Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

The chapter describes the aftermath of a new multi-principal system affecting the power dynamics in the Northern Sui court, leading to unrest among officials. In Dong Gong Alley, a beggar chief named Du Hei, known for his ruthless control over beggars, loses all his money gambling and is subsequently kidnapped by men in black. He wakes up in a dark chamber, where he is tortured for information about rumors regarding Minister Du. Under duress, he reveals that a steward from the Zheng residence, specifically Zheng Shanguo's steward, was behind the rumors. Meanwhile, Zheng Shanguo visits Pei Ju to discuss the suicide of his steward, who left a note suggesting betrayal. Pei Ju realizes the implications of this and the potential fallout regarding the Lu Chu matter. In the Zhuque Hall, Zhang Xuan learns that the rumors originated from Zheng Shanguo and decides to demote him to governor of Qichun County as punishment, emphasizing the need for silence regarding the investigation.

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