Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhu Yuanzhang and Zhu Biao reminisce about the past in Kunning Palace, where Zhu Yuanzhang's late wife, daughter-in-law, and grandson are enshrined.
• Zhu Biao recalls his son Zhu Xiongying's mischievous childhood and his parents' doting love for him.
• Zhu Ying leads a Ming cavalry unit to capture or kill a group of fleeing Jianzhou Tatar stragglers.

Character Developments

• Zhu Yuanzhang: Shows sentimentality and melancholy, missing his late family members and reminiscing about the past.
• Zhu Biao: Reflects on his family's past and feels nostalgic, also showing concern for his father's health.
• Zhu Xiongying (in flashback): Displayed as a mischievous and playful child, loved by his grandparents.
• Zhu Ying: Demonstrates bravery and determination in leading the Ming cavalry against the Tatars.

Significant Themes

• Nostalgia and the passage of time: Both Zhu Yuanzhang and Zhu Biao reflect on the past and the loss of loved ones, highlighting the impermanence of life and the inevitability of change.
• Family love and bonds: The affection between Zhu Yuanzhang, Empress Ma, and Zhu Xiongying emphasizes the importance of family ties and the love between grandparents and grandchildren.
• Loyalty and resistance: The Tatars' refusal to surrender and their willingness to fight to the death showcase their loyalty to their tribe and their resistance against the Ming Dynasty's expansion.

Character Interactions

• Zhu Yuanzhang and Zhu Biao: Share a moment of reminiscence and emotional connection, with Zhu Biao showing concern for his father's well-being.
• Zhu Yuanzhang and Zhu Xiongying (in flashback): Display a loving and doting relationship, with Zhu Yuanzhang showing immense affection for his grandson.
• Zhu Ying and the Jianzhou Tatars: Engage in a tense standoff, with Zhu Ying ordering the Ming cavalry to capture or kill the Tatars, who refuse to surrender and fight to the death.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhu Ying's cavalry, the First Thousand-Household Battalion, encounters and massacres a group of retreating Tartar soldiers and civilians.
• Zhu Ying orders the beheading of all able-bodied Tartars taller than a cart wheel, following a policy of wiping out their strength and cutting off their provisions.
• The Daning Border Army, including Zhu Ying's battalion, continues north, expecting a major battle with the main Tatar forces and the Northern Yuan.

Character Developments

• Zhu Ying demonstrates his military prowess and strategic thinking, showing no mercy to the enemy. He also reveals his determination to prevent future Tatar invasions and enslavement of the Han Chinese.
• Zhang Wu, the vice commander, and Fan Qing, the standard-bearer, follow Zhu Ying's orders without question, showing loyalty and obedience.

Significant Themes

• Cruelty of War: The chapter highlights the brutal nature of war, with both sides showing no mercy to the other.
• Determination vs. Pragmatism: Zhu Ying's determination to prevent future Tatar invasions contrasts with his pragmatic approach to dealing with the current situation, such as wiping out the Tartars' strength and cutting off their provisions.
• Power Dynamics: The relationship between the Ming Dynasty, the Tartars, and the Northern Yuan is one of power struggle, with each side seeking to gain the upper hand.

Character Interactions

• Zhu Ying and Zhang Wu: Zhu Ying consults Zhang Wu on how the Tartars treat Ming Dynasty commoners, showing he values his vice commander's experience and knowledge.
• Zhu Ying and the Tartars: Zhu Ying shows no mercy to the Tartars, following a policy of wiping out their strength and cutting off their provisions, reflecting his determination to prevent future invasions.
• Aha Chu and his generals: Aha Chu, the Tatar chief, is swayed by Naha Chu's promises of fertile land in Liaodong, leading to his decision to follow the Yuan Court's decree against the Ming Dynasty.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Ming Dynasty's army, led by Bu Wan, has been pursuing the Jianzhou Tatars northward.
• They discover a large Tatar force thirty li away, but the Tatars refuse to engage, suggesting they're waiting for reinforcements from the Northern Yuan.
• Zhu Ying proposes a strategy to abandon the pursuit of the Tatars, leave a small force to keep them tied down, and instead attack Liaodong, under Naha Chu's control.

