Early the next morning, Lan Tian postponed the scheduled court session and personally hurried to the docks to see them off.
Tempered by war, the five hundred young men of the Youth Camp were no longer merely students of the martial hall. Not only were they brave and fearless in battle, every one of them possessed theoretical knowledge as well; once the army expanded, they could be put directly to use as officers.
"Your soldiers all look in excellent spirits. Tiger Guards Martial Hall has nothing more to teach you. From this day on, you are no longer students of the martial hall. Once you reach Xiangyang, simply obey General Guan's command." Lan Tian adjusted Lan Ji's robes and cap, his eyes filled with fatherly affection.
Lan Ji flashed his big white teeth and teased Lan Tian. "Uncle Gao said this expedition was a graduation assessment. Should I go back and let him test me again?"
"As long as I approve, that is enough. Though Boping is the General of Supervision at the martial hall, don't forget that I am its Deputy Academy Director, you little brat." Standing on tiptoe, Lan Tian lightly patted Lan Ji's helmet, thinking, Why does this child keep shooting up taller and taller? Maybe I should introduce basketball? The two little brats at home should both be able to dunk.
"Hehe, Father, do you have any message for Aunt and Uncle?" Lan Ji asked with a smile.
"Yang Province has now been absorbed into the Great Han. Before long, I will mass troops at the mouth of the Ruxu River, which should relieve Jing Province's crisis. Tell him to hurry and rest his forces and drill his troops. Next time, Jing Province and Huainan will rise at the same time. I fear Cao Pi will