Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

Lu Zhuo leaves the Qi Wang Mansion in a state of disbelief after a sudden visit. He decides to visit Minister Pei Ju, who is eager to maintain his influence and support Lu Zhuo amidst his political troubles. Lu Zhuo reveals that the Qi Wang is angry over his grandson's removal from the examination list and offers two options: feigning illness to resign or accepting a demotion to Jianghuai. Pei Ju hints at a more significant political maneuver involving the Hebei aristocratic group, suggesting that Lu Zhuo's and Cui Huan's transfers are part of a strategy to dismantle their power. Upon returning home, Lu Zhuo learns that his son, Lu Qing Yuan, has come to Zhongdu for a potential court appointment. Lu Zhuo encourages his son to remain in local governance for experience instead of rushing into court politics. Four days later, victorious Sui troops arrive in Zhongdu, greeted by an ecstatic crowd celebrating Qi Wang Zhang Xuan, who feels the weight of the people's hopes for a prosperous future.

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