The five thousand soldiers of Sweet Spring Camp were at full strength, yet it lacked enough powerful fighters, greatly diminishing the army's combat strength.
After some thought, Li Xuancang reached a decision.
"Post notices and recruit soldiers across the entire commandery."
Once Li Xuancang gave the order, the government offices swiftly posted notices throughout the commandery.
"Since the beginning of autumn, demons and fiends have appeared frequently in this commandery, while evil spirits run rampant. The people live in fear, and the authorities are deeply concerned."
"Furthermore, the grassland people are watching like tigers stalking their prey, restless and eager to make a move, their covetous intentions plain for all to see."
"Though the soldiers of Sweet Spring Camp patrol day and night, there is a shortage of experts in the army, making it difficult to wipe them out completely."
"By order of the Governor, the Martial Champion Camp is hereby established to widely recruit heroes from across the land. Any who possess martial skill and exceptional courage may apply, regardless of background or past. Talent alone shall be considered."
"Those aged eighteen or above but under fifty, strong and healthy, without serious or hidden ailments, may proceed to the Drill Ground for examination."
"The examination consists of three subjects: archery and horsemanship, weapons, and martial demonstrations."
"Those excelling in all three subjects shall be ranked upper grade; those excelling in two, middle grade; those excelling in one, lower grade."
"Different ranks shall receive different appointments."
"Upper grade: appointed Centurion, commanding one hundred soldiers; monthly salary of thirty taels of silver; granted one martial arts manual and one hundred taels of settlement silver."
"Middle grade: appointed Squad Leader, commanding ten soldiers; monthly salary of twelve taels of silver; granted three medicinal pills and thirty taels of settlement silver."
"Lower grade: