Lan Yuan gave an awkward smile after hearing this. Having been influenced by Lan Tian for years, he knew his father had never recklessly expanded the military within his territory, because Lan Tian deeply understood that war was fought with economics.
If soldier numbers remained high for long periods, the strain on a region's funds and grain would be enormous. Turning laborers into soldiers would also affect production. One way or another, the economic ledger simply would not balance.
Over the years, Lan Tian had strictly controlled the size of his army. The drawback was that in his several clashes with Sun Quan, he had always been at a disadvantage in troop numbers. The benefit was that production had not been abandoned because of war, and many generals, having fought against adversity, had honed their military abilities to a higher level.
"Right, I'm used to having General Ding at my side. I'll be taking him with me tomorrow as well." Lan Yuan looked back and gestured toward Ding Feng.
Gan Ning turned to glance at Ding Feng and answered with a smile, "Ding Chengyuan fights boldly and decisively, very much to my liking. He was Boyang's general to begin with, so there is nothing improper about you taking him. We can fight together again when the opportunity arises."
"Thank you for your esteem, General." Ding Feng clasped his fists and thanked Gan Ning.
Lan Yuan nodded. "Chengyuan has been in Luling for many years, after all. With his assistance, taking Yixing will go much more smoothly. I'll leave Sun Lin and Zhang Cheng with you, Uncle Gan. They should be of use in your campaign to take Chaisang."
Gan Ning smiled faintly. "What a coincidence. The gentleman's instructions specifically mentioned this Zhang Cheng. Bring him in at once for me