The Skybreak Mountain range was extensive, stretching over seven to eight-tenths of the Jin State's northern region. Its vast expanse, layered with mountains, did not give an impression of steep, rugged terrain; instead, it presented a sense of spaciousness reminiscent of the East Sea.
After a day's march, under the guidance of Xiong Lie, the army made camp on a flat area in a mountain recess.
Of the three settlements they aimed to subjugate on this expedition, the nearest was a fortified village just over twenty miles away via mountain paths. It housed several thousand people, with an estimated nearly two thousand able-bodied men fit for battle.
In the military tent, Zheng Fan gnawed on a roasted wild chicken leg.
With a large army entering the mountains, those skilled in hunting naturally took the opportunity. Even with sufficient military provisions, indulging in some game was a welcome treat.
