Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

Zhang Xuan led 1,700 soldiers to Luo Yang, incorporating over 800 archers from the Youzhou army into his Sixteenth Battalion, which now had a manpower quota of 2,000. The journey was fraught with concern over loyalty and supply lines, as a military purge loomed. Traveling south along the Yongji Canal, they were aided by grain ships gifted by Guo Xuan. Lu Qing Yuan warned Zhang Xuan about the bandit leader Zhang Jin Cheng, who posed a significant threat. Wei Chi Gong, an old acquaintance, confirmed the danger, prompting Zhang Xuan to gather his commanders. They devised a plan to retreat into Qinghe County for safety and seek assistance from Zhang Xu Tuo. Upon entering the county, Zhang Xuan encountered Magistrate Wang, who was apprehensive about the army's presence. Zhang Xuan assured him they would only stay for one night while preparing for potential bandit attacks.

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