Chapter 476

Liangshanpo, Hall of Gathered Righteousness.

Liangshanpo, Hall of Gathered Righteousness.

The narrow, oppressive atmosphere of the Wang Lun era was swept away in an instant, replaced by a vigorous, enterprising new spirit — the symbol of Northward Aspiration just taking shape.

The narrow, oppressive atmosphere of the Wang Lun era was swept away in an instant, replaced by a vigorous, enterprising new spirit — the symbol of Northward Aspiration just taking shape.

The brand‑new "Aspiration" banner before the hall fluttered loudly in the lake wind, as if proclaiming the dawn of a new era.

Translation: "The brand‑new 'Aspiration' banner before the hall snapped in the lake wind, as if proclaiming the dawn of a wholly new era."

Chao Gai sat firmly in the chief seat; though he still bore his usual heroic bearing, his brow now carried a weighty sense of responsibility and contemplation he had never had before.

Translation: "Chao Gai sat in the seat of honor; though he still bore his usual heroic bearing, his brow now carried a weight of responsibility and contemplation unseen before."

Below him, Wu Yong, Lin Chong, Ruan Xiaoer, Ruan Xiaowu, Ruan Xiaoxi, Du Qian, Song Wan, Bai Sheng and the other leaders took their seats in order.

Translation: "Below him, Wu Yong, Lin Chong, Ruan Xiaoer, Ruan Xiaowu, Ruan Xiaoqi, Du Qian, Song Wan, Bai Sheng and the other chieftains took their seats in order."

Shi Dun, as Chao Gai's personal guard commander, stood beside him, his gaze calm as he surveyed the assembly.

Translation: "Shi Dun, as Chao Gai's personal guard commander, stood at his side, his gaze calm as he swept over the assembly."

Brothers!

Translation: "\"Brothers! \""

Chao Gai's voice rang like a great bell, echoing through the hall.

Translation: "Chao Gai's voice rang like a great bell, echoing through the hall."

"From today onward, our Liangshan shall take 'Northward Aspiration' as our aspiration! This is no empty talk; it is the very foundation of our existence and the lamp that will guide our future steps."

Translation: "\"From today onward, our Liangshan shall take 'Northward Aspiration' as our aim! This is no idle talk; it is the very foundation of our existence and the lamp that will guide our future advance! \"

"How to put these two words 'Northward Aspiration' into practice still requires all of you brothers to pool your wisdom and strength, to devise a grand plan together!"

Translation: "\"How to put these two words 'Northward Aspiration' into practice still requires all of you to pool your wisdom and strength and devise a grand plan! \"

Wu Yong lightly shook his feather fan, spoke first, and had quickly slipped into the role of chief strategist.

Translation: "Wu Yong lightly shook his feather fan, spoke first, and had swiftly slipped into the role of military advisor."

"Your Majesty, having set a great ambition, we must now take corresponding actions."

Translation: "\"Your Majesty, having set a great ambition, we must take corresponding measures. \"

"The primary task is to secure our foundation and put the stronghold in order."

Translation: "\"The foremost task is to secure our foundations and put the stronghold in order. \"

"First, we must clarify duties so that each person fulfills his role. In the past, the stronghold fell into chaos because authority and responsibility were unclear. Now that we aim for great undertakings, we need to establish rules."

Translation: "\"First, we must clarify duties so that each does his job; previously the stronghold fell into chaos because authority and responsibility were unclear. Now that we aim at great undertakings, we need to establish rules. \"

"Second, we must train the troops and boost their fighting strength. Previously the bandits were lax, knowing only how to loot and not why they fought. Now we must inspire them with the 'Northward Aspiration' spirit, enforce strict military discipline, drill formations, and only then can we accumulate strength for future endeavors."

Translation: "\"Second, we must drill the troops to boost combat power. Formerly the bandits were lax, knowing only plunder and not why they fought. Now we must inspire them with the 'Northward Aspiration' spirit, enforce strict military discipline, and practice formations, so as to accumulate strength for future endeavors. \"

"Third, we must manage provisions and secure supply. Though the hundred‑thousand strings of the birthday tribute are vast, merely consuming the mountain's resources is not a lasting solution. We should follow the ancient model of garrison farming, seeking arable land near the marsh, developing fishing and hunting, or operating legitimate trade routes, so that our supplies endure like a trickling stream."

Translation: "\"Third, we must manage provisions to guarantee supply. Though the hundred‑thousand‑string birthday tribute is huge, merely consuming it would exhaust the mountain and is no long‑term plan. We should imitate ancient garrison farming, seeking arable land near the marsh, developing fishing and hunting, or operating legitimate trade routes, so as to ensure a steady flow. \"

Lin Chong, hearing this, clasped his fists and said:

Translation: "Lin Chong, hearing this, clasped his fists and said:"

"The strategist's words are absolutely correct! Though I am unworthy, I volunteer to take charge of training the troops and organizing the cavalry! I will make the brothers understand that our swords and spears are not for personal gain, but for the Northward Aspiration of our land, to defend China!"

