Chapter 242: Blockade at Zojila Pass
The Tibetan Alliance was formed by the western kingdoms of Tibet and the central Tibetan kingdom to defend against the eastern Tibetan kingdoms, which were closer to the Ming Empire in China.
The western kingdoms, primarily in the Ngari region, included the Guge, Gweya, and Nakchu kingdoms. These three great powers shared strong cultural and familial ties with the Namgyals of Ladakh in India. Because of these connections, they forged a defensive treaty with the Namgyals when the Northern Empire threatened their very existence.
Ladakh, zojilla pass, morning of 28th April 1557
The crisp morning air at Zozilla Pass carried the first rays of sunlight over the snow-capped peaks that glistened like silver on the icy terrain.
’Crunch!’
’Thud!’
The stillness of dawn was broken by the rhythmic thud of hooves dragging war supplies and the crunch of soldiers’ boots on the frozen ground as the 3,000 Guge forces marched into view. Their banners, vibrant against the pale blue sky, swayed gracefully in the morning breeze, heralding the arrival of a disciplined sea of warriors.
At the head of the column, Prince Drepung Zangpo rode a sturdy horse, his elegant armor reflecting his noble stature.
"Reinforcements have arrived!"
"We are saved! Oh great Buddha!"