Grace Yue's Silent Strength: The Pillar of Henry Yuan's Guar Chapter 175

Simon Yan spent several days understanding the topography of the Hetao region and the current war situation. He also had a detailed conversation with Yu Shenglang, a general of the Datong Army, and subtly sought information about the situation in Datong Prefecture, especially the mood of the soldiers after the fall of the Feng family.

The result was not much different from what he had guessed. When Richard Feng was in office, the military funds were sufficient, the monthly salary was never delayed for a day, the rewards were generous, and the soldiers were never deprived of food and clothing. Every time a victory was won, Richard Feng did not take a penny of the court's rewards, but distributed them all to the soldiers. He led the troops well, and rewarded and punished clearly from top to bottom, and never showed favoritism. The local military and civilians lived in harmony. At that time, the Wala invaded constantly and wars were frequent, but the military and civilians were united, and both offense and defense were beneficial.

Although the Oirat Mongols were defeated now, the Datong army without Richard Feng was like a man without a soul. It had long lost its former glory. The soldiers and civilians of Datong all missed Richard Feng and the Feng family army.

Although Yu Shenglang did not express these thoughts directly, Simon Yan could hear them from his lost tone and euphemistic words. This made Simon Yan feel more at ease.

Most soldiers followed their generals to fight without any lofty ideals. They risked their lives just to earn a little money. If they couldn't even guarantee this, it would be hard not to be a deserter, let alone charge into battle. It is a pity that the once powerful Datong Army is now in decline.