There are two mountain paths leading from Ningyuan to Tashan—one to the east and one to the west. Both were guarded by ambushes. Hooge personally led five thousand cavalry to set an ambush on the western path, while Mandahai lay in wait on the eastern path. After routing two waves of Ming Army cavalry in succession, Hooge’s spirits were high. In his view, the Ming Army would certainly not accept defeat and would eventually regroup to launch a counterattack.
"Fall back three li and find a new spot to hide. Keep your spirits up; the Ming Army could return at any moment!" Hooge commanded.
"Don't worry, Prince, we aren't going to sleep!" the Eight Banners soldiers replied excitedly.
Chapter 817