Chapter 122

The Hatu region, embraced by the Yellow River flowing in the shape of a “几,” later became the land of nomadic tribes and was commonly referred to as Ordos. However, it is accurately divided into two regions: the Ordos Plateau and the Loess Plateau. Hatu, Ordos, and the Loess Plateau—these names do not perfectly refer to the same area, but they share significant overlapping territories and were often used interchangeably as nicknames. Strictly speaking, the southern Loess Plateau and the northern Ordos Plateau should be considered separate regions. The Loess Plateau, surrounded by the Taihang Mountains to the east and the Jin Ling Mountain Range between Guanzhong and Hanzhong, boasted a diverse terrain. Fertile plains, mountain ranges, hills with lakes, and valleys formed by erosion—all combined to form Bingzhou of the Later Han Dynasty. Despite later perceptions of it as barren due to severe soil erosion, Bingzhou of that era was surprisingly suitable for both pastoralism and agriculture, thanks to the abundant water from the Yellow River’s tributaries. Water resources were essential for both pastoralism and farming, and the region’s fertility made it a contested area between nomads and settlers, the Xiongnu and the Han Dynasty. As we entered Bingzhou after crossing the northern mountains, the vast grasslands before us evoked awe. “Amazing. I didn’t expect such fertile land beyond the northern mountains,” said Kang Yu. Bi Yi agreed, “Indeed. No wonder Bingzhou was established here.” Even I, with some knowledge of the area, was surprised. The lands we saw were as fertile as Kang Yu described, contrary to my negative expectations of the region as the source of yellow dust. Historical records of Emperor Wu and Emperor Guangwu sending 700,000 settlers to cultivate the area made sense. The natural beauty momentarily made us forget we were marching to war. Bi Yi, inspired by the scenery, composed a short verse. Later, he whispered to me, “Commander Wei, your decision to take the Yongzhou route instead of the northern mountains was wise. It boosted the soldiers’ morale.” I glanced at the supply carts, which also served as combat vehicles, essential for infantry against cavalry and central to Zhuge Liang’s Eight Array Formation. Dobbapilgo, our guide, announced, “The Wuding River is near.” The Wuding River, named for its unpredictable flow, was our primary water source. After days of marching, we reached the old Sanyan County. “Release the horses and set up camp,” I ordered. Despite the distance from forests, timber was not hard to find in Ordos. As we established our camp, scouts were sent out. The ethnic tribes had mostly chosen sides between Han and Wei, so Zhao Chang would soon launch his offensive. We prepared for a decisive battle, resting and gathering intelligence. While ensuring soldiers boiled water and maintained hygiene, I regularly met with our generals and tribal leaders. Today, after a meeting, Ma Dai, my guard, bluntly remarked, “That Xianbei guy, Takbal Yeokmi, seems sinister. His snake-like eyes and constant attention to you are unsettling.” Bu Chuan agreed, “He and Dobbapilgo are always around you, but Takbal Yeokmi feels different.” While the Qiang mostly followed Bang Deok, the Xianbei often gathered around me. Takbal Yeokmi, in particular, seemed to seek my favor. Ma Dai and Bu Chuan, usually not ones to gossip, were unusually critical of him. “There’s something different about him,” Ma Dai said. “Dobbapilgo is showy but respectful, but Takbal Yeokmi feels more insidious.” Even Kang Yu found him suspicious. I decided to consult Bi Yi for a final opinion. However, a more urgent matter arose. “Zhao Chang has entered Shangjun,” Kang Yu reported. Shangjun was one of the nine commanderies of Bingzhou during the Later Han, and Sanyan County, where we were stationed, was part of it. Considering their cavalry-heavy forces, they could arrive quickly. “Notify all commanders and summon them here,” I ordered. As the officers dispersed, I looked at the map of Bingzhou, envisioning the battlefield. The day of the decisive battle was approaching.