Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

Wei Xuan's rigorous performance review left the ministers in awe, overshadowing their own questions. After the Emperor Yang Guang departed, the atmosphere lightened, and Zhang Xuan felt immense relief but was still dazed from the experience. He met Pei Ju, who invited him to lunch at the Jishan Tavern, where they discussed the significance of the review. Pei Ju confirmed Zhang Xuan's successful performance, emphasizing his military achievements as key to passing. Although Zhang Xuan hoped to return to Beihai County, Pei Ju informed him he would be assigned to Jianghuai to deal with bandits, with plans for him to command an expanded army. Zhang Xuan expressed disappointment at leaving Beihai, but Pei Ju suggested he could recommend a subordinate to continue his work there. Zhang Xuan proposed Wei Yun Qi for the governorship, but Pei Ju advised a more cautious approach. As they discussed Zhang Xuan's future, Pei Ju considered a marriage proposal to strengthen ties, but Zhang Xuan revealed he was already engaged to Lu Gong's daughter, disappointing Pei Ju.

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