Character Developments

• Bu Wan: Shows wisdom in seeking military advice and not overstepping his civil authority.
• Chen Heng: Demonstrates strategic thinking and supports Zhu Ying's plan.
• Liu Zhen: Agrees with Chen Heng and Zhu Ying's plan.
• Zhu Ying: Proves his strategic acumen and bravery by volunteering for the dangerous task of holding back the Tatars.

Significant Themes

• Strategic warfare: The generals discuss the best course of action, weighing the risks and benefits of different strategies.
• Courage and sacrifice: Zhu Ying volunteers for a perilous task, showing bravery and commitment to the cause.

Character Interactions

• Bu Wan seeks advice from his generals, showing deference to their military expertise.
• Chen Heng and Liu Zhen support Zhu Ying's plan, demonstrating unity among the generals.
• Zhu Ying volunteers for the dangerous task, showing his willingness to take on responsibility and make sacrifices for the greater good.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhu Ying accepts a dangerous assignment to command five thousand troops and hold back the Jianzhou Tatars, drawing in the Northern Yuan.
• Bu Wan promotes Zhu Ying to Acting Garrison Commander and grants him absolute command over the five thousand cavalry.
• An urgent military report arrives, revealing that the Northern Yuan is mobilizing troops to attack Daning Prefecture.
• Bu Wan decides to return to Daning and hold it, leaving the surprise attack on Liaodong to Chen Heng and Liu Zhen.
• Zhu Ying requests more arrows for his troops and declines Chen Heng's offer to send a message to his family.

Character Developments

• Zhu Ying demonstrates courage, military talent, and strategic thinking, earning Bu Wan's respect and a promotion.
• Chen Heng shows concern for Zhu Ying's safety and offers help, revealing his caring nature.
• Bu Wan proves to be a wise commander, prioritizing the bigger picture and cultivating military talent.

Significant Themes

• Courage and bravery in the face of danger.
• Strategic thinking and military talent.
• The importance of cultivating and supporting capable individuals.

Character Interactions

• Zhu Ying and Chen Heng's interaction shows a mix of camaraderie, concern, and mutual respect.
• Bu Wan's interaction with Zhu Ying highlights his recognition of Zhu Ying's abilities and his willingness to support him.
• The generals in the command tent show regret at not accepting the assignment themselves, revealing their ambition and desire for promotion.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhu Ying learns he's been promoted to Thousand Household Commander and will lead troops to the northern borderlands.
• Zhu Di, the Prince of Yan, receives orders to mobilize his troops to join the campaign against Yuan.
• Zhu Di meets with Yao Guangxiao, the Black-Clad Demonic Monk, who advises him on his future.

Character Developments

• Zhu Ying shows maturity and determination, accepting his new role and preparing for the campaign.
• Zhu Di grapples with his ambition, influenced by Yao Guangxiao's words.
• Yao Guangxiao remains enigmatic and manipulative, furthering his plans for Zhu Di's future.

Significant Themes

• Ambition and its consequences (Zhu Di, Yao Guangxiao)
• Responsibility and growth (Zhu Ying)
• Manipulation and power dynamics (Yao Guangxiao)

Character Interactions

• Zhu Ying and Chen Heng share a moment of camaraderie and understanding before Zhu Ying leaves for the campaign.
• Zhu Di and Zhang Yu discuss strategies and the potential of Zhu Ying.
• Zhu Di and Yao Guangxiao meet secretly, with Yao Guangxiao furthering his plans for Zhu Di's future.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Ming army, led by Zhu Ying, infiltrates the Blue Banner Tatar tribe under the cover of night.
• They capture and interrogate two Tatar scouts, learning that the tribe has over 30,000 soldiers and is expecting reinforcements from Great Yuan.
• Zhu Ying decides to take the initiative and attack the Tatar tribe instead of passively waiting for an attack.

Character Developments

• Zhu Ying demonstrates decisive leadership and ruthlessness, earning respect from his commanders.
• Li Tao, a battalion commander, expresses reluctance to engage in battle and is given the task of harassing the Tatars to draw their attention, with the option to withdraw afterward.
• Wei Quan, Luo Hua, Zhang Wu, and Zhuang Wei pledge their loyalty to Zhu Ying and choose to stay and fight.

