Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

Pei Ju rushes to Beihai County after receiving an urgent edict from the court due to Li Yuan's uprising. He conveys the emperor's decree to Zhang Xuan, appointing him as the Grand General of the Right Wing Guard and bestowing rewards on him and his family. After the ceremony, Zhang Xuan reveals he has intelligence about a potential military coup in Jiang Du and advises Pei Ju to stay cautious. Pei Ju expresses his gratitude for Zhang Xuan's concern but insists on returning to Jiang Du. The chapter also explores the Pei family's background, their wealth from estates and commerce, and the political dynamics in Bingzhou. Pei Xuan Qi, Pei Ju's son, is conflicted about a marriage proposal for his daughter Zhi Zhi to Zhang Xuan, especially after a previous proposal failed. He desires to marry her off quickly due to her strained relationship with her mother, Lady Wang. However, he learns that the family head has decided Zhi Zhi will marry Zhang Xuan as a secondary wife, leaving him troubled.

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