Eastern Han Dynasty, not the Three Kingdoms

Gan Ning waved his hand, signaling silence to his men, silencing the chatter. His expression was serious, his gaze penetrating with thought and determination. He continued, "Such sentiments might not be surprising if born in a commoner's family. But we are all ordinary people, how can we possibly possess such deep feelings for our country? Ma Chao comes from a noble family, having lived comfortably since childhood, yet he genuinely cares for the people. His devotion is truly rare."

"Ma Chao, though young, possesses unrivaled martial arts skills and is invincible on the battlefield. He has already achieved unparalleled feats, and the Ma family is renowned throughout the northwest for their remarkable contributions to defending the nation. In my opinion, with his compassion for the people, combined with his exceptional martial arts skills and impressive military achievements, he is bound to rise like a shining star in troubled times. Perhaps Ma Chao can truly bring about a profound change in the world, supporting the Han Dynasty, unifying the country, restoring peace and prosperity, and becoming a hero whose name will be etched in history."

Gan Ning's eyes sparkled with determination as he addressed his men, "Brothers, I've come up with an idea. I'm thinking we could join Ma Chao and venture forth with him. Perhaps we can carve out a new world for ourselves."

As soon as these words were spoken, the tribesmen began to whisper among themselves, with most people's eyes gleaming with approval. However, a few voices of doubt were also heard from the crowd.

Tribe A frowned slightly, a look of worry on his face, and said, "Brother, we've always been known as the Jinfan Bandits, and that's a bad reputation. Ma Chao comes from a prominent family, so how can he truly accept us, the despised bandits? I'm afraid if we go there, we'll just be met with a cold shoulder."

Tribe member B also echoed, his face full of worry: "Yes, big brother. We have such a good reputation. Ma Chao might dislike us in his heart, but he just doesn't show it on the surface. If we rashly go to join him, I'm afraid we will be looked down upon by him in the future."

Gan Ning calmed down after hearing this, waved his hand, and said earnestly, "Brothers, I understand your concerns. But from my interactions with Ma Chao, I've seen that he genuinely cares for the people, wholeheartedly seeking their well-being. Furthermore, he's been honest with us, displaying many good intentions. Based on this, I'm certain that Ma Chao isn't one of those shallow people who judge others by their background and reputation. He has great ambitions, and he wants to achieve great things in these troubled times. If we follow him, we can not only shed the stigma of being a bandit, but also secure a bright future for ourselves. Why not?"

After hearing this, Tribe C nodded thoughtfully and said, "Brother, what you said does make sense. I've also come to realize that Ma Chao is indeed a man worth following. Let's trust you this time and follow you!"

Ding, one of the tribe members, also responded loudly: "That's right, big brother has always had a unique vision. I am willing to follow you and join Ma Chao. Maybe from now on, we can make a name for ourselves!"

When the others heard this, they nodded in agreement and shouted in unison: "Yes, listen to Big Brother, let's join Ma Chao!"

At this point, the tribesmen reached a consensus and decided to follow Gan Ning and join Ma Chao.

The blazing flames burned fiercely, their tongues swirling wildly, mercilessly engulfing the firewood and Ma Chao's brave brothers. Ma Chao stood quietly by, his eyes fixed on the fire, letting the scorching heat hit him, and he was unaware that his clothes were soaked with sweat.

Time slipped slowly by, as if frozen by this tragic scene. Finally, the raging flames died down, leaving only a pile of ashes still emitting wisps of smoke. Ma Chao's expression was solemn, and his voice, slightly hoarse, commanded, "Carefully gather up the brothers' ashes and wrap them carefully." Only after his personal guards had properly gathered the ashes did he slowly gather his turbulent thoughts and, with heavy yet determined steps, head towards Gan Ning and his followers in the distance.

Ma Chao quickly approached Gan Ning and his men. Before he could speak, Gan Ning had already knelt on one knee, and his men behind him knelt in unison. Seeing this, Ma Chao looked panicked and hurried forward to support them, saying anxiously, "Xingba, what's going on? What does this mean?"

Gan Ning raised his head, his eyes filled with sincerity and respect. He spoke firmly, "My Lord! For a long time, I, Gan Ning, have had great ambitions, but have yet to find a wise leader. Helplessly, I have been forced to bow down to the name 'Brocade Sail Thief,' and drift through the martial arts world. Throughout this journey, I have robbed the rich and helped the poor, but this has always been unjustifiable, and I have often felt depressed."

"To this day, in my interactions with the Lord, I have witnessed your concern for the world, your empathy for the suffering of the people, and your every action dedicated to the well-being of all. Though born into a noble family, you possess no arrogance, your single-minded focus solely on finding a way forward for the common people in these troubled times. This noble character fills Gan Ning with deep admiration, leaving him feeling ashamed of himself."

"I am willing to lead all my men and women to serve you wholeheartedly. From now on, we will serve you at your side and follow your lead. Whether the road ahead is full of thorns or a sea of ​​fire, we will not hesitate to help you achieve your great cause of supporting the world and bringing peace to the world!"

Ma Chao hurriedly supported Gan Ning with both hands, his expression anxious and sincere. "Xingba, please don't be so polite! This matter is serious, you must think it through! We only met today, why are you so kind and trusting of me?"

