Three days after the battle, the valley was gradually returning to a tense calm. Su Jin's forces were busy clearing the battlefield, burying their fallen comrades, and preparing for the next fight. Though they had won a hard-fought victory, Su Jin knew it was only a temporary reprieve. The enemy's main army was still on the move, and the war was far from over.
Inside the command tent, Su Jin, Gu Tingfeng, and the other commanders gathered around the map, deep in discussion. Each of them bore signs of exhaustion, but they understood that the situation left no room for rest.
"The enemy's main force will return soon, and they won't tolerate our presence here," Gu Tingfeng said in a low voice, his eyes fixed on the map. His finger traced the path of a river, clearly thinking of the next strategic position.
"Worse still, we're facing supply issues," another general in charge of logistics added, his voice filled with concern. "Our supply lines are overstretched, and the enemy's raiding parties are harassing our convoys."
Su Jin's gaze remained fixed on the map, her brow furrowing in thought. She knew that the next battle wasn't the only problem; their supply situation was growing critical. Without enough provisions and reinforcements, they would soon be at a disadvantage.
"We must act immediately," Su Jin said calmly, her voice cutting through the tension. "First, reorganize the supply lines and ensure every route is protected. Second, we can't stay here. We need to advance and find a stronger strategic position."
Her eyes swept over the gathered commanders. "The enemy's main force is still regrouping. If we can seize a key location before they do, we can greatly diminish their advantage."
The commanders nodded in agreement. They all understood that Su Jin's decisions were crucial. Although they were outnumbered, if they could maintain the initiative, there was still hope for victory.
As the group discussed their next move, hurried footsteps approached from outside the tent. A scout entered quickly, his expression tense.
"Your Highness, we've spotted a new enemy force to the southeast. About two thousand strong, moving quickly toward us. It looks like they intend to cut off our retreat."
Su Jin's expression shifted slightly. Though she had anticipated the enemy would not give up easily, this new development posed a serious threat. She quickly located the enemy's position on the map, her eyes narrowing in thought.
"It seems the enemy isn't giving us much time to rest," Gu Tingfeng muttered.
"They're trying to take advantage of our exhaustion and supply issues, hoping to launch a surprise attack," Su Jin said softly. "But they've underestimated us."
Su Jin made her decision swiftly. "We can't let this force succeed. Gu Tingfeng, take a portion of our elite troops and intercept them. Delay their advance and buy us more time to prepare."
Gu Tingfeng nodded without hesitation. "Understood. I'll leave immediately."
"The rest of the army will fortify the camp and prepare for the main force's arrival," Su Jin continued. "We must keep the upper hand and avoid being caught off guard."
In a matter of moments, Su Jin's forces were once again in motion. Though still recovering from the previous battle, they understood the urgency of the situation. They needed to fend off this new threat while also bracing for the larger enemy force looming on the horizon.
Night fell, casting a shadow of tension over the camp. Su Jin stood on a high ridge, her eyes scanning the distant horizon. She knew the enemy was closing in faster than expected. She would need to seize every opportunity to maintain control of the situation.
By this time, Gu Tingfeng and his detachment were already on the move, making their way toward the southeast. Their mission was clear: intercept the enemy before they could close in and trap Su Jin's forces.
"Your Highness," Gu Tingfeng said as he approached Su Jin before his departure, his tone resolute. "I'll make sure they don't break through."
Su Jin nodded. "Be careful. This new force appeared too suddenly. There could be more at play here."
Gu Tingfeng hesitated for a moment, meeting Su Jin's gaze. "I'll be cautious. You can count on me."
As Gu Tingfeng and his troops marched into the night, Su Jin returned to her tent, her mind focused on perfecting the next phase of the plan. Her fingers traced the map, marking key positions and contemplating the upcoming battles. She knew their time was limited, and every decision had to be flawless.
Outside, the wind picked up, and the soldiers continued their preparations for the impending conflict. The atmosphere in the camp was thick with tension, as everyone awaited the coming storm. Despite the pressure, Su Jin remained composed. No matter what the enemy threw at them, she would be ready to counter it.