Chapter 336: The Ascending Hot Air Balloon
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In Qingzhou, front-line battle reports were quickly transmitted back to Prince Qi’s residence via the official relay stations along the road.
The news that the barbarian commander Kuha had been slain and his ten-thousand-strong unit shattered reached the Governor’s Mansion within a single day. Niu Ben had specially ordered the relay to deliver the news overnight to Qingzhou.
“Excellent! Niu Ben executed a flawless field annihilation outside Yunzhou. According to his report, our casualties were almost negligible—a true and total victory.”
In the Governor’s Hall, Xiao Ming handed the report to Zhan Xingchang.
Zhan studied the document intently, stroking his beard as he smiled and commented:
“It appears that flintlock rifles, when combined with this new formation, now allow the Qingzhou army to fight the barbarians even in open terrain. If that’s the case, we may even be able to stand toe-to-toe with Chagatai’s main force.”
“Niu Ben wrote that he plans to rest a few days before advancing to Jizhou. The success of combining hollow square and wagon fort formations has clearly bolstered his confidence,” Xiao Ming said.
“Your Highness,” Zhan replied, “perhaps it’s unwise to have General Niu advance into Jizhou so hastily. Chagatai’s forces still hold the upper hand in numbers. Once we push further into Jizhou, our supply lines will be dangerously extended. The region is crawling with displaced mobs—if the barbarians or rebels sever our logistics, our soldiers would be in grave danger. We’re aiding Jizhou, yes, but preserving our strength must also be a priority.”
Xiao Ming nodded. Qingzhou soldiers didn’t fear battle—they feared running out of rations. If Chagatai surrounded the Qingzhou army without launching a direct assault, within ten days they’d face starvation.
“So what do you propose?” Xiao Ming asked. In the realm of ancient political strategy, Zhan was the true expert.