Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

As night descended, bandit scouts observed the Sui army's extensive camp near Mengyin Fortress, estimating their numbers to be around ten thousand soldiers. The Sui general, Zhang Xuan, was concerned about potential attacks on the fortress, which was still under repair. He felt frustrated with Pei Ren Ji's failure to send adequate reinforcements, suspecting ulterior motives. Meanwhile, Fang Xuan Ling brought alarming news of the Wa Gang army's advance into Dongping County, raising fears of being left to fend for themselves in Langya County. Zhang Xuan decided to retreat to Dong'an County with a supply convoy, leaving Wei Chi Gong to defend the fortress. Upon returning, Zhang Xuan learned that Pei Ren Ji had sent only three thousand troops led by Qin Yong, confirming his suspicions of Pei Ren Ji's reluctance to commit more forces. The situation was precarious, with Zhang Xuan hoping for clearer directives from the court regarding their military strategy.

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