Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

Huan Shui, a significant river in the Nakahara region, flows through several counties before merging into the Huai River. Recently freed from bandit activity due to Zhang Xuan's victory over Miao Hai Chao, merchant ships resumed navigation on the Tongji Canal. A fleet of five cargo ships from Hong Ji Shipping, managed by the experienced Manager Jiang, encounters bandits at Lu'er Ditch. Despite attempts to negotiate, the bandits, under Miao Hai Chao's orders, seize the ships, forcing Manager Jiang to escape. Meanwhile, in the Sui army's camp, Cavalry Officer Li Qingming reports the bandit attack. Zhang Xuan, suspecting a trap, mobilizes his troops toward Huaming County while deploying scouts to monitor Huan Shui. Two Sui scouts disguised as farmers, having escaped the bandits, are on their way to report their findings.

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