Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

Li Yuan, adorned in golden armor, rides north with a cavalry escort, feeling emboldened by recent military successes and the acquisition of elite soldiers. His second son, Li Shi Min, joins him, expressing concern for his father's safety. They discuss the arrival of grain from the Wu family, alleviating food shortages for their troops. A messenger from the Pei family arrives with a warning about impending trouble from the Emperor, which Li Shi Min interprets as a sign to prepare for conflict. Tensions rise between father and son as Li Yuan dismisses the urgency to raise troops, leading to a heated confrontation. Meanwhile, Li Shi Min seeks counsel from Pei Ji at Jinyang Palace, hinting at escalating political tensions and preparations for potential rebellion.

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