The Xiongnu raids chiefly targeted Yan and Zhao, so the army had a considerable distance to cover from Chang'an. Most of those recruited in Guanzhong were infantry, however, and Han Xin also sent men to Zhao State and Yan State to mobilize Great Han's finest cavalry.
Before their departure, Liu Bang asked, "Great General, are you confident of winning a great victory on this expedition?"
Han Xin told Liu Bang unequivocally, "Your Majesty, victory is certain, but crushing the Xiongnu in a single battle is impossible. A commander's capabilities are constrained by the strength of his country.
"When fighting the Xiongnu on the grasslands, without cavalry, we can only take a beating. Only with cavalry can we employ tactics and have a chance at a great victory.
"The Bow-Drawing People come and go like the wind. Unless they venture deep into the heart of the Central Plains themselves, they hold an inherently invincible position on the grasslands.
"If I had tens of thousands of cavalry, with three or even five horses per man and ample logistical support, I could certainly lead an army straight into the grasslands and sweep away the Hu People.
"But..."
Han Xin said no more. Everyone knew it was impossible. Supporting their current operations was already difficult enough; there could be no surplus supplies to sustain Han Xin on a march deep into the grasslands.
Han Xin led the army north through Zhao State.
Zhao State held a special place in the Han Dynasty's defensive system. Whenever the Xiongnu invaded, it had the authority to mobilize the forces of Dai State and Yan State to resist them together.
The Xiongnu came far faster than expected. After crossing Huguan Pass, Han Xin encountered a Xiongnu force outright. The two sides fought fiercely for a short while. Having