Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

Yun Ding Xing is surprised by the swift arrival of General Zhang Xuan's vanguard, led by Pei Xingyan, who claims to have traveled quickly to assist the king. Li Shi Min questions the timing of their arrival, suspecting Pei Xingyan may have been en route before the distress order was issued. Pei Xingyan insists on scouting the enemy immediately, and he and Li Shi Min set off with cavalry. Meanwhile, Zhang Xuan, leading his troops north, encounters Governor Fang Huan Zhen in Wei County, who informs him that local militias have been recruited to assist the king. Zhang Xuan realizes the implications of local officials raising troops and seeks provisions from Fang. Magistrate Yang Shan Hui offers to guide Zhang through Fuko Pass, despite the tension between him and Fang. Zhang Xuan accepts Yang's help, feeling a sense of responsibility for his past promotions of officials.

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