That day, thunderous war drums sounded outside Hanshan City.
Likewise, in a spur of the Primordial Mountain Range, the Self-Defense Army had gradually recovered after resting. The soldiers donned armor, carried spears, and hung close-range throwing weapons such as battle-axes at their waists.
They walked out of camp with their backs straight.
The officers began arranging their formations according to their superiors' instructions.
From Squad Leaders and Platoon Leaders to Commandants and Commandants of the Colonelcy, officers at every level bustled about.
Before long, the morning sun pierced the layers of clouds in the east, casting countless pillars of light through the sky onto the Cangling Army's formations. Their armor shone dazzlingly; at a glance, they resembled an ocean of steel. The lingering wisps of mist glowed in the sunlight.
Opposite them, the dark outline of the city walls was faintly visible. The defenders atop them were equally solemn and orderly. Reflected in their eyes was the assembled Cangling Army outside the city: tens of thousands of men spread across the plain, their banners blotting out the sky, stretching beyond sight.
Some were worried, some afraid, some excited, while others remained expressionless.
"Report, Director! We found no trace of enemy cavalry!" That was the first piece of intelligence the scouts brought back.
"Understood!"
Yang Qingliu said, "Director, could the enemy have hidden their cavalry?"
"They may have concealed their cavalry behind the army's flanks."
Guo Dundun added, "Han Cheng won't rashly deploy his cavalry for some time after the battle begins."
"It seems he intends to find the right moment-preferably after our main force attacks. An army is most vulnerable when it's moving!" Shen Zaitian said beside him.
Guo Dundun said calmly, "When enemies meet on a narrow road, the brave prevail. Though we have only ten thousand infantry, we