Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

Large-scale rebellions began in the seventh year of the Great Industry, marked by violence from bandits like Wang Bao and Zhang Jin Cheng. As the uprisings progressed, some bandits, including Meng Hai Gong, shifted tactics to exploit labor and collect taxes instead of outright plundering. Meng Hai Gong, having gained control over Xu Zhou's granaries, managed to stabilize the region. In Pengcheng, the atmosphere was tense, with soldiers patrolling and strict inspections at the gates. A merchant caravan, actually spies for the Sui army led by Shen Guang, successfully entered the city after bribing an officer. They planned to gather intelligence and support from the influential Liu family, a wealthy clan with historical ties to the Han royal family. Shen Guang approached the Liu residence, cleverly using a visiting card to conceal his true identity. Upon meeting Liu Sheng Gong, he presented a letter from his general and sought assistance in gathering intelligence on Meng Hai Gong, which Liu Sheng Gong agreed to provide, relieved that the request was manageable.

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