There was no shame in asking about the terms before surrendering.
Ma Zhi was equally straightforward. He understood the thinking of the middle and lower ranks.
"I can give you an answer on the terms. Everyone will receive severance pay. Anyone who wishes to stay on will be retained in full. The public security system will still need people to help out.
"Of course, let me make one thing clear first. If you want to draw a salary for doing nothing, fine—but first find yourself a patron in the Dark Empire. Otherwise, don't blame me for being harsh."
Ma Zhi permitted unwritten rules, but only if one had the backing for them. Otherwise, they were just asking to be beaten.
With Ma Zhi laying bare everyone's unwritten rules, they actually felt relieved. Now this was one of their own.
"Rest assured, Minister. None of the brothers who stay will loaf around. Otherwise, we'll beat him to death ourselves before you have to lift a hand."
"Minister Ma, from now on, wherever you tell us to fight, that's where we'll fight!"
"We'll disarm now and wait for you to take over the defense system."
These middle- and lower-ranking managers of Pegasus Group bypassed the senior leadership and surrendered directly to Ma Zhi.
Every one of them cast aside all principles and pledged themselves without conditions.
Those brought together by self-interest could never be expected to have much loyalty to begin with.
Faith? Loyalty? Don't be ridiculous. How much were they being paid? Why should they risk their lives?
Ma Zhi did not demand much loyalty from them. Professionalism was enough.
The early public security system did not need loyalty or faith cultivated into it, either.
Once the framework was in place, the standards could be gradually raised. Those who did not