Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

Zhao Dan is stunned by Zhang Xuan's warning about the approaching Turkic army. After a quick discussion, they decide to retreat immediately, with Zhao Dan rallying the merchants to pack up and leave. As chaos ensues, Liu Wuzhou confronts Zhang Xuan for retreating without permission, but Zhang Xuan insists on their safety. They manage to flee southward, with some caravans opting to stay with Liu Wuzhou. The next day, exhausted and fearing pursuit, Zhang Xuan senses the Black Horse Bandits are following them. As the bandits close in, he urges the merchants to abandon their goods and seek shelter at Xuan Sha Ling, a sacred site with a history tied to the Turkic people. Upon arrival, Zhang Xuan organizes the merchants to block the entrances with crates, preparing for the impending attack. The Black Horse Bandits, cautious due to the terrain, send scouts before launching an assault. Zhang Xuan rallies the merchants, emphasizing the need for order and discipline. He divides them into teams to defend against the bandits, instilling a sense of unity and purpose among the frightened merchants. As the bandits infiltrate Xuan Sha Ling, the stage is set for a tense confrontation.

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