In this chapter, the eccentric elder Bu Kong remains at the tavern, nonchalantly provoking the corrupt local head constable, Qian Zhong, who eventually leaves in anger to gather reinforcements. Shortly after, the tavern attendants and several hidden bandits—revealed to be responsible for a string of brutal murders while holding the proprietress's family hostage—attempt to eliminate Bu Kong.

Wu Kewen and his guards intervene, engaging in a chaotic brawl with the outlaws. Though the bandit leader fights savagely and nearly overwhelms Wu Kewen, Bu Kong subtly assists, allowing the party to subdue the gang and rescue the captives from the cellar. When Constable Qian returns with a large posse, Wu Kewen defuses the confrontation by leveraging the constable's greed, presenting a bribe under the guise of an affluent traveler to buy their way out of trouble.

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