Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

The chapter describes the chaotic retreat of Dou Jiande's 25,000 troops as they abandon their city, pursued by 20,000 Sui soldiers led by Zhang Xuan and Pei Xingyan. The bandits scatter in panic as Sui cavalry close in, resulting in heavy casualties and mass surrenders. Dou Jiande manages to escape with a few loyal guards and seeks refuge across the Yellow River at Fan County, where he seizes ferries to cross. A Sui cavalryman delivers a message from Zhang Xuan, warning Dou Jiande of consequences if he harms innocents. Meanwhile, in Zhuojun, Guo Xuan contemplates Zhang Xuan's request for military assistance against Gao Shi Da and Dou Jiande, expressing concerns about potential collusion between Zhang Xuan and Luo Yi, both connected to the Lu family. Guo Xuan's advisor, Yao Kai, reassures him that Zhang Xuan is unlikely to conspire with Luo Yi, emphasizing the political implications of their shared family ties.

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