Chapter 9: The Obstacle on the Road

Ning Ye paid little mind to it; after all, no one would likely believe the words of a mere greenhorn.

Pushing open the only room, he found it mostly stacked with grain, along with a small chest on top. Opening the chest revealed neatly arranged three hundred taels of silver.

In a corner, there was a pile of clothing, seemingly scavenged from who knows where—worn and tattered, yet still better than what the refugees had on.

As for weapons, if that heap of scrap metal could even be called weapons.

Lin Qinshu, who had come along, roughly counted the grain sacks. “Husband, there are at least a hundred sacks here. It seems the county magistrate really invested heavily in grain supplies.”

Ning Ye casually opened a sack and grabbed a handful. It was clear the grain was over three years old, judging by its appearance.

But as long as it was edible, what did it matter? After all, being able to eat was the most important thing.

Jokingly, Ning Ye said, “Wife, if we run off with all this grain, we’ll never have to worry about food and drink again.”

Though meant in jest, Lin Qinshu took it seriously. “With so much grain, it won’t be easy to transport, and sneaking it away quietly will be even harder. Husband, we should think this through first.”

Her earnest expression made Ning Ye laugh. “Wife, has anyone ever told you that you can be quite adorable at times? Alright, let’s take these people back first.”

Exiting the room, Ning Ye called out, “There are some clothes inside. Each of you pick one that fits and change out of those rags you’re wearing.”

Without new clothes, they rushed in without hesitation, all diving into the room. Ning Ye stood at the door, watching closely—if anyone acted out of line, he would have to assert his authority.

As expected, the chest of silver was left uncovered. One man, while changing, quietly moved closer and reached out his hand. Ning Ye acted immediately.

His hand, as firm as iron tongs, grabbed the man. Coldly, he said, “Though this silver is your pay, when you get it is up to me.”

The man panicked and begged, “Sir, I wasn’t thinking clearly. And I didn’t succeed, did I? Please spare me.”

“I’m setting the first rule: without my order, don’t touch what’s not yours.”

Everyone nodded dumbly. As for the thief, Ning Ye kicked him out of the group.

Having a rogue in the ranks was dangerous—it could corrupt others.

Once everyone had changed, they still looked unkempt, their bodies filthy, and in this sweltering summer, the stench was overwhelming.

There was no place to stay in the county town, so Ning Ye loaded part of the grain onto carts and had the group push them back to Qingyuan Village. Otherwise, he had nowhere to train these men.

He also brought the scrap weapons along—better to have something than nothing.

Still, as they traveled, their odd procession drew many curious glances.

The man who had been tailing Ning Ye sensed their departure and hurriedly went to spread the news.

At that moment, Hu Erbiao gathered four or five of his men. Upon hearing the report, his eyes gleamed with excitement.

He knew about the recruitment but hadn’t realized Ning Ye was involved. Those carts must be loaded with grain.

Three large carts of grain—selling it would bring a hefty sum. Not to mention, a beauty was waiting for him. How could Hu Erbiao restrain himself?

He gathered his men and set off. Today, he wanted what Ning Ye had.

Ning Ye’s group, pushing carts, naturally moved slowly. Soon after leaving the city gate, Ning Ye called for a rest.

Though the refugees didn’t understand the purpose, they gladly took the break, dropping their burdens and finding places to sit.

Before long, Ning Ye spotted Hu Erbiao approaching hastily with a few men.

Panting, Hu Erbiao looked at Ning Ye. “You’re dragging along such a burden, can’t keep up, huh?”

Lin Qinshu tensed—she remembered this man well.

“I’m just waiting for you here. Some matters are better settled sooner.”

Hu Erbiao was surprised. “You’re waiting for me? Did you know from the start my men were following you?”

Ning Ye crossed his arms. “Your brain’s not sharp, and your men aren’t much smarter. Do you think you can fool me?”

Hu Erbiao laughed bitterly. “Sharp-tongued brat, no one’s saving you today.”

As he spoke, his men advanced aggressively, treating Ning Ye like prey on a chopping block.

But Ning Ye remained calm. “You think you have more people? I believe my side’s bigger.”

Anyone not blind could see the situation was off. The newly recruited refugees instinctively stood behind Ning Ye—some thirty strong.

Hu Erbiao scoffed, not taking them seriously. “A bunch of newly recruited refugees want to oppose me? Are you planning to die for this brat?”

His men brandished knives, their blades gleaming sharply—clearly well maintained.

To have survived this long as a local thug in Qingyuan County, they had to have some skill.

Most refugees were terrified; many had been simple farmers, never having fought or even thrown a punch, let alone engaged in a deadly brawl.

Only Wang Wu stood at the forefront, blocking Ning Ye. In his hand appeared a rusty long knife.

Ning Ye was pleased—at least Wang Wu wasn’t timid and seemed to be an experienced veteran.

If all his men were like this, Ning Ye was confident he could wipe out the bandits in the shortest time. Sadly, capable men were rare and precious.