Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

Pei Ju returns home late and meets with Zhang Xuan, who has been waiting for him. Zhang Xuan is concerned about not receiving rewards from the court, and Pei Ju explains that the Emperor is stingy with official positions and is currently in a bad mood towards them. Pei Ju reveals that the Emperor is worried about Zhang Xutuo seizing power and has lured him to the capital with high official titles. Pei Ju advises Zhang Xuan to stay in Qingzhou and maintain the status quo, and offers to help him with his rewards. Zhang Xuan asks about Pei Ren Ji's role in Qijun and Pei Ju's intentions, and Pei Ju warns him to be cautious and not rely on Yan Wang for protection. Zhang Xuan leaves, and Pei Ju ponders how to bind him closer to the Pei family, possibly through marriage.

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