Chapter 28: "The Enclosure Movement"
Following Ernst's orders, the East African colony initiated the "enclosure movement." In the first town, immigrants who were physically fit were selected by the sheriff to form the first Chinese army in the colony. These selected individuals began their preparations, including registration and equipment distribution.
A long line of selected soldiers stood in front of the town government in the first town, awaiting their turn for registration. Each recruit provided their name and age, receiving a unique serial number on a small card.
They were then issued military uniforms, which were light blue and included large-brimmed hats for sun protection, as well as yellow-green military shoes better suited to the African climate.
The recruits were divided into teams, and their mission was to establish new colonial strongholds in locations like Dodoma, Mwanza, and others. Their tasks included clearing indigenous populations, making the areas safe for subsequent immigrants, and establishing checkpoints along the way to create a safe immigration network.
Commander Andre and Officer Zhou Wei addressed the recruits, emphasizing the challenges they would face, including wildlife, insects, diseases, and the harsh African environment. The recruits were informed that they would undergo three days of intensive training to improve their survival skills.
Officer Zhou Wei, a recent graduate of the Hechingen Military Academy, spoke to the recruits, stressing the importance of discipline and obedience. He reminded them that their only identity was "soldier" and that they should follow orders without hesitation.
The recruits listened attentively to Zhou Wei's words, recognizing that their lives depended on their ability to work together and follow orders.
The training would begin the next day, and the recruits were instructed to assemble promptly, using the sound of the bell, as most of the Chinese immigrants did not have watches. Zhou Wei also assured the recruits that they could approach him with any issues in the future.
The chapter concludes with the recruits dispersing and settling into their temporary dormitory, reflecting on their experiences and the challenges that lay ahead.
Five days later, the six colonial teams gathered for a swearing-in ceremony before embarking on their mission to conquer East Africa.
(end of Chapter 28)