Significant Themes

• Ruthless decisiveness in leadership.
• The importance of initiative in warfare.
• The consequences of disloyalty and reluctance to fight.

Character Interactions

• Zhu Ying interacts with his commanders, demonstrating his authority and making strategic decisions.
• Li Tao and Zhu Ying clash over their views on the battle strategy, with Li Tao ultimately given a task that allows him to withdraw if he chooses.
• The other commanders, Wei Quan, Luo Hua, Zhang Wu, and Zhuang Wei, pledge their loyalty to Zhu Ying and express their willingness to fight.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhu Ying leads 4,000 cavalry north to attack a Tatar tribe, aiming to draw their attention away from the main army's southern advance.
• Zhu Ying decides to raid the camp first, contrary to the initial plan, to create confusion and draw the Tatars' focus.
• The attack begins with a stealthy approach, followed by a sudden charge, aiming to slaughter their way through the camp and set fires.

Character Developments

• Zhu Ying demonstrates strategic thinking, bravery, and concern for his soldiers' lives, inspiring them to follow him.
• Li Tao shows cowardice and a lack of commitment to the mission, only willing to follow orders to the letter and avoid risk.

Significant Themes

• Patriotism: Zhu Ying's speech emphasizes defending the nation and people, highlighting the soldiers' duty to protect their homeland.
• Bravery vs. Cowardice: Zhu Ying's actions contrast with Li Tao's, illustrating the difference between a leader willing to take risks for the greater good and one who prioritizes self-preservation.

Character Interactions

• Zhu Ying inspires and leads his soldiers, fostering a sense of unity and determination among them.
• Zhu Ying's decision to raid the camp first surprises his subordinates but ultimately gains their understanding and support.
• Li Tao's lack of initiative and cautious approach cause friction with his subordinates, who question his orders but ultimately comply.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhu Ying leads a surprise night attack on the Jianzhou Tatars' Northern Tribe, catching them off guard.
• Ming Dynasty soldiers, boosted by Zhu Ying's Authority Seal, fight with increased strength, morale, and endurance.
• The Tatars are caught in disarray, with many soldiers and civilians killed.
• Agunu, the Blue Banner Lord, is informed of the attacks on both the Northern and Southern Tribes, but struggles to understand the Ming Army's strategy.

Character Developments

• Zhu Ying demonstrates his formidable combat skills and leadership, inspiring his troops and boosting their attributes.
• Agunu shows strategic thinking but is caught off guard by the Ming Army's tactics.

Significant Themes

• The cruelty and chaos of war, where civilians are often caught in the crossfire.
• The importance of strategy and adaptability in warfare.
• The boost in morale and combat effectiveness that a charismatic leader can provide to their troops.

Character Interactions

• Zhu Ying leads his troops, encouraging them and fighting alongside them.
• Agunu receives reports from his messengers, showing his strategic thinking but also his confusion at the Ming Army's tactics.
• There is no direct interaction between Zhu Ying and Agunu in this chapter.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhu Ying leads a surprise night raid on the Tatars' Northern Tribe, slaughtering and burning the camp.
• Agunu realizes the Ming Army's true target was the Northern Tribe and rushes to reinforce it.
• The Ming Army retreats, and Agunu sends troops to pursue them.

Character Developments

• Zhu Ying demonstrates his ruthlessness and strategic prowess in leading the raid.
• Agunu shows his military acumen in recognizing the Ming Army's deception but also his impulsiveness in pursuing them.

Significant Themes

• The brutal nature of war and its impact on civilians.
• The importance of strategic deception and adaptability in warfare.
• The consequences of underestimating one's enemy.

Character Interactions

• Zhu Ying and his troops display camaraderie and determination in their raid.
• Agunu and his generals show their loyalty and willingness to follow his orders, even in the face of defeat.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhu Ying's army successfully raids and annihilates the Northern Tatar tribe.
• Zhu Ying reports the victory and Li Tao's treachery to the Regional Commander using carrier pigeons.
• Zhu Ying opens two treasure chests, obtaining the Yellow Tier Mid-grade Tiger Roar Skill and ten large packets of Diarrhea Powder.
• The Tatars are expected to retaliate in large numbers, setting the stage for a more intense battle.

