Chapters 16- 20 Summary

In Chapter 16, the three Ruan brothers, Bai Sheng, Chao Gai, Wu Yong, Gongsun Sheng, and Liu Tang trick Yang Zhi and his convoy into drinking poisoned wine so they can steal the birthday gifts intended for Liang.

In Chapter 17, Yang Zhi leaves his convey of soldiers and meets up with Sagacious Lu. The two become acquainted then decide to capture Precious Pearl Monastery together. Back at the Eastern Capital, Liang is told that Yang Zhi was responsible for the loss of the birthday gifts. Ho Tao, the police officer in charge of the search, is tattooed with an exile warning in an effort to speed his results. Ho Qing suggests that he might be able to give his brother some information about where the robbers are hiding.

In Chapter 18, Ho Qing gives his brother the identities of the robbers. The police...