Many Generals of the Qin Dynasty consider prisoner soldiers as mere cannon fodder. When on the battlefield, if they manage to win, they are the first to charge; even if they lose, they still significantly weaken the enemy forces. To both sides, their lives and deaths are meaningless, just like someone who has been abandoned.
Therefore, unless necessary, prisoner soldiers rarely receive much equipment, and even their weapons are old and broken. So, even if they want to turn against their own side, they pose little threat.
Thus, to win hearts and minds, the first step is to treat everyone equally. This is why Ye Shikai asked Ma Yao for enough equipment and pay to make the prisoner soldiers feel they are part of the Qin Army, starting from the outside appearance.
"Shangguan, tell the cooks to prepare an extra meal tonight to welcome the new soldiers," Ye Shikai instructed.
"Don't worry, leave it to me."
