Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

In Luo Yang, Minister Zhang Li's residence represents the declining status of the Hanoi Zhang family, which once produced prominent officials but now struggles with internal conflicts and a lack of talented successors. The family estate is modest compared to the grandeur of other families in the capital. During a visit from Lu Zhuo, a high-ranking official from the influential Lu family, Zhang Li learns about the upcoming wedding of Lu Zhuo's daughter to General Zhang Xuan, who has no apparent ties to the Hanoi Zhang family. After the visit, Zhang Li reflects on Zhang Xuan's achievements and wonders about his background. Meanwhile, Lu Zhuo's son-in-law, Zhang Xuan, reveals his intention to take his wife south after the wedding for her safety, as he has many enemies. He clarifies that he is originally from Jing Zhao and has no connections to the Hanoi Zhang family, leaving the Lu family puzzled but relieved.

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