Generals of the Great Song Dynasty.

Summary

Wang Ning An returned from the Great Wall after five days, devising a strategy to defend it by guarding five key passes. He mobilized 250,000 civilians for preparations, yet kept them in the rear instead of at the passes. Zhang Xiao Jie, fearing for his life after losing contact with local gentry, was humiliated and threatened by Ye Lu Hong Ji, who confiscated his vast wealth due to suspicions of collusion with Wang Ning An. Ye Lu Hong Ji, feeling the pressure of defeat and financial strain, sought to form an alliance with Western Xia through marriage, hoping to unite against the Song dynasty. He attempted to rally the Khitan nobles to prepare for winter survival but faced resistance, as many preferred trade over warfare. Frustrated, Ye Lu Hong Ji resolved to mobilize a large force of 250,000 cavalry to attack, believing Wang Ning An's arrogance would lead to his downfall.

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