Tian Hu and Tian Zhong reflect that Gu Yao has begun the first step of the plan. They encounter Gao Jianli and Da Tiechui on the road and they cautiously greet each other. Gao Jianli cautions against open battle within the six Peasant Schools halls and warns that outside forces are trying to destroy the Hundred Schools of Thought. The Tians however dismiss the advice and ask them to step aside, supported by the sword of Mister Jin. Gao Jianli reminds Da Tiechui of the secret alliance between the former Xia Kui (for the Peasant School), the Xiang tribe of Chu, and Mohists, and the Azure Dragon plan started by Lord Changping. Only two Hall Leaders of the Peasant School knew of the pact --Zhu Jia of Shennong Hall and Tian Meng (now deceased). The two of them see Gu Yao of the Chiyou Hall pass below their cliff side on a chariot carrying the box with the Stone of Mars and realize that Tian Hu has made his move. Gu Yao's chariot is intercepted by the powerful and armoured Dian Qing of the Shennong Hall. After a fierce, but inconclusive battle, Gu Yao flees, leaving the box. When Liu Bang opens the box, it explodes, and each of the Mohist and Shennong Hall groups realize that it was a decoy and the Stone was taken on another route - a route being watched by Mei Sanniang, as planned by Ah Yan. Also observing these events, General Zhang Han is convinced that someone within the Empire is behind the disturbances - suspicions he had already discussed with the Emperor.
