Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

Li Shou Jie addresses a crowd, informing them that the Duke of Qi has sent word about their escape from Jiang Du. With soldiers patrolling the streets and guarded gates, he assures them that arrangements are being made for their departure in half an hour, facilitated by Qing Ming. The crowd, eager to leave, begins to write letters to their families. Li Shou Jie decides against informing Cui Zhao, fearing it would jeopardize their plans. As they prepare to leave, Qing Ming arrives with two officials, Lai Kai and Lai Hong, who are also escaping due to their ties to Zhang Xuan. Yu Shi Nan, another unexpected ally, joins them after receiving a letter from the Grand Commander. Li Qing Ming reveals their escape plan involves taking the water route to the Yangtze River, having bribed officers to facilitate their exit. As they approach the city gate, tensions rise due to strict checks, but with Zhao Yong Cai's reluctant compliance, the three passenger boats carrying the officials are allowed to leave the city, heading toward safety.

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