Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

Xin Liao'er, unaware of Luo Cheng, attempts to attack him in a fit of rage but is swiftly defeated when Luo Cheng pierces his throat with a spear. The Sui army then invades Canglong Fortress, capturing soldiers who surrender in fear. Zhang Xuan praises General Duan De Cao's strategy, noting its success due to Xin Liao'er's ignorance. Duan warns that a similar tactic won't work against the cunning Liang Shidu. The Sui army prepares to march on Le County, capturing craftsmen for intelligence. As they set up camp, General Li Jing arrives with additional troops. In a strategic meeting, Duan De Cao outlines Le County's defenses, highlighting its strong walls and abundant grain supplies but lack of pig iron for weapons. The captured soldiers reveal their poor equipment, indicating Liang Shidu's dire situation. Zhao Song, a former official coerced by Liang, offers insights on the city's weaknesses, particularly the wooden gates and rope-operated drawbridges, which could be exploited in their attack. The generals are encouraged by this information, setting the stage for their next move.

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