Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

Zhang Xuan's disdain for Pei Ren Ji is evident as he recognizes Pei Ren Ji's ulterior motives behind his generous grain offerings. Pei Ren Ji attempts to leverage his unauthorized troop movements to manipulate Zhang Xuan into compliance regarding the attack on Langya County. Despite Zhang Xuan's dissatisfaction, he plays along, requesting five hundred heavy armored infantry for protection against potential enemy breakthroughs. Pei Ren Ji, unwilling to part with these elite troops, tries to reassure Zhang Xuan but ultimately faces delays as Zhang Xuan continues to stall under various pretexts. Frustrated, Pei Ren Ji cannot force Zhang Xuan to march due to the latter's independent status. The arrival of Military Supervisor Xiao Huai Jing adds pressure, as he questions Pei Ren Ji about the lack of troop mobilization, reminding him of the emperor's deadline to eliminate the bandits. After a heated exchange, Pei Ren Ji realizes he must make concessions and eventually agrees to give Zhang Xuan the heavy infantry, hoping this will prompt him to lead the assault. Three days later, Zhang Xuan finally mobilizes his troops for the attack on Langya County, with Pei Ren Ji sending additional forces to support him.

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