Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

In Chang'an, chaos ensues after the murder of General Li Gao Qian, with the Black Tortoises targeting the Zhou Dynasty's intelligence agency, suspecting them of involvement. A gag order prevents open discussion among citizens, leading to an oppressive atmosphere as soldiers conduct searches, detaining thousands for questioning. Tavern owner Lv Ping, who secretly leads the intelligence agency, receives urgent orders to report on palace coup developments. During a search by Black Tortoise soldiers, he discreetly hides a young man and manages to bribe the sergeant to avoid complications. Later, he meets with Zhao De Zhong, an informant from the Imperial Study, who reveals that the Emperor has fallen ill after a night with Concubine Yin De. Lv Ping deduces that this illness is part of Li Yuanji's scheme to seize the throne. He advises Zhao to inform Li Yuanji to act decisively and time his moves carefully, suggesting he should become regent and then ascend to the throne using the Emperor's condition as a pretext.

Full content