Hulao Pass was one of the world's most formidable passes, situated between two mountain peaks. From the front, it overlooked the Lingzhou Plains; from the rear, it could launch raids into the Laizhou Basin. It was of little use in peacetime, but once war broke out, it became ground that every military strategist had to fight over.
And it was not merely because of its treacherous terrain.
More importantly, Hulao Pass controlled the Zha Nanhe River. After the river ran through half of Laizhou, it connected directly to the Tongtian River, making it an important grain transport route.
When marching to war,
the most important thing was the supply of provisions.
The losses by land were such that not even one in ten remained, but with a water route, efficiency could soar severalfold. That was why Hulao Pass had to be held. Once Hulao Pass fell, provisions would flow endlessly into Laizhou through the Zha Nanhe River, leading to a drawn-out war lasting two years or even longer. Conversely, if Hulao Pass could hold for another hundred days, Yongle Prefecture's provisions would be exhausted, and the war would end within a few months.
"Hulao Pass. We're here."
Looking into the distance, ten li away, a colossal city crouched amid the natural barriers. The two mountain peaks beside it were like two demon-suppressing pillars, while the pass between them resembled a demon tiger pinned beneath them.
"Report—"
"This subordinate is Liang Pi, commander of Hulao Pass."
A deputy general came forward to receive them.
"Liang Pi."
Chen Sanshi asked, "Tell me the current situation at Hulao Pass."
"There are fewer than three hundred troops, and provisions are scarce as well."
Liang Pi looked at the tall, imposing steeds of the Black Armored Army and said worriedly, "Especially with so many warhorses,