asked.
The boy stubbornly shook his head and replied, "I'm not a little friend; I'm a man! I want to do something here!"
Wang Chao felt a surge of emotion and wanted to reach out but remembered he couldn't move at all. He could only smile awkwardly and said, "Alright then, young man. I have a special mission for you—it's very important! Your task is to protect your mother's safety. Can you do that?"
"I can!" the boy replied decisively.
"Alright! Execute immediately, go!" Wang Chao said without hesitation.
"Yes!" The little boy replied and quickly ran back.
Wang Chao returned to the crowd and said, "Look, even a little boy has the awareness to defend the Safe Zone. As men, it is our duty to protect the Safe Zone, to safeguard our loved ones—our parents, our wives, our children—from harm. This is what a real man should do. I know there are many passionate and valiant men among you. You have just been suppressed by that surname Yu before. Now, I give you this opportunity to take up arms, to protect our home. However, if I find anyone using weapons to oppress others, no matter where you run, I will not let you go!"
As he spoke, Wang Chao exuded a chilling aura. The crowd felt a shiver run down their spines; no one doubted that his words were mere threats. They all nodded in agreement as Wang Chao reined in his killing intent. At that moment, Liu Jie and others had already brought the weapons from the villa. Upon seeing Wang Chao, they immediately saluted him. Wang Chao nodded and addressed the crowd: "I know some of you have military experience while others do not. But do not worry; Liu Jie will be your chief instructor from today!"
"Can you handle it?" Wang Chao asked.
"I guarantee to complete the mission!" Liu Jie shouted.
"Good." Wang Chao nodded in satisfaction, scanning the surroundings before casting a glance at Wu Lu. "You, step forward!" Old Gu's heart sank upon hearing this; that night, Wu Lu had said many insulting things about Wang Chao, which Wang Chao had clearly heard. Now calling Wu Lu out could mean he was about to settle scores!
Now that Wang Chao held the position of commander of the Safe Zone and had so many skilled individuals assisting him, along with Liu Jie and the other soldiers who were loyal to him, it would be as easy for Wang Chao to crush Wu Lu as it would be to squash an ant. But if Wang Chao truly intended to take action against Wu Lu, what should Old Gu do?
Wang Chao was unaware that his simple call had sent Old Gu into a spiral of anxious thoughts. Wu Lu stepped forward, and Wang Chao nodded in approval before saying, "Kid, not bad at all. I'll assign you as a team leader; is that alright?"
Wu Lu stood there blankly for a moment but upon hearing Wang Chao's words, he excitedly shouted, "Understood!"
Old Gu finally wiped the cold sweat from his brow; it seemed that Wang Chao was indeed a capable commander.
"Alright, Liu Jie," Wang Chao continued, "there are several hundred people present here. Training and appointments are now your responsibility. I want to see results within a month!"
"Guarantee the completion of the mission!" Liu Jie said.
Wang Chao had never been involved in the selection process for military training before; he needed to find some professionals to handle it. This was a matter of knowing how to utilize people effectively, as each had their own area of expertise. As for himself, he would focus on overseeing the overall situation in the Safe Zone.
"Distribute the weapons!" Wang Chao commanded.
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