Eastern Han Dynasty, not the Three Kingdoms

Ma Teng welcomed Ma Chao and the others into the mansion. Ma Chao's mother, beaming with joy, led her younger brothers and sisters to the inner chambers, where they accompanied Madam Lu, Lu Wan, Dong Bai, and other female relatives. Laughter and conversation filled the air. As the women walked, Ma Chao's mother meticulously arranged Madam Lu's accommodations.

On the other side, Ma Teng walked towards the hall with Ma Chao and the others in a calm manner.

In the hall, after everyone had taken their seats, Ma Chao straightened his posture and solemnly and respectfully introduced Xun Yu and Zao Zhi. His face was serious, and his voice was steady and forceful. "Father, everyone, this is Mr. Xun Yu, also known as Xun Wenruo. He possesses exceptional wisdom and foresight, a rare talent for assisting the emperor." Ma Chao then turned to look at Xun Yu, who nodded slightly. Then, pointing to Zao Zhi, Ma Chao added, "And this is Mr. Zao Zhi. He possesses extraordinary insights and abilities in governing and maintaining peace for the people, and his talent should not be underestimated."

Upon hearing this, Ma Teng's eyes lit up with delight. He quickly stood up and walked quickly towards Xun Yu and Zao Zhi, saying excitedly, "Oh my! I've heard of you two great names for a long time. It's such an honor to meet you today! The presence of these two great men is truly a blessing for our Ma family!" His face was filled with joy, and he expressed deep affection and respect for these two talented people. He bowed repeatedly, as if he had encountered rare treasures. His desire and cherishment for these talented people were beyond words. The others in the hall also cast respectful glances at him, expressing their high recognition and welcome to these two great men.

Ma Teng said, "Xiliang has been through a long period of war. People are now destitute and suffering. Foreign tribes are eyeing us covetously. I wonder what you two gentlemen have to teach me."

Xun Yu pondered for a moment, then slowly said, "The current situation in Xiliang is indeed difficult. The most urgent task is to stabilize the situation and appease the people. Foreign tribes are eyeing us covetously. We need to strengthen our armaments, enforce strict military discipline, and enhance our military's combat effectiveness for defense."

Zao Zhi then said, "In my opinion, we can implement the policy of military farming. Military farming can be divided into military farming and civilian farming. Military farming mainly allows the army to participate in agricultural production in their spare time. This can not only achieve self-sufficiency and reduce the pressure of transporting food and fodder, but also maintain the combat effectiveness and discipline of the army. Civilian farming, on the other hand, organizes the people to engage in large-scale farming and provides them with certain support and guidance. This will quickly restore agricultural production, improve people's livelihood, and enable the people to recover quickly."

Ma Teng said excitedly, "What you two great men have said is exactly what I want! With your help, Xiliang will surely be stable and prosperous! I, Ma Teng, sincerely ask you to help me achieve my great cause. What are your thoughts?"

Xun Yu and Zao Zhi exchanged a glance, and Xun Yu frowned slightly. "We came here to serve the people of the world, not just any one person. But seeing your sincerity and ambition, and your concern for the people, we are willing to stay in Xiliang for a while and work for their well-being."

Zao Zhi also nodded and said, "That's right, but we still need to think about the title of Lord."

Ma Teng quickly said, "Don't worry, please wait and see what I, Ma Teng, will do in the future. I will definitely live up to your expectations. Heaven and earth can witness my respect for you two. I hope you can give me a chance."

At this time, Ma Chao also stepped forward and said, "My father is dedicated to serving the people. Gentlemen, I hope you can lend him a hand."

Xun Yu thought for a moment and then said, "Well, let's wait and see what the general does in the future. If he can really do as you say, we will assist him wholeheartedly."

Zao Zhi also said, "Okay, that's it."

Ma Teng was overjoyed and exclaimed, "Excellent! Excellent!" He then added sincerely, "I will work hand in hand with the two of you to create great success together! From today on, I appoint Xun Yu as the Chief Military Advisor, responsible for overseeing all military and political affairs. I appoint Zao Zhi as the Assistant Governor, responsible for managing the provincial documents, archives, and some government affairs. Zao Zhi will also serve as the Official in Charge of Land, specifically in charge of military farms."

Xun Yu and Zao Zhi exchanged a glance. Xun Yu stepped forward, bowed, and said, "I am grateful for your kindness and trust, my lord. I will do my utmost to offer you advice and assist you in managing military and political affairs, and live up to your trust." Zao Zhi added, "Since your lord values ​​me so highly, I will do my utmost to fulfill my duties and work alongside Mr. Xun Yu to contribute to the stability and development of Xiliang."

