Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

Zhang Xuan is tasked with handling the aftermath in Jiaoxi County after the Sui army's victory. The county is crowded with over 200,000 civilians, who had suffered under bandit soldiers and are now joyful after liberation. Zhang Xuan comforts village elders, who share their hardships, and observes surrendering bandits being escorted to Gaomi County for punishment. Wei Yun Qi suggests Zhang Xuan take the initiative to request staying behind to handle the aftermath, which could help win the hearts of Gaomi County people. Zhang Xuan is surprised but agrees, and soon receives a summons from Commander Zhang Xutuo, who is leaving for Beihai County due to Zuo Xiao You's advance. Zhang Xutuo and Zhang Xuan discuss handling the aftermath, including pacifying the people, restoring production, and sowing winter wheat. Zhang Xutuo expresses concern about explaining the use of grain to the court, and Zhang Xuan assures him he can manage it. Zhang Xutuo then entrusts Zhang Xuan with the aftermath and departs. Zhang Xuan and Wei Yun Qi discuss specifics, with Wei Yun Qi suggesting leaving a share of the seized wealth for the court. Zhang Xuan agrees, understanding the importance of court relationships for promotions and military achievements. Wei Yun Qi presents a plan for grain and coin distribution, and Zhang Xuan approves, acknowledging the need to compromise and maintain local government relations.

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