Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

Zhang Xuan, the Northern Sui's Qi Wang, inspects Donghai County with Deputy Minister Zhou Wen Sheng to assess the disaster situation due to refugee crisis in Xuzhou. They are joined by a civil official, previously from Qingzhou army, now appointed as Assistant of Qi County. This official has been dispatched to oversee refugee resettlement. Zhang Xuan informs them that Yu Wen Hua Ji sent troops to invade Donghai County for grain but were annihilated by ambushing cavalry. He reassures Xu Yan Nian, Donghai County's prefect, that Yu Wen Hua Ji won't risk attacking unless necessary, as his forces have been scared off. Zhang Xuan has dispatched troops to prevent further risks. The group discusses disaster relief grain supply. The current supply, based on the seventh tier, should last about a month and a half. Zhang Xuan inquires about using wild peas as temporary disaster relief grain, which the official confirms, although 30% of refugees are unaccustomed to it. Zhang Xuan instructs Zhou Wen Sheng to investigate and improve the system, considering their own capacity while assisting the refugees. Zhang Xuan then invites the official to accompany him to Jiang Du, implying a mission related to Jianghuai. Suddenly, a commotion arises as soldiers escort defeated enemy soldiers towards them, followed by angry refugees. Zhang Xuan orders their execution and hanging of their heads as a warning. Later, Pei Xingyan arrives with a cavalry unit, reporting on Yu Wen Hua Ji's situation. Zhang Xuan decides to change his plan, setting aside Jiang Du and concentrating forces to respond to Nakahara's changes. He stations troops in Dapi County, preparing to attack Yu Wen Hua Ji and seize Xuzhou and Eastern Nakahara after eliminating Du Fuwei's army. Outside the tent, Yu Wen Zhi Ji, a prisoner, waits for his fate. Zhang Xuan approaches him, and Yu Wen Zhi Ji asks for a quick death. Zhang Xuan gives him a cup of poison in exchange for information about Yu Wen Hua Ji's escape route and wealth. Yu Wen Zhi Ji reveals the location of Poplar Manor before drinking the poison and dying. Zhang Xuan orders his head to be displayed as a warning and ensures refugees will soon be able to return home. The story continues with Zhang Xuan receiving news about the Lu family being captured by Wang Shichong while trying to escape from Luo Yang. Zhang Xuan writes a letter demanding Zhongdu protect the Lu family from harm.

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