Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

The chapter describes the tense situation between the Turkic army, led by Shibi Khan Ashina Tuoji, and the Sui army, camped nearby. Shibi Khan, ambitious and strategic, has been planning an alliance with the Sui for two years, seeking to exploit internal conflicts within the Sui dynasty. Meanwhile, Ma Xun Wu, guarding the crucial Loufan Pass with 3,000 troops, receives urgent orders to assist Jingle County, leaving the pass unguarded. This decision allows Kang Qiaoli and his Turkic cavalry, disguised as Sui soldiers, to successfully ambush and capture Loufan Pass. Shibi Khan, upon learning of this victory, prepares to launch an immediate attack on the Sui forces.

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