The Cold Door Hero

Summary

In a teahouse, Li Yan Qing discusses the upcoming imperial examination with Chen Dong and Lei Guan. Chen Dong expresses his intention to wait three years, but Li Yan Qing urges him to participate for experience. The conversation shifts to rumors about a military supply shortage for the Northern Expedition, revealing a divided court on the issue. Li Yan Qing hopes to rally support from the Taixue against the Northern Expedition, but Chen Dong points out that they need approval from the Guozijian to mobilize the students, which complicates their plans. After leaving, Li Yan Qing encounters Qin Gui, who suggests that Yu Shen, aligned with Minister Cai, might be a better ally than Chen Dong. Over the next few days, public sentiment against the Northern Expedition grows, leading to pressure on Fan Zhi Xu from the emperor regarding a leaked inspection report. Li Yan Qing investigates the leak and suspects it may involve Qin Gui, but Fan Zhi Xu defends him. The arrival of Tong Guan in the capital and the emperor's plans to appoint Zhao Kai as Grand Marshal heighten the urgency to oppose the Northern Expedition.

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