Ma Teng looked at the two men with a piercing gaze and said firmly, "I am fortunate to have your help. Now we need to make careful plans to revitalize Xiliang."

Xun Yu spoke slowly, "My lord, in the current situation, the most urgent task is to stabilize the people's hearts and develop production. We can vigorously promote the policy of military farming, which can not only ensure the supply of military food, but also ensure that the people can live and work in peace and contentment."

Zao Zhi nodded in agreement and said, "That's right. In addition, we need to strengthen military training and improve the combat effectiveness of the army to prevent foreign invasions."

Ma Teng nodded slightly, then pondered for a moment before saying, "My son, Ma Chao, can handle the heavy responsibility of military training. Regarding the recruitment and development of talented individuals, what are your thoughts?"

Xun Yu stroked his beard and said, "We can set up many recruitment halls to attract talented people from all over the country. Those with real talent and knowledge should be given important positions. At the same time, we can establish schools to cultivate local talents."

Zao Zhi continued, "We can also formulate some incentive policies to encourage the people to learn martial arts and literature, so as to reserve strength for future development."

Ma Teng nodded repeatedly, his eyes filled with excitement. "Excellent! Excellent! I'll do as you two say. We will restore Xiliang's glory in our hands!"

Ma Chao then pointed to the three generals in the hall and said, "Father, look! This tall and imposing figure is General Dian Wei. His courage and strength are truly extraordinary, and his martial arts are truly astonishing. He is truly a rare and fierce general in the world, and his martial arts are on par with Meng Qi and me." Ma Teng's eyes flickered with admiration as he nodded slightly and said with a smile, "He is truly a fierce general. Such courage and strength are a blessing to our army."

Ma Chao then pointed to another man and said, "Father, this is General Zhang Xiu. We've met before during our campaign against Han Sui's rebellion." Ma Teng looked at Zhang Xiu, a thoughtful look in his eyes. After a moment, he said gently, "General Zhang Xiu, your uncle Zhang Ji and I are old acquaintances. We are fortunate to have you here to relieve the siege of Wuwei. Thank you very much. From now on, we will work together for our common goal." Zhang Xiu quickly bowed and replied, "Thank you, my lord."

Ma Chao then introduced him, "Father, this is General Xu Huang. Although he once served as a bandit, he remains loyal and righteous. He is also a highly skilled warrior. Even more remarkable is his profound mastery of strategizing and deploying troops. He is truly a rare and capable general." Ma Teng smiled with satisfaction and nodded repeatedly, saying, "Excellent, excellent! I am truly blessed to have such a capable general."

Then Ma Teng looked at everyone and said solemnly: "Now that Chao'er is back, all military affairs will be handed over to Chao'er in the future. I will only take care of the people's livelihood and internal affairs. The three generals can rest assured to serve under Chao'er in the future. Chao'er will make proper arrangements based on the actual situation." Dian Wei, Xu Huang, and Zhang Xiu responded in unison: "Yes, sir!" Ma Teng smiled and said to them: "The three generals are all loyal and brave men. In the future, you must make more achievements for our army. I, Ma Teng, will not treat you unfairly." The three responded gratefully and expressed that they would go all out to serve Ma Teng and his son.

Everyone's eyes fixed on Ma Teng and Ma Chao, father and son, their eyes filled with joy. The bond between them was truly remarkable. Ma Teng had no lingering desire for power and demonstrated complete and unconditional trust in Ma Chao. Upon Ma Chao's return, Ma Teng unhesitatingly entrusted all military and political affairs to Ma Chao, willingly offering his services to protect his rear. This act clearly demonstrated the immense bond between father and son, and also showcased Ma Teng's broad-mindedness. While everyone had joined Ma Chao because of him, Ma Teng was ultimately the mastermind. If Ma Teng's greed for power had constrained Ma Chao, preventing him from exercising his will, then Ma Chao would have been unable to achieve anything. Fortunately, the current situation was reassuring; Ma Teng's generosity and trust presented a bright future for everyone.

Ma Chao's return made Ma Teng overjoyed, especially since he had brought with him many civil and military officials. This undoubtedly greatly enhanced the Ma family's military authority and took it to a higher level. Ma Teng was filled with joy and relief, and his excitement was beyond words. He immediately ordered a banquet to celebrate.

At the banquet, fine wine and delicious food were served one after another. Ma Teng warmly entertained everyone, drinking heartily with everyone, and laughter and joy echoed continuously. Guests and hosts toasted each other and talked about their aspirations and expectations for the future. The atmosphere was warm and cheerful. Everyone was immersed in this joyful atmosphere, enjoying this feast to the fullest, until everyone left with a bang.