Empire Ascension: The Rise of the Fated One-Chapter 242: Blockade at Zojila Pass

The Tibetan Alliance was formed by the western kingdoms of Tibet and the central Tibetan kingdom to defend against the eastern Tibetan kingdoms, which were closer to the Ming Empire in China.

The western kingdoms, primarily in the Ngari region, included the Guge, Gweya, and Nakchu kingdoms. These three great powers shared strong cultural and familial ties with the Namgyals of Ladakh in India. Because of these connections, they forged a defensive treaty with the Namgyals when the Northern Empire threatened their very existence.

Ladakh, zojilla pass, morning of 28th April 1557

The crisp morning air at Zozilla Pass carried the first rays of sunlight over the snow-capped peaks that glistened like silver on the icy terrain.

’Crunch!’

’Thud!’

The stillness of dawn was broken by the rhythmic thud of hooves dragging war supplies and the crunch of soldiers’ boots on the frozen ground as the 3,000 Guge forces marched into view. Their banners, vibrant against the pale blue sky, swayed gracefully in the morning breeze, heralding the arrival of a disciplined sea of warriors.

At the head of the column, Prince Drepung Zangpo rode a sturdy horse, his elegant armor reflecting his noble stature.

"Reinforcements have arrived!"

"We are saved! Oh great Buddha!"

The Ladakhi soldiers, weary from almost a week of holding the pass, erupted into cheers as the reinforcements appeared. Their leader, Sidkeong Namgyal, son of the deceased first prince, with a weathered face, stepped forward to greet the prince.

Bowing respectfully with wide arms, he said, "Welcome, brother. Your presence strengthens our resolve."

Drepung Zangpo nodded with a calm yet commanding presence. "The alliance stands united," he replied as he returned the hug, his voice steady and firm. "Let’s gather the officials for a brief discussion"

As Drepung dismounted, soldiers lined the route, clapping and cheering. The Guge troops, disciplined yet approachable, returned the greetings with respectful nods and waves.

The energy of camaraderie filled the air as morning campfires flickered, and Ladakhi and Guge soldiers exchanged tea, rations, and laughter.

"You see this glaive? It was passed down to me by my great-grandfather. The shaft is reinforced with dragon bone and infused with yeti’s blood. One slash, and it will send you straight to nirvana."

"Don’t listen to this liar. He only brags. Come, have some tea with us. We also have bread. Give it a try!"

A Ladakhi soldier handed a steaming cup to a Guge archer, who accepted it with a grateful grin, his gaze briefly following his prince as he entered the leaders’ tent.

Inside, the large tent was alive with the flicker of lamps and the chatter of greetings. The table was laden with trays of fruit and wine, while Sidkeong introduced Drepung to the commanders and seated him beside him.

Sidkeong poured the drink and passed it to Drepung . "The journey must have been hard. Let me know if you need anything for comfort. We’ve arranged everything."

Drepung smiled as he accepted the wine. "You are too kind, brother. A true soldier must remain vigilant and not indulge in comfort. Today, we are at your command."

Sidkeong patted his shoulder. "Ah, wise as always." He turned to one of his commanders. "Bring the map. Let’s show him the base."

The subordinate quickly brought the map and unfurled it across the table.

Pointing to the map, Sidkeong began, "On the right side of the pass, we’ve built four stockades (fort-like garrisons), and three on the left. Each is supported by nearby watchtowers. The current route is blocked, and we’ve placed trenches on this routes to support our archers and cannons. All we need to focus on now is holding this point until we hear from the capital."

Drepung studied the map and nodded. "Impressive preparation. I’m surprised you accomplished so much in such little time."

Sidkeong shook his head. "If not for Commander Chewang retreating with the remaining forces in time, we might not have managed this."

Chewang, seated nearby, bowed humbly. "It’s kind praise, Your Highness. I merely did my duty."

Drepung chuckled. "I must admit, I envy you, Brother Sid. You have capable commanders who don’t squabble for credit. Meanwhile, I deal with ragtags fighting over trivial achievements."

Sidkeong laughed heartily, clapping Drepung on the back. "You’re too modest, Drepung . We all know the caliber of your leaders."

The two shared a warm moment of brotherhood before Drepung’s tone grew serious. "How did Kashmir fall so swiftly? It wasn’t supposed to crumble like this."

Sidkeong’s expression darkened, and he thumped the table with a clenched fist. "A traitor betrayed us. Not only did he hand over the kingdom, but he also killed my father.. for a wretched and worthless bitch of an woman."

Drepung placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Forgive me for reopening old wounds. Let’s shift focus. What’s the northern empire’s current stance?"

Sidkeong exhaled deeply before responding, "They’ve assaulted the pass twice and suffered heavy casualties each time. From captured prisoners, we’ve learned they’re awaiting reinforcements, likely to arrive within the week." He hesitated before asking, "What about reinforcements in the capital? Is there any plan to force a ceasefire?"

Drepung swirled his cup filled with wine, a calm smile on his face. "Rest assured, the higher ups has a strategy to not only secure a negotiation but also turn the tide of this war in our favor. As for the capital, half the forces are already in place, and the remainder will arrive soon. We will not let the vanguard of Tibet fall so easily."

Relief softened Sidkeong’s features as he embraced Drepung . "Thank you, brother. Your words bring hope. We will definitely weather this storm together."

Drepung patted his back, though a slight frown creased his forehead. He asked Sidkeong after taking a sip, "What if they discover a hidden pass or another route to attack us from behind while we face the west?"

Sidkeong chuckled, his confidence unwavering. "To do that, they’d have to cross the trade city first. Even if by miracle, they manage to crawl their way through, they’ll be no match for us in mountain warfare."

Drepung’s lips curved into a grin as he raised his cup. "Fair enough," he said, clinking it against Sidkeong’s. Together, they downed their drinks.