Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

The chapter describes a tense situation as a scout lieutenant informs General Yuwen Chengdu that the Turkic Khan's army has retreated northward, signaling potential danger for the Great Sui Emperor. Yuwen Chengdu urgently seeks an audience with the emperor, Yang Guang, who is initially shocked by the news. The general warns that the Turkic forces may be preparing to attack, prompting Yang Guang to order a retreat southward. Meanwhile, in Shanyan County, merchants and residents remain unaware of the looming threat. Liu Xin, a scout, learns that Loufan Pass has been closed by Turkic forces, indicating treachery within the Sui Jun. He organizes his team to spread the news and prepare for evacuation. Panic ensues in Shanyan County as citizens flee, and military leaders, including Qu Tutong, realize the severity of the situation.

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