Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

The chapter describes a cold and desolate tea shed where Zhang Xuan and his cavalrymen stop for refreshments. The shopkeeper informs them about the recent passage of the Emperor's fleet and the struggles of scholars who rushed to take part in the imperial examination, only to face delays and uncertainty. Zhang Xuan learns about the bandit troubles in the Jianghuai region and decides to inform Zhang Xuan about the situation. Meanwhile, Yang Guang's imperial dragon boat arrives near Qiao County, where he contemplates the need for fierce generals to combat banditry in various regions. Minister Pei Ju advises Yang Guang to postpone the selection of new officials due to the hardships faced by the alternates, but Yang Guang insists on proceeding as planned to instill resilience in them.

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