Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

Zhang Xuan commands an army of 50,000 in Yingchuan County, hindering the Tang forces' northern advance. Du Fuwei's campaign in Xuzhou is threatened by supply issues after Yuwen Huaji's devastation. Li Shimin, pressured by Zhang Xuan's return and Sui cavalry threats, strategically withdraws from Xiangguo County to Yuyang County. Meanwhile, Qu Tutong and Zhai Rang position their troops to create a triangular defense against the Sui. An urgent edict from Emperor Li Yuan prompts a meeting in which Li Shimin learns of the Sui army's surprise attack on Hedong City and Pujin Pass, leading to a call for troop withdrawal to Guanzhong. Qu Tutong expresses concern about the reduced forces facing Zhang Xuan and Wang Shichong, while Li Shimin contemplates the implications of the Sui strategy. After receiving a letter from Zhang Xuan outlining his plans, Li Shimin decides to abandon the eastern campaign and retreat to Guanzhong, prioritizing the larger strategic picture over immediate conflicts. As the Tang army begins its withdrawal, Li Shimin reflects on the necessity of stabilizing internal affairs before addressing external threats, planning future campaigns after regrouping.

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