Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

Lu Yao is overwhelmed with emotion upon seeing the Kashan Xuan Iron, expressing that even touching it fulfills him. He reveals his intention to forge a halberd from it, and Zhang Xuan agrees to let him keep some of the iron in exchange for a knife Lu Yao crafted for his clan. After some negotiation, Lu Yao offers a family knife as a gift, which Zhang Xuan accepts with the condition of a sheath. They part ways with a promise for Zhang Xuan to return in six months for the halberd. Later, Zhang Xuan encounters Luo Cheng's brother-in-law, who brings news of a matchmaking session. Despite his reluctance, Luo Cheng agrees to go home. Zhang Xuan continues his journey, feeling anxious about reaching the city before nightfall. He meets an old man who offers him water and directs him to a shorter path to the county town. As he rides along the mountain path, he discovers a carriage stuck on the road, blocking his way. He assesses the situation and realizes they need to move a large rock to free the carriage, while a young woman inside catches his attention.

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