Character Developments

• Zhu Ying's attributes soar after the battle, entering the seven-hundred-point tier for all attributes and gaining additional lifespan. He also obtains a new skill and plans to use the Diarrhea Powder strategically.
• The soldiers gain respect and admiration for Zhu Ying's leadership and courage in battle.

Significant Themes

• The power of surprise attacks and strategic planning.
• The importance of leadership and courage in battle.
• The potential for personal growth and strength enhancement through battle and rewards.

Character Interactions

• Zhu Ying interacts with his Thousand-Man Commanders, giving orders and discussing strategies.
• Zhu Ying communicates with the Regional Commander through carrier pigeons, reporting the victory and Li Tao's treachery.
• Bu Wan, the Prefect of Daning Prefecture, greets an old general, hinting at potential political intrigue or reinforcements.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Duke of Song, Feng Sheng, arrives in Daning Prefecture.
• Bu Wan, the prefect, briefs Feng Sheng on the current situation: the Yuan Court's attack on Huizhou City, the Jianzhou Tatars' disruption, and the strategic split of Great Ming's forces.
• A military report arrives, revealing Zhu Ying's rash plan to attack a Tatar tribe with a small force.
• A carrier pigeon message from Zhu Ying is received, indicating he's unharmed.

Character Developments

• Feng Sheng: Shows strategic acumen, disappointment in Zhu Ying's rashness, and concern for Great Ming's soldiers.
• Bu Wan: Demonstrates loyalty, competence, and concern for Zhu Ying's safety.
• Zhu Ying: Initially praised for his courage and strength, but criticized for his lack of strategic thinking and rashness.

Significant Themes

• Military Strategy: The importance of strategic planning, patience, and adaptability in warfare.
• Courage vs. Wisdom: Zhu Ying's courage is praised, but his lack of strategic wisdom is criticized.
• Loyalty and Concern: Both Feng Sheng and Bu Wan show concern for Zhu Ying's safety and Great Ming's soldiers.

Character Interactions

• Feng Sheng and Bu Wan: They work together, sharing information and making strategic decisions.
• Feng Sheng and Zhu Ying (absent): Feng Sheng expresses disappointment in Zhu Ying's rashness but still hopes to save him.
• Bu Wan and Zhu Ying (absent): Bu Wan is concerned for Zhu Ying's safety and wants to warn him to withdraw.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhu Ying's army successfully raids the Tatar Northern Tribe, killing over 10,000 enemies with no casualties.
• Feng Sheng arrives in Daning and reads Zhu Ying's victory report, expressing astonishment and admiration.
• It's revealed that the earlier report about the Thousand-Household Office retreating to Ansha County was false and aimed to smear Zhu Ying's name.

Character Developments

• Zhu Ying demonstrates exceptional military prowess and strategic thinking, earning praise from Feng Sheng.
• Bu Wan initially underestimates Zhu Ying but later shares in his glory and credit.
• Li Tao's cowardice and disobedience are further exposed.

Significant Themes

• Military strategy and tactics.
• The importance of trust and loyalty in military command.
• The consequences of underestimating one's opponents.

Character Interactions

• Feng Sheng and Bu Wan discuss Zhu Ying's achievements and the false report.
• The generals in the hall express their amazement at Zhu Ying's victory.
• Zhao Yong explains Zhu Ying's strategy to Feng Sheng.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhu Ying's army returns from the successful raid on the Tatar camp.
• The Ming army learns that the Tatars are pursuing them, with a force of around 5,000 cavalry.
• Zhu Ying decides to ambush the pursuing Tatars.
• The Ming army forms an attacking formation, and Zhu Ying leads them in a counterattack against the Tatars.

Character Developments

• Zhu Ying demonstrates his strategic thinking, courage, and charisma, rallying his troops and leading them into battle.
• The soldiers show unwavering loyalty and determination to follow Zhu Ying.

Significant Themes

• Loyalty and camaraderie among soldiers.
• The importance of strategic planning and adaptability in warfare.
• The determination to defend one's homeland against invaders.