Translation: "\"The advisor's words are absolutely correct! Though I lack talent, I am willing to take charge of drilling the troops and organizing the forces! I will make the brothers understand that the swords and spears in our hands are not for private gain, but for the mountains and rivers of Northward Aspiration, to defend our China! \"

He had once been a drill instructor of the 800,000‑strong Imperial Guard in Dongjing, possessed great talent, but had felt stifled and unappreciated under Wang Lun; now, having found a wise lord and heard this grand ambition, he is like a dragon entering the sea, brimming with vigor.

Translation: "He had once been a drill instructor of the 800,000‑strong imperial army in Dongjing, possessed of considerable skill, but had felt stifled and unappreciated under Wang Lun; now, having found a wise lord and heard this grand ambition, he is like a dragon entering the sea, brimming with energy."

Ruan Xiaoer also rose and said:

Translation: "Ruan Xiaoer also rose and said:"

"We Ruan brothers know the marsh well; let us handle the naval drills, boat building, and fishing livelihood! We will make these eight hundred li of water become Liangshan's bronze walls and iron bulwarks, as well as the source of our food and clothing!"

Translation: "\"We Ruan brothers know the marsh well; let us handle the naval drills, shipbuilding, and fishing‑and‑hunting livelihood! We will make these eight hundred li of marsh become Liangshan's bronze walls and iron bulwarks, as well as the source of our food and clothing! \"

Du Qian and Song Wan, seeing that the new chieftain and the other leaders were not ordinary men but harbored lofty aspirations, were pleased and convinced, and each declared their willingness to follow orders and exert their utmost effort.

Translation: "Du Qian and Song Wan, seeing that the new stronghold chief and the other leaders were no ordinary men, with lofty aspirations, were heartily convinced and all declared their willingness to follow orders and give their utmost."

Seeing everyone united in purpose, Chao Gai felt greatly relieved, and at once, following Wu Yong's suggestion, he preliminarily clarified each leader's duties:

Translation: "Seeing everyone united in purpose, Chao Gai felt greatly relieved and, following Wu Yong's proposal, promptly clarified each leader's duties:"

Wu Yong took charge of overall military and political affairs; Lin Chong supervised infantry and cavalry training; the three Ruan brothers commanded the navy and also oversaw fishing and hunting production; Du Qian and Song Wan assisted Lin Chong and were responsible for the stronghold's daily defense; Bai Sheng, being clever, took charge of gathering intelligence from the surrounding area.

Translation: "Wu Yong would oversee military and political affairs as chief advisor; Lin Chong would command infantry and cavalry drill; the three Ruan brothers would lead the navy and also oversee fishing and hunting production; Du Qian and Song Wan would assist Lin Chong and take charge of the stronghold's daily guard; Bai Sheng, for his cleverness, would handle intelligence gathering below the mountain."

As for the posts of provisions manager and record keeper, Wu Yong will temporarily hold them until suitable persons are found, after which they will be assigned.

Translation: "As for the posts of commissary and clerk, Wu Yong would temporarily hold them until suitable candidates are found and then assign them."

Shi Dun stood silently to the side, listening; when the discussion paused, he stepped forward and, with clasped hands, said to Chao Gai and the assembly:

Translation: "Shi Dun stood silently to the side; when the discussion paused, he stepped forward a pace and, with clasped hands, addressed Chao Gai and the assembly:"

"Your Majesty, leaders. My master, having heard that our stronghold has been newly established with a firm Northward Aspiration, has specially sent me to present several concrete suggestions for your and the strategist's consideration."

Translation: "\"Your Majesty, chiefs. My master, having heard that the stronghold has been newly established with firm resolve for Northward Aspiration, has specially sent me to bring several concrete suggestions for your and the advisor's consideration. \"

Chao Gai hastily replied:

Translation: "Chao Gai hastily replied:"

"Brother Shi Dun, please speak! Master Chen's lofty views—we are all ears!"

Translation: "\"Brother Shi Dun, please speak! Master Chen's lofty views — we are all ears! \"

Shi Dun spoke in a deep voice:

Translation: "Shi Dun spoke in a deep voice:"

"First, establish a Hall of Heroic Martyrs. All brothers of our Liangshan who die or are wounded in the cause of the Northward Aspiration, whether leaders or rank‑and‑file, shall be enshrined and receive offerings; their families shall be supported by the stronghold. This will unite hearts, make soldiers fight without fear, and leave no worries behind."