Gan Ning looked solemnly and resolutely at Ma Chao, saying sincerely, "Lord, although this is my first meeting, I've long heard of your great name. I've heard that you love your soldiers like your own sons, truly treating them as brothers. This kind of friendship is rare in this world. Your actions just now towards your own fallen guards have made me deeply impressed. Moreover, you always care about the people, and everything you do is for their well-being. This kind of heart is more than ten times better than that of the world's mediocre people! I am fortunate to have met a wise leader like you today. If you are unwilling to surrender, my life will be meaningless, and I will have no face to live in this world!"

Ma Chao's eyes welled up as he used both hands to lift Gan Ning to his feet. His voice trembled slightly, filled with emotion and lamentation: "Xingba, you must not do such a great gift! I, Ma Chao, cannot repay your sincerity. We meet today for the first time, yet it feels like we've known each other for ages. This trust is worth a thousand gold!"

"I've only done my share. How could I possibly deserve your affection? The world is in turmoil, and the people are suffering. I'm simply trying to do my part. I've also heard of your reputation and chivalry, Gan Ning, and have long hoped to stand shoulder to shoulder with a hero like you."

"If you truly submit, I, Ma Chao, swear to heaven that I will stand by you and all my brothers, through thick and thin. We will share happiness and hardship, and I will never let you suffer the slightest injustice. Together, we will forge a peaceful world in this troubled time, and live up to the passion and ambition of our brothers!"

Ma Chao gladly accepted Gan Ning and his men. Everyone's eyes lit up, unable to conceal their excitement. They whispered to one another, filled with anticipation for the future. Seeing this, Gan Ning immediately shouted, "This is a great day! Hurry and prepare the feast!" Soon, the soldiers bustled about, moving tables and chairs and serving up a sumptuous feast.

Gan Ning respectfully approached Ma Chao, extended his hand, and said, "Sir, please take a seat!" Ma Chao did not refuse and went straight to the main seat. At this time, Lu Su smiled and said to Gan Ning, "Xingba, since you have surrendered, please stop calling me Sir. You should call me Lord." Ma Chao heard this and waved his hand gently, "We are brothers. It's just a title. Calling me Sir is a bit too distant. Just call me Mengqi." Gan Ning's face was serious, and he solemnly changed his words again, "My Lord, this title cannot be confused. You are both talented and ambitious, and you care about the world. Gan Ning believes that you are the Lord we follow." Seeing Gan Ning's firm attitude, Ma Chao did not insist.

Pan Feng and Wu Anguo, with solemn expressions, arrived late at the banquet after collecting the soldiers' ashes. Seeing this, Ma Chao immediately rose to greet them, gazing at them with a burning gaze. "Have you finished collecting the remains of our brothers?" Pan Feng nodded slightly, his expression heavy with sorrow but a hint of determination, and replied, "We have."

Ma Chao's expression grew increasingly solemn, his lips tightly pursed as he glanced at the crowd. Then, with a powerful wave of his hand, he ordered, "Then gather these ashes together with the armor, weapons, and other belongings of our fallen brothers, and ensure they are kept properly."

Gan Ning frowned, his face full of confusion. He couldn't help but step forward, bowed to Ma Chao and asked, "My lord, what does this mean?" His face was full of confusion about Ma Chao's actions.

Ma Chao's expression was solemn, and he tilted his head slightly upward, his eyes revealing reminiscence and determination. He gently patted Gan Ning's shoulder and said slowly, "Xingba, I established this rule when I was in charge of the Xiliang army." As he spoke, Ma Chao's eyes became soft and affectionate. "The remains and ashes of these brothers who died in battle, no matter where they are, must be brought back to Xiliang and handed over to their families." Ma Chao clenched his fists and spoke in a more serious tone, "In the future, if their families encounter difficulties in life, whether they are oppressed by officials, not receiving the pensions they deserve, or facing unfair treatment, they only need to bring the soldiers' armor, weapons, and other belongings and come directly to the army to report." Ma Chao looked into the distance with a firm gaze and said loudly, "I, Ma Chao, and the entire Xiliang camp are their support. We will support them and make decisions for them!"

Upon hearing this, Gan Ning and his generals were startled for a moment, then their faces shifted to a state of admiration and emotion. Gan Ning nodded emphatically, and the generals began to whisper to each other, their respect for Ma Chao growing, each one deeply impressed.

Gan Ning, with a solemn expression, raised his wine bowl high with both hands. His eyes were filled with reverence and enthusiasm as he addressed Ma Chao respectfully, "My Lord! I, Gan Ning, have never heard of such thoughtful consideration. My brothers are truly fortunate to have such a wise leader like you today!" He bowed slightly and said sincerely, "My Lord, I offer you a bowl of wine!"

Everyone then sat down to enjoy the feast. The atmosphere was lively, with everyone toasting each other and laughing. After eating and drinking to their heart's content, everyone took a short break.

The next morning, the sky was shimmering with light. With Gan Ning's surrender complete, Ma Chao instructed his men to take only the essentials. Looking at the mountain of supplies, he thought they might bring some relief to the local people, and decided to leave the rest in Yu Village.

At the dock, the common people came to see them off. Their eyes were filled with gratitude, and in the morning light, their simple faces were filled with reluctance and blessings. Ma Chao, Gan Ning, and the Jinfan tribesmen, facing the morning light, stepped firmly onto the boat. As the oars moved, the boat slowly moved forward, creating ripples that seemed to speak of the friendship of this encounter and mutual assistance. Carrying everyone's lofty aspirations, they set sail for a new journey.