Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

Liang Li rejoices at the return of reinforcements, boosting the Tang army's morale and allowing them to stabilize against the Sui cavalry's assault. General Duan De Cao leads 13,000 men to counterattack, forcing the Sui forces to retreat after suffering significant casualties. Despite the Tang army's losses, Duan De Cao decides to retreat to Shuofang County for safety, knowing they cannot win against the larger Sui forces. Meanwhile, the Sui army, led by Luo Cheng, acknowledges their own losses but understands the importance of military regulations, refraining from reckless pursuit. In Rulin County, General Xi Shi Ling, fearful of the Sui army's impending attack, meets with an envoy, Xu Chun, who offers him a deal from the Prince of Qi: to spare his life and ensure his wealth in exchange for writing to the Emperor to undermine Duan De Cao. Xi Shi Ling contemplates his options, leaning towards a life of luxury away from the battlefield.

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