Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

Wei Qing's journey north was troubled by desertions after Jia Wu Ben and his son left the army, with many soldiers unwilling to leave their hometown for Taiyuan. Jia Wu Ben gathered over 4,000 deserters and returned to Qingzhou, where they were welcomed by Zhang Xuan, who emphasized the duty to protect their homeland. Despite the celebratory atmosphere, Zhang Xuan reflected on the historical changes caused by his presence in this era. Meanwhile, Lu Qing contemplated a marriage alliance proposed by her father with the Pei family, recognizing its political significance for Zhang Xuan's ambitions. She also considered the need for her husband to take another wife due to dwindling heirs. Later, Zhang Xuan returned home drunk from a banquet, and Lu Qing took care of him. The next day, Zhang Xuan learned of his father-in-law's new appointment and Lu Qing's agreement to accept a Pei family daughter as a second wife, surprising him.

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