Character Interactions

• Zhu Ying interacts with his Commanders of a Thousand, showing confidence and trust in their abilities.
• The soldiers express their willingness to follow Zhu Ying into battle, demonstrating their loyalty and unity.
• Zhu Ying faces off against the Tatar commander, displaying his formidable archery skills.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhu Ying, with his powerful bow, decimates the Tatar cavalry's first charge.
• The Ming Army and Tatar cavalry clash, exchanging arrows and melee attacks.
• Zhu Ying charges into the Tatar ranks, killing their commander and capturing his banner, turning the tide of battle.
• The Ming Army pursues the retreating Tatars, slaughtering them and collecting attributes.

Character Developments

• Zhu Ying demonstrates his formidable archery and melee combat skills, inspiring his troops.
• Zhang Wu, Zhu Ying's subordinate, shows loyalty and bravery in battle.

Significant Themes

• The power of morale and initiative in battle.
• The importance of a strong leader in inspiring troops.
• The Ming Army's prowess and the Tatars' weakness.

Character Interactions

• Zhu Ying and Zhang Wu: Zhu Ying's leadership inspires Zhang Wu and the Ming Army to fight fiercely.
• Zhu Ying and the Tatar General: Zhu Ying's skill and ferocity overwhelm the Tatar commander, leading to his death and the collapse of the Tatar army's morale.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhu Ying leads a charge against the Tatars, killing over two hundred enemies single-handedly.
• His attributes surpass 900 points, granting him two ordinary treasure chests.
• After the battle, Zhu Ying ensures the bodies of his fallen soldiers are retrieved and not left behind in enemy territory.
• The Ming Army gains thousands of warhorses and arrows from the Tatars.
• Zhu Ying decides to continue northward, aiming to harass and weaken the Tatar cavalry.

Character Developments

• Zhu Ying's combat prowess and leadership are further established, earning him the respect and loyalty of his soldiers.
• Zhu Ying's determination to bring his fallen comrades home highlights his growing sense of responsibility and care for his men.

Significant Themes

• Loyalty and Brotherhood: Zhu Ying's commitment to his soldiers, and their reciprocation, is a central theme.
• Responsibility: Zhu Ying feels a growing sense of responsibility for his men and their mission.
• Growth and Development: Zhu Ying's attributes and skills continue to improve, reflecting his personal growth.

Character Interactions

• Zhu Ying interacts with his Thousand-Household Officers and soldiers, giving orders and showing concern for their well-being.
• The soldiers show unwavering loyalty and faith in Zhu Ying, demonstrating their bond as comrades-in-arms.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Tatar Commander of Ten Thousand vows revenge after receiving a threatening letter from the Ming Army.
• Li Tao is demoted for fleeing the battlefield and disobeying orders, while Zhu Ying is praised for his victory.
• Zhu Ying and his men celebrate their victory over the Tatars, with minimal casualties.

Character Developments

• Li Tao's cowardice and selfishness are exposed, leading to his demotion.
• Zhu Ying's bravery and strategic prowess are recognized, earning him the respect of his men.

Significant Themes

• Bravery vs. Cowardice: Zhu Ying's fearlessness in battle contrasts with Li Tao's fear of death.
• Loyalty and Respect: Zhu Ying's actions earn him the loyalty and respect of his men.
• Consequences of Actions: Li Tao's actions lead to his demotion, while Zhu Ying's actions bring him praise.

Character Interactions

• Li Tao and Zhu Ying: Li Tao's hatred for Zhu Ying grows as he blames Zhu Ying for his demotion.
• Zhu Ying and his men: Zhu Ying's commanders express their admiration and respect for Zhu Ying after their victory.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhu Ying's army wins a significant battle against the Tatars, killing four thousand enemies and capturing warhorses.
• Zhu Ying decides to rest his troops before planning their next move, refusing to report their victory immediately.
• Zhu Ying plans to strike at the Tatar tribal court once they've dealt with the pursuing Tatar cavalry.
• Zhu Ying opens three treasure chests, obtaining a Yellow Tier Mid-grade Charged Saber Slash skill, a Yellow Tier Low-grade Protective Inner Armor, and ten bottles of Yellow Tier Low-grade Premium Hemostatic Powder.
• Zhu Ying uses the hemostatic powder to save wounded soldiers and extracts the Charged Saber Slash skill and Protective Inner Armor.

