In this way, working on multiple fronts, the four finally built Azure Cloud Stockade up to 1,200 people.
A mountain stronghold of this size was already a formidable force.
Because the imperial court's troops stationed nearby, across one prefecture and ten counties, amounted to only one battalion of regular troops—just 500 men.
And they were short by nearly half their official quota, with only 300 regular troops.
The rest were able-bodied men temporarily conscripted.
But the good times did not last. Their first trial finally arrived.
Seeing their numbers grow and their strength become secure, the four finally turned their hands toward the Salt Mine.
The mountain logistics they had previously established—the Earthworm Base, Mushroom Base, and so on—could only sustain the population. They could not be exchanged for weapons, armor, silver, or horses.
Moreover, grain was a bulk commodity that was difficult to transport secretly over long distances.
Salt, however, was different. It could be transported in secret.
Before long, the Private Salt business was flourishing.
They secretly sent people down the mountain and deep into villages and countryside. Their salt sold for only one-tenth of the official price, yet they still made a profit.
In particular, they could use salt, this "general equivalent," to trade for other supplies, exchanging it for iron, cloth, coal, and more.
Salt was an excellent general equivalent in ancient times. First, it did not depreciate; people always needed to eat salt.
Second, it could be stored for a long time. It would be fine even after hundreds of years.
Finally, it was small in volume while retaining considerable value.
With these three advantages, it surpassed most barter goods.
Ordinary people simply lacked a source of salt, so they could not do this. When bartering in daily life, they could only rely on common