Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

As the fourth watch approached, Zhang Xuan and his troops prepared to assault the heavily defended Goguryeo military camp. Despite heightened vigilance and ambushes, they decided on a direct attack. Shen Guang attempted to set a fire but was overruled by Zhang Xuan, who emphasized a head-on charge. As they launched their assault, they faced immediate resistance, with many Sui soldiers falling to enemy arrows. However, Zhang Xuan's fierce charge rallied his men, creating a breach in the palisades. Amidst the chaos, Sui prisoners, led by Yao Chun Sheng, armed themselves with iron bars from a nearby warehouse and joined the fray, overwhelming the Goguryeo forces. The battle turned brutal, with heavy casualties on both sides, but the Sui prisoners finally broke free from their oppression. After the fight, Zhang Xuan was troubled by the losses but was comforted by Cui Hong Sheng, who praised their victory despite the challenges. They discussed their next steps, deciding to regroup at Hancheng to gather supplies and prepare for the next phase of their campaign against Pyongyang. The Sui prisoners marched toward Hancheng, ready for the next battle.

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