Before the first battle between Liangshan and the Zhu Family Manor, Shi Xiu sneaks into the village disguised as a firewood seller. He finds out how to navigate the maze of roads winding among trees outside the manor from an aged villager. That lead helps the force of Song Jiang to get out when they lose their way among the trees in the first offensive. When the Zhus are not completely convinced that Sun Li has come to help them, Shi Xiu seals their trust by pretending to be captured by Sun in a one-on-one combat on horseback. When the Zhus lower their guard, Sun Li and his group attack them from within their ranks, seizing victory for Liangshan.