720: The Emperor Personally Led the Expedition (Part Two) [Combined]

Miao River was one of the most important rivers in the northwest of the continent.

It flowed generally from west to east.

Its tributaries were tangled and complex, while the main channel as a whole resembled a massive dragon poised to take flight. The river wound through Yanzhou and Ganzhou, forming a natural moat that divided the two regions. At its narrowest, the Miao River was only a dozen or so zhang across; at its widest, it spanned more than twenty li.

The stretch along the border between Yanzhou and Ganzhou lay between the upper and middle reaches.

Before the flood season, the current ran gently.

Unless there was a drought, the Miao River would rise rapidly once flood season arrived, irrigating and nourishing the life along both banks. In exchange, its waters also grew turbulent. At this time of year, the glaciers in the upper reaches of the Miao River were gradually melting.

"...Based on the direction the National Seal appeared last night, Zheng Qiao should be at Mount Ao in Ganzhou right now. That's this area."

Chu Yao pointed to a spot near the upper stretch of the river on the map. The Dragon Slaying Bureau's Alliance Army had carefully chosen this place as a strategic stronghold. Their initial plan had been to launch a surprise attack before Zheng Qiao could react, secure a foothold, then establish defensive lines and advance step by step. Who could have guessed Zheng Qiao would personally lead the expedition from the outset? He had completely disrupted the Alliance Army's plans and put them under pressure.

What kind of pressure?

As the attacking side, the Alliance Army faced enormous risks crossing the river. Zheng Qiao could even strike while their troops were still crossing and hadn't yet secured the far bank. For instance,