rebel army; insurgent forces
Refers to an army or military force considered illegitimate or rebellious, often contrasted with 官軍 (government/imperial forces). Commonly appears in historical or political contexts.
See also: 勝てば官軍、負ければ賊軍 · 官軍
There is a saying: 'If you win, you're the imperial army; if you lose, you're the rebel army.'
In history books, they are portrayed as a rebel army.