Translation: "\"First, establish a Hall of Valiant Heroes. All brothers of our Liangshan who die or are wounded in the cause of Northward Aspiration, whether leaders or rank‑and‑file, shall be enshrined and receive offerings; their families shall be supported by the stronghold. This will unite hearts, make soldiers fight without fear, and leave no rear‑line worries. \"

"Second, set up a Lecture Hall of Martial Arts. It is not merely for practicing combat skills; Lin the instructor, Wu the strategist, and others must explain to the troop leaders the great righteousness of the Northward Aspiration, analyze the state of the world, so they know why and for whom they fight. Only an army that understands its cause can possess an iron spirit."

Translation: "\"Second, set up a Martial Lecture Hall. It is not merely for martial drills; Lin the instructor, Wu the military advisor, and others must explain to the troop leaders the great righteousness of Northward Aspiration, analyze the state of the world, so they know why and for whom they fight. Only an army that understands its cause can possess an iron soul. \"

"Third, establish the 'Three Great Disciplines': (1) do not disturb the neighboring populace; (2) surrender all seized goods to the public store and distribute them according to merit; (3) all actions must obey orders. Though these rules may seem strict at first, only thus can we distinguish ourselves from ordinary bandits, win the people's hearts, and lay a firm foundation."

Translation: "\"Third, institute the 'Three Great Disciplines': (1) do not harass the neighboring populace; (2) surrender all seized goods to the public store and distribute them according to merit; (3) every action must obey orders. Though the initial rules may seem harsh, only thus can we distinguish ourselves from ordinary bandits, win the people's hearts, and lay a firm foundation. \"

These three proposals each hit the mark, especially 'not disturbing the people' and the 'Lecture Hall,' surpassing the pattern of any stronghold at that time.

Translation: "These three suggestions each hit the mark, especially 'not harassing the populace' and the 'Martial Lecture Hall', surpassing the pattern of any stronghold at this time."

Upon hearing this, Chao Gai's eyes lit up and he repeatedly slapped the table:

Translation: "Hearing this, Chao Gai's eyes lit up and he repeatedly slapped the table:"

"Excellent! Excellent! Master Chen truly is a divine person! These three plans are exactly the cornerstone that will lay the foundation for Liangshan's century‑long enterprise! Let us act on his words at once!"

Translation: "\"Excellent! Excellent! Master Chen is truly a divine man! These three plans are exactly the cornerstone that will lay the foundation for Liangshan's century‑long enterprise! Let us act on his words at once! \"

Wu Yong likewise clapped his hands in praise:

Translation: "Wu Yong likewise clapped his hands in praise:"

"Master Chen's foresight is profound; I, Wu Yong, fall short! Establishing the shrine settles the soldiers' hearts, the lecture hall clarifies the aspiration, and strict discipline corrects the morale. With these three measures, what fear have we that the great undertaking will not succeed?"

Translation: "\"Master Chen's foresight is profound; I fall short! Establishing the shrine to settle the troops' hearts, the lecture hall to clarify aspirations, strict discipline to correct morale — with these three strategies, what fear have we that the great undertaking will not succeed? \"

Lin Chong, the Ruan brothers, and others likewise voiced their approval, and they admired the unseen Master Chen all the more.

Translation: "Lin Chong, the Ruan brothers, and others likewise voiced their approval, and they admired the unseen 'Master Chen' all the more."

Thereupon, Chao Gai acted swiftly and issued his orders.

Translation: "Thereupon, Chao Gai acted swiftly and issued orders."

He ordered men to select a secluded spot within the stronghold and erect the Hall of Heroic Martyrs;

Translation: "He ordered men to select a secluded spot within the stronghold and erect the Hall of Valiant Heroes;"

to establish the Lecture Hall beside the drill ground, with himself as chief lecturer, Wu Yong and Lin Chong as deputies, to give regular talks;

Translation: "to set up the Martial Lecture Hall beside the drill ground, with himself as chief lecturer, Wu Yong and Lin Chong as deputies, to give regular talks;"

and to proclaim the Three Great Disciplines to the entire stronghold and enforce them strictly.

Translation: "and to proclaim the Three Great Disciplines to the entire stronghold and enforce them strictly."

With the new regulations in place, the whole atmosphere of Liangshan was refreshed.

Translation: "With the new rules established, the whole atmosphere of Liangshan was renewed."

The bandits noticed that the leaders no longer merely eyed the passing merchants below, but began organizing them to reclaim wasteland, train in water skills, and even listen to the leaders' impassioned lectures on the 'Northward Aspiration' principle.

