Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

The chapter discusses the aftermath of the Sui army's victory and the ongoing public discourse in Zhongdu about the potential relocation of the capital back to Luo Yang. Despite the initial joy of reclaiming Luo Yang, concerns about the economic impact on Zhongdu residents dominate conversations, particularly among merchants who fear a drop in property values. A merchant shares grim news about the current state of Luo Yang, highlighting its decline and lack of resources. The crowd debates the necessity of moving the capital, with some suggesting that the current emperor's lineage does not warrant a return to the former capital. Su Hong Fu, a respected figure, reassures patrons at the Sanyuan Tavern that a relocation is unlikely in the near future. Meanwhile, Zhang Xuan, now residing in the newly constructed Heavenly Pavilion, discusses the capital relocation topic with his military aide, Du Ruohui, revealing his uncertainty about the future but expressing a preference for Zhongdu over Luo Yang.

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