North of Birchwood City lies the natural barrier of the Hei River, a vital military stronghold downstream, serving as a "bridge" for the Song Army's entry into Jizhou. If the Song Army wishes to advance into Jizhou by land, taking Birchwood City is imperative for subsequent reinforcements to pour into Jizhou unstoppably.
Otherwise, they would have to rely on river routes to cross the river into Jizhou. However, if Jizhou defends its banks with archers, the Song Army would find it impossible to disembark, making Birchwood City a place of inevitable military contention.
After instructing Ma Yuanyi, Zhang Jiao ordered his subordinates, "The Song Army comes with ferocious momentum. Although the commander is not Prince Zhen Nan, it is the Princess who has held Hulao Pass for over a decade. She has fought countless battles with few defeats, boasting battlefield experience surpassing even that of Prince Zhen Nan, and should not be underestimated.
