The Hutuo rises in the north from Mount Taixi, runs south through Zhending Prefecture, and empties east into t…
The Hutuo rises in the north from Mount Taixi, runs south through Zhending Prefecture, and empties east into the Bohai Sea. Its waters never cease, its course long and far reaching. Throughout the ages, the south bank has always been ground for which armies contend. As for the reason, after surveying the matter again and again, I would put it down to three points:
First, it is the key to the terrain.
The Hutuo cuts across the lands of Yan and Zhao and opens straight into You and Ji. Whoever holds the south bank can drive directly into Heshuo and contend for the Central Plains.
Second, it is a position of natural military advantage.
The Hutuo runs deep and full. In summer, floodwaters spread far and wide. In winter, the river freezes for miles. If one can hold the south bank and wait on the season, then the enemy from the north may be made to fall back without a fight.
Third, it is the artery of grain supply.
The south bank is rich and fertile, planted widely with grain and millet. Supply routes crisscross the region, feeding the three armies. Any force that holds the south bank can choke the flow of grain.
Now north and south are at odds, and the times are uncertain. If the south bank of the Hutuo can once again be firmly secured as a barrier, then the gateway to the Central Plains may be held fast.