If it's a warhorse, then it's even more important, almost as critical as strategic materials. The mere number can fundamentally determine the outcome of a war. It symbolizes strength and identity. Even ordinary horses are like this, let alone fine ones. Left outside, they could make people fight to the death over them!
In *Water Margin*, the war between Zengtou Market and Liangshan was ignited over a fine horse. Hu Yanzhuo even went so far as to fight to the death with Peach Blossom Mountain when his Snow-Treading Dark Steed went missing.
In *Romance of the Three Kingdoms*, Guan Yu was so delighted at being gifted the Red Hare Horse by Cao Cao that he knelt in gratitude, prompting Cao Cao to ask him, "Why debase humans yet value an animal so?" From this, one can see the importance of a fine horse.
