Chapter 769 - Yan Liuyuan’s decision (1/2)

Chapter 769 Yan Liuyuan’s decision

In earlier years, Stronghold 176’s reputation was on par with Fortress 178. But over the years, everyone started to only mention Fortress 178 and not Stronghold 176.

There were many reasons for this. On one hand, Stronghold 176’s terrain was not as harsh as Fortress 178’s, and the enemies from the grasslands were not as ferocious either. Therefore, from a “sacrificial” point of view, Stronghold 176 did not really contribute much to the Alliance of Strongholds. After all, there were only so many nomads around, and they were not even armed with firearms and explosives. It would really be difficult for them to become a major threat to the Central Plains, and neither had any particularly bloody clashes taken place between the two sides.

On the other hand, Stronghold 176’s combat power was not strong either. Furthermore, they were getting weaker and weaker with each passing generation. In recent decades, the leadership of Stronghold 176 had turned hereditary, becoming privately helmed by the Shen clan.

Initially, all of Stronghold 176’s resources were provided by the Wang Consortium, the Pyro Company, and the Kong Consortium as a token of gratitude to Stronghold 176 for defending against the northern enemies.

But ever since Stronghold 176 was taken over by the Shen clan, and after everyone realized the threat of the Northern Plains in recent years was only a case of the Shen clan crying wolf, the supply of resources gradually stopped. As Stronghold 176 was built in a place where resources were scarce and being located in between the Kong Consortium, the Pyro Company, and the Wang Consortium, their situation was getting more and more dire over the years.

The past controllers of Stronghold 176 lacked foresight and had no resources. As a result, their light and heavy industries did not develop well. Only their livestock management and farming practices could still be considered passable. As such, they also lost their competitiveness in the Alliance of Strongholds.

Right now, their weapons were very aged, with some people even selling them off to the black market in exchange for money.

This was why Qing Shen said that Stronghold 176 was not good enough.

When the Great Hoodwinker heard Qing Shen’s explanation, he chuckled. “It’s still our Fortress 178 that’s the most prescient. Throughout the years, our commanders have never harbored thoughts about passing on the leadership to their own families. If their children tried to seize power for themselves, they would get sent to the outposts. This is something unique in the entire Alliance of Strongholds. I can only say the commanders of Fortress 178 were worthy of their reputation as pioneers.”

The Great Hoodwinker continued, “Moreover, the enemies Fortress 178 faces are not like the nomadic tribes who don’t even use any firearms or explosives. This is also why we’re called a fortress while they’re only considered a stronghold.”

Qing Shen sized up the Great Hoodwinker with scrutiny. He realized that when the Great Hoodwinker mentioned Fortress 178, that sense of pride and honor was something most Central Plains people did not have.

Luo Lan said, “Actually, the Shen clan was quite conscientious at the beginning. At that time, the military strength of the Alliance of Strongholds was not that great yet. It was still very tough for them when they had to fight the wars initiated by the nomads. Unfortunately, they fell into depravity during Shen Yin’s generation.”

“Is that why you think the nomads will be a threat to Stronghold 176?” Ren Xiaosu looked at Qing Shen. “The premise is that the nomads must be strong enough first,” Qing Shen replied. “After all, a lean camel is still bigger than a horse.”

Seven days later, at the border of the Northern Plains, Yan Liuyuan suddenly reined in his horse and looked south. He said, “Confirm we’re on the right route and direction. Check the supplies, horses, and number of people we have. We might encounter battles every day from now on, so don’t let your guards down.”

Hassan nodded. “Don’t worry, Master. I’ll make sure nothing goes wrong on my side.”

Yan Liuyuan nodded. He felt it was a waste of Hassan’s talent to lead a small tribe like he used to. Ever since Hassan became the Commander-in-Chief of the Right, he quickly started showing his talent in management.

Yan Liuyuan asked again, “Where are the Bulan and Kirghiz tribes?”