The mobilization of two fully armed battalions caused quite a stir. Some people who had intended to offer incense at Xiangshan Zen Monastery, or were simply passing through, were frightened into turning back or taking a detour.
The officers leading them had already ordered the roads ahead and behind sealed off, forbidding any more pilgrims from approaching Xiangshan Zen Monastery.
In many parts of Great Yong, especially its prosperous regions, the troops had long since rotted away from within. Only in recent years had things begun to improve.
The imperial guards had been the first to undergo reform-the same force that had played the leading role in the Wu Prefecture salt case-but most of the army still left much to be desired.
Although the troops of Su Prefecture were in poor shape, they fell short of the best but stood above the worst, and had always been considerably better than those in certain wealthy regions.
With the court's vigorous reforms over recent years, the soldiers at least had enough food and warm clothing. They had gradually received some of the equipment they were due, and a number of officers who skimmed their pay had been removed.
That alone had greatly improved the soldiers' spirits. Compared with ten years ago, the difference was heaven and earth.
Thus, the troops arriving this time presented a disciplined appearance.
As they drew closer to Mount Xiang, the commotion inevitably reached the monastery. Hoofbeats, marching feet, and clattering armor mingled into a great swell of noise charged with menace.
The monk at the monastery entrance was the first to panic. Still clutching his broom, he rushed inside to find the abbot.
Ding Feixiong and the monk Zhaoli were still outside the abbot's meditation chamber, with Yi Shuyuan's parting words lingering in their ears.
Ding Feixiong