Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

Zhang Xuan, holding significant military authority, outlined a recruitment plan for fifty thousand troops from six counties in Hebei, focusing on local militias and new recruits. He emphasized a tight timeline for recruitment and training, aiming for completion before the end of February. As the New Year approached, a tense atmosphere enveloped Chang'an, with soldiers patrolling the streets and a lack of festive spirit. Li Qing Ming, newly appointed Deputy Minister of War, arrived in Chang'an to establish an efficient intelligence agency, accompanied by Yang Zhong Lan, his deputy. They visited a tavern that served as the current intelligence point, where they discussed the need for improvement and the acquisition of a larger inn for intelligence operations.

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