The Cold Door Hero

Summary

Li Yan Qing reflects on a letter revealing that Qin Gui has taken action against him, likely at the behest of Cai Jing. Sensing danger, he decides to return to the capital. As he travels, he encounters a vendor and a merchant caravan crossing the frozen Yellow River. He meets Zhang Jiu, a man from Youzhou, who is transporting tallow. They discuss the tense political situation, including Liao's conflicts with the Jurchens and Xixia, revealing that the Liao army is weakened and facing significant challenges. Li Yan Qing expresses interest in these events, as they may be relevant for his upcoming imperial examination. Zhang Jiu shares news about the Liao envoy's failed appeal for military aid from Xixia and the precarious state of Liao's forces.

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