Ch. 961An Alternative Military Pay System
Key Plot Points and Events
- Recruitment posters for the Shence Guard are issued, causing a stir among the civilians.
- The recruitment requirements include age, health, height, eyesight, no criminal record, and having at least one child, with preference given to archers and those fluent in Chinese.
- The quota for Qianzhou County is 40 people out of 200 for Weishan Commandery.
- The civilians are shocked by the high vision requirement (seeing a person from 300 meters) and the low recruitment quota.
- The recruitment process involves vision tests, physical fitness assessments, background checks, and archery competitions to select the final recruits.
Character Developments
- Civilians show varying reactions to the recruitment poster, from excitement to disbelief and fear.
- A young man (not named) understands the vision requirement in the context of archery and long-range attacks against the Cannibal Tribe's monsters.
- The selected soldiers are overjoyed and bewildered upon receiving their first month's military pay, understanding the unique salary system of soldiers.
Significant Themes
- Social Mobility: Joining the army is seen as the primary path for upward mobility for ordinary civilians who lack education and skills.
- War and Sacrifice: The unconventional pay system for soldiers emphasizes the risks and potential sacrifices they may face.
- Selection and Meritocracy: The rigorous recruitment process ensures only the most qualified and suitable candidates are chosen for the Shence Guard.
Character Interactions
- Civilians gather around the recruitment poster, discussing and debating its requirements and implications.
- The young man explains the vision requirement to the others, influencing their understanding and perception of the recruitment process.
- The selected soldiers interact with their families and neighbors, expressing their joy and confusion about receiving their first month's military pay.