That afternoon, Yu Shixian duly took Fang Qianyuan to a small city outside the Headquarters, built specifically for Warriors, to inspect them.
The Warriors stationed there had learned in advance that the Sect Master and Fang Qianyuan would be coming, and had assembled in formation on a drill ground to welcome them.
When Fang Qianyuan entered the drill ground, he saw more than twenty General-Rank Warriors leading three thousand Soldier-Rank Warriors, waiting to receive them.
"Greetings, Sect Master! Greetings, Grand Commander!"
The Warriors spoke in perfect unison.
"Qianyuan, you're the Grand Commander. Say a few words." Smiling, Yu Shixian yielded the place of honor and let Fang Qianyuan step forward.
Fang Qianyuan accepted without hesitation and stepped out. "Fellow comrades and fellow cultivators, I am Fang Qianyuan. Starting at the end of this month, I will assume the post of Grand Commander in charge of the Warrior Administration's forces. This is a major step in the sect's reform of the Warriors, enrolling you in the military registers and granting you the same treatment as Inner Disciples."
"From now on, regardless of our origins, circumstances, or cultivation methods, we will all be treated equally. The mediocre will step down, and the capable will rise. Those of you with talent may ascend into the blue skies and unfold your grand ambitions. As the saying goes, a hero is not judged by his origins. I hope you will all strive hard, unite in sincerity, and serve the sect."
He offered a string of conventional words of encouragement and expectation, yet they were not merely empty platitudes.
Yu Shixian and the others had already laid ample groundwork. Every reform and new appointment was intended to genuinely improve the Warriors' standing and change their fate.
Leaving the Warrior Hall and joining the Warrior Administration gave