Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

Duan Xuan De is brought into a military tent where he faces Zuo Xiao You, his former leader, after surrendering to Zhang Xuan. Zuo Xiao You is skeptical about the surrender and questions the intentions behind Zhang Xuan's letter, which Duan Xuan De presents. Despite his initial resistance, Zuo Xiao You learns that the families of his generals are in the hands of the Sui army, leading him to consider surrendering. After a discussion with his generals, he decides to surrender under specific conditions regarding his rank and property. Subsequently, Zuo Xiao You surrenders along with his troops, marking the end of several bandit factions in the region. Meanwhile, Zhang Xu Tuo receives news of victory and discusses military strategies with Zhang Xuan, who proposes expanding the army and stationing troops in various counties to prevent future banditry. Zhang Xu Tuo agrees to the expansion and plans to station troops, but he remains unaware of Zhang Xuan's deeper political ambitions. As the generals gather to discuss troop assignments, Zhang Xuan is appointed to manage Donglai County, which he accepts. Zhang Xu Tuo expresses his struggles with court politics and asks for Zhang Xuan's assistance in navigating these challenges, highlighting the burdens of leadership and the need for recognition among the generals.

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