Hu Lao Pass, as one of the most precarious passes under heaven, sat between two mountain peaks from where one could overlook the Lingzhou Plain in front and lead an assault into the Lai State Basin in the rear. During times of peace, it served little purpose, but once a war erupted, it became a crucial battleground for military strategists.
And not just because of its treacherous terrain.
More importantly, Hu Lao Pass controlled the Zhanan River, which after traversing through half of Lai State, directly connected to the Tongtian River and served as a vital waterway for transport.
Waging war.
The most crucial aspect was the supply of food and forage.
