Faced with these sudden, dual crises that loomed like Mount Tai, Su Ran knew that time was life. There was no room for hesitation or doubt; he had to make bold, wise decisions with the greatest possible speed.
**Strategies for the Border Conflict**
Su Ran first focused his sharp gaze on the raging fires of war at the northern border. He issued urgent directives for nearby garrisons to rush to the besieged town like a gale, infusing the precarious settlement with much-needed strength. Simultaneously, he decreed that the craftsmen and soldiers building fortresses were to lay down their tools, take up weapons, and join the defensive battle. He also decisively ordered his elite cavalry units to abandon their current, arduous training and race to the battlefield, intending to strike the enemy’s flanks like a tiger and disrupt their orderly offensive rhythm.
With a solemn expression and burning eyes, Su Ran issued a firm, uncompromising order to his commanding officers: "You must hold this town to the death! Spare no cost in repelling the enemy! I will soon dispatch a vast army to support you. Anyone who dares to retreat or delay our tactical advantage will be dealt with by military law, without exception!" Upon hearing this, a surge of intense fighting spirit rose in the generals; their morale bolstered, they swore that they would protect the town and drive back the invaders, even at the cost of their own lives.
Chapter 123