Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

Meng Dan Gui observes the aftermath of a burned floating bridge and anticipates hidden enemy troops. He orders the construction of a temporary bridge to control Xia Pi County, aware of his brother's battle nearby. Reports reveal the Sui army is just ten miles away on the same bank. In a panic, Meng Dan Gui halts bridge construction and assembles his troops for battle. The Sui army, led by Zhang Xuan, prepares to confront the bandits, who lack formation and include civilians among their ranks. Zhang Xuan recognizes the bandits' strategy, which involves using the elderly and women as shields. As the Sui army prepares to attack, heavy rain begins, disrupting the bandits' plans. The Sui army's crossbowmen are rendered ineffective, but Zhang Xuan commands a flanking maneuver. The chaos among the bandits escalates, leading to their disarray and eventual defeat. Meng Dan Gui's forces suffer heavy casualties, and he narrowly escapes with a few men. Meanwhile, Zhang Xuan receives a message from General Yang, urging him to attack Pengcheng County and hinting at the Emperor's potential foresight regarding Meng Hai Gong's rebellion.

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