Translation: "The bandits discovered that the leaders no longer merely eyed the passing merchants below the mountain, but began organizing them to reclaim wasteland, train in water skills, and even listen to the leaders expound the stirring principles of 'Northward Aspiration'."

Although the training grew harsher and the rules stricter, they felt inexplicably more at ease, as if what they were doing was no longer mere banditry but a truly meaningful undertaking.

Translation: "Although the training grew harsher and the rules stricter, their hearts felt inexplicably more at ease, as if what they were doing was no longer banditry but a truly meaningful undertaking."

The villagers nearby also gradually noticed that the Liangshan outlaws seemed different from before; they no longer came down to harass, and sometimes, when they encountered officials and bullies oppressing the populace, the Liangshan forces would secretly step in to administer a lesson.

Translation: "The villagers nearby also gradually noticed that the Liangshan heroes seemed different from before; they not only ceased descending to harass, but sometimes, when encountering magistrates and bullies who oppressed the countryside, the Liangshan forces would secretly step in to administer a lesson."

A subtle sense of goodwill and anticipation began to stir quietly among the people.

Translation: "A subtle fondness and anticipation began to stir quietly among the populace."

That day, the Lecture Hall held its inaugural lecture.

Translation: "That day, the Martial Lecture Hall held its inaugural lecture."

Chao Gai himself took the stage; though his words were simple, they were sincere and heartfelt, as he described the dire state of the Khitan border incursions, the suffering of the Central Plains people, and Liangshan's Northward Aspiration.

Translation: "Chao Gai himself took the stage; though his words were simple, they were sincere and heartfelt, recounting the grim state of the Khitan border raids, the suffering of the Zhongyuan people, and the aspiration of Liangshan's 'Northward Aspiration'."

Below the stage, whether it was Lin Chong, a former officer, Ruan Xiaoqi, a fisherman, or an ordinary bandit, all felt their hearts surge and their eyes blaze.

Translation: "Below the stage, whether it was Lin Chong, a former officer, or Ruan Xiaoqi, a fisherman's son, or an ordinary bandit, all felt their hearts surge and their eyes blaze."

Chen Wen and Qian Gui quietly boarded a boat and moored far from Liangshan.

Translation: "Chen Wen and Qian Gui quietly boarded a boat and moored at a distance from Liangshan."

Through the 'initial sense of momentum,' Chen Wen could clearly 'see' that upon Liangshan a hitherto unprecedented surge of momentum—imbued with clear purpose and vigorous vitality—was gathering and swelling at an unprecedented speed!

Translation: "Through the 'Fortune Momentum Initial Perception', Chen Wen could clearly 'see' that upon Liangshan a hitherto unseen surge of Fortune Momentum — imbued with a distinct will and vigorous vitality — was gathering and swelling at an unprecedented speed!"

It was no longer chaotic killing energy, but an orderly, upward‑directed force!

Translation: "It was no longer chaotic killing intent, but an ordered, upward‑rising force!"

Although there remained a few dark specks still bound by the 'dark energy' chains (such as Song Jiang, who had not yet ascended the mountain), the main theme was already the soaring spark of 'Northward Aspiration'!

Translation: "Although there remained a few dark threads bound by the 'Yin Energy' chains (such as Song Jiang, who had not yet ascended the mountain), the main theme was already the soaring spark of 'Northward Aspiration'!"

"The foundation has been laid, the spark first ignited."

Translation: "\"The foundation is set, the spark first ignited. \""

Chen Wen spoke softly.

Translation: "Chen Wen spoke softly."

"Next, we must face the counter‑strike of the Iron Crow Army, and… guide this spark to find the next direction in which it can burn."

Translation: "\"Next, we must counter the Iron Crow Army's backlash and… guide this spark to find the next direction in which to burn. \""

Qian Gui said in a low voice:

Translation: "Qian Gui spoke in a low voice."

According to reports, Song Jiang was rather 'active' in assisting the authorities in 'investigating' the birthday tribute in Yuncheng, but he always seemed to divert the clues at crucial points. Behind this, there may be the Iron Crow Army pulling the strings, aiming to maintain their 'incense-fire bond' with Chao Tianwang and others, laying the groundwork for future interference in Liangshan.

As expected.

Chen Wen's gaze was calm.

"Let him perform. Now Liangshan's aspirations have changed; even if Song Jiang someday comes to the mountain, if he still advocates amnesty and compromise, under this 'Northward Aspiration' banner he is destined to be out of place."

"For now, we must aid Liangshan and quickly strengthen it."

He looked toward the north, his eyes deep.

The fate trajectory of the 'Jade Kirin' Lu Junyi, foreshadowed in the karma fragments, also seems to have rippled subtly with the change in Liangshan's foundation.

The path of Northward Aspiration is long and perilous.

But this first step has been firmly taken.