The chapter opens with the sound of a thud. It's the first time we've heard a thud in a long time. We're reminded that we're in the middle of a battle, and that our bodies are lined up against the wall of an enemy's body. We learn that if you don't protect yourself with your sword, you're going to lose your hand. We also learn that you can't raise your sword unless absolutely necessary. This means that you have to hold it in one hand and use the other hand to block the blow. This is called a "lift strike stance" . If the enemy moves, neither do you. If he doesn't, you can strike him with your backhand. This way, you have the advantage of striking the enemy with your right hand. You're not going to be cut off by the blow, but you'll be able to use your left hand to strike the enemy. The chapter ends with a reminder that the battle has been going on for seven days now. The city of Chenliu has been under attack for the past four days, and it's been a total disaster. Ten days ago, the city of Luoyang fell to the enemy, and the traitors took over the city. The only thing that's left is the yellow river, which is the main supply route for the imperial troops. If they can get through the river, they can cut off the supply route to Hebei. They'll need to move out of the city, and they need to get in touch with the troops at Tongguan.