A Word

Xu Bai had thought of the worst-case scenario, and that is the formation of a coalition of Southern Great Steppe tribes, would be a nightmare for Yan. 

History had shown that such unification often led to the rise of powerful Khanates, potentially challenging Yan's dominance.

The term "Khanate" harkened back to the days when the Great Steppe was governed by powerful empires, a history that was once rich but now mostly erased from the annals. 

One event in particular, known as the Sacking of Merah Batu, played a crucial role in this erasure.

Merah Batu had been one of the capitals of the Khanate, a symbol of the Great Steppe's political and military power. 

However, Yan forces had razed the city to the ground during a campaign led by a ruthless general. 

They not only annihilated the inhabitants but also burned their books, seeking to sever the roots of Great Steppe civilization.