Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

Zhang Xuan and his 2,500 soldiers arrived at Mingtang Mountain after two days of rapid marching. They set up camp in a secluded valley and awaited news from Zhang Xutuo. During a strategy meeting, Zhang Xuan discussed the positions of enemy forces and the importance of Dungou Mountain, noting Zuo Xiao You's strategic blunder in confronting the Sui army. A messenger arrived with orders from Zhang Xutuo, emphasizing the need to minimize killing and to act as a surprise force against the bandits. Zuo Xiao You, stationed at Wadangkou, was in urgent need of provisions for his army of 50,000 and had set up defenses against the Sui army. However, Zhang Xuan's troops lay in ambush near the grain convoy, which was unaware of the impending attack. When the convoy appeared, Zhang Xuan commanded an assault, leading to chaos and heavy casualties among the guarding soldiers. As the Sui army surged forward, they effectively cut off escape routes for the bandit soldiers. A distress call from the outpost was met with a counter-ambush by Zhang Xuan's cavalry, further decimating the bandit forces. After securing the grain convoy, Zhang Xuan prepared to pursue Zuo Xiao You's retreating forces, planning to capture his stronghold at Dog Squatting Mountain.

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