The Cold Door Hero

Summary

The chapter describes a tense situation in the Song dynasty as the Jin army spreads propaganda leaflets in the capital. In response, 10,000 Song troops are dispatched to confiscate the leaflets and bolster defenses. Li Yan Qing, the Supreme Commander, discusses the implications of the Jin's propaganda with his advisor Liu Qi, recognizing it as a sign of the Jin army's weakening position. However, news arrives that the Emperor has ordered Ma Zheng to negotiate with the Jin, following a petition from pro-peace officials. Li Yan Qing is alarmed by this development, especially as Ma Zheng has left the city without his consent, violating military orders. He confronts General Dong Ping, who allowed Ma Zheng to exit under the Emperor's authority, leading to a tense exchange that highlights the growing divide between military and royal commands. Meanwhile, Ma Zheng arrives at the Jin camp to initiate negotiations, where Jin leader Wan Yan Xie chooses to delay the meeting, aiming to assert control over the proceedings while capitalizing on the Song's desperation for peace.

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