Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

In the chapter, Chen Meng leads two thousand troops to block the northeastern exit of the marshlands, engaging in fierce combat with Jianghuai soldiers. As the battle intensifies, seven thousand Jianghuai soldiers attempt to break free, but they are met with a cavalry charge led by Pei Xingyan, resulting in a bloody massacre. Three days later, Zhang Xuan inspects the newly constructed Sui army camp, ensuring its defenses against potential water attacks. He expresses concerns about the lack of stockades around the water fortress, prompting immediate action to fortify it. Meanwhile, Du Fuwei's army, despite being outnumbered and poorly equipped, retreats into Hefei City, a stronghold with formidable defenses. Chen Baoxiang advises targeting the Sui army's logistics, but Du Fuwei doubts the feasibility of cutting off their supplies. Fu Gongyou suggests seeking assistance from Lin Shi Qu, emphasizing the urgency of collaboration against the Sui army. Du Fuwei decides to pursue this option, sending swift horses out of Hefei City to seek help.

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