Character Developments

• Zhu Ying shows concern for his soldiers' well-being, prioritizing their rest despite their recent victory.
• Zhu Ying demonstrates strategic thinking, planning their next move to disrupt the Tatars and support the Ming Dynasty's shift to offense.
• Zhu Ying shows responsibility and care for his soldiers' lives, using the hemostatic powder to save those in critical condition.

Significant Themes

• The importance of rest and recovery for soldiers in maintaining their fighting strength.
• Zhu Ying's strategic and responsible leadership.
• The value of graded items and skills obtained from treasure chests.

Character Interactions

• Zhu Ying interacts with his Thousand Commanders, showing understanding and respect for their concerns and opinions.
• Zhu Ying communicates with Liu Lei, entrusting him with the hemostatic powder to save wounded soldiers.
• Zhu Ying interacts with the panel, opening treasure chests and extracting items and skills.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhu Ying reflects on his gains after killing enemies, including increased attributes and lifespan.
• The Shen Family discusses their plans to eliminate Zhu Ying and secure their alliance with the Lü Family.
• Zhu Ying sets an ambush for the Tatar cavalry, aiming to cripple their forces.

Character Developments

• Zhu Ying grows more powerful and confident in his abilities.
• Shen Wansan and Shen Rong become more determined to eliminate Zhu Ying and secure their family's future.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and the influence of wealth and alliances.
• The ruthlessness of the Shen Family in pursuing their goals.
• Zhu Ying's strategic thinking and ability to turn the tables on his enemies.

Character Interactions

• Zhu Ying interacts with his soldiers, showing concern for their well-being.
• Shen Wansan and Shen Rong discuss their plans, revealing their manipulative and calculating nature.
• Zhu Ying's actions set the stage for a confrontation with the Tatar cavalry, showcasing his strategic prowess.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhu Ying leads the Ming Army in a strategic retreat, luring the Tatar cavalry into an ambush.
• The Ming Army, hidden in a valley, attacks the pursuing Tatars with a volley of arrows, followed by a charge led by Zhu Ying.
• The Tatars, caught off guard and without their commander, are routed and massacred.
• Zhu Ying orders no survivors, and the remaining Tatars are swiftly eliminated.

Character Developments

• Zhu Ying: Demonstrates strategic prowess in luring the Tatars into an ambush and leading the charge, further cementing his status as a formidable commander.
• Ming Dynasty Soldiers: Show improved morale, discipline, and fighting spirit, reflecting their growth under Zhu Ying's leadership.

Significant Themes

• Strategic warfare: Zhu Ying's use of deception, terrain, and timing to gain a decisive advantage over the Tatars.
• Unity and resolve: The Ming Army's unwavering loyalty and determination to follow Zhu Ying's orders, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

Character Interactions

• Zhu Ying and his soldiers: Zhu Ying's leadership inspires his soldiers to fight bravely and follow his orders without question.
• Zhu Ying and the Tatar commander: Zhu Ying's arrow kills the Tatar commander, causing the Tatar army to lose cohesion and morale.
• Ming Army and Tatar remnants: The Ming Army shows no mercy, swiftly executing the remaining Tatars on Zhu Ying's orders.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhu Ying's army annihilates the Tatar cavalry, securing the Northern Frontier for Ming cavalry.
• Zhu Ying's attributes surpass 1,000 points, granting him Internal Breath and a Tier 1 treasure chest.
• Zhu Ying collects attributes from the Tatar corpses, including the new attribute Internal Breath.

Character Developments

• Zhu Ying gains Internal Breath, a step towards becoming a martial artist.
• Liu Lei expresses gratitude for following Zhu Ying, anticipating future accomplishments.

Significant Themes

• The importance of strategic victories and their impact on the overall war effort.
• The gradual transformation of Zhu Ying's attributes and the introduction of Internal Breath.

Character Interactions

• Zhu Ying and his subordinates, including Liu Lei, work together to secure the battlefield and collect attributes.
• Zhu Ying's soldiers express their loyalty and admiration for him.