The Cold Door Hero

Summary

Du Chong is approached by Chen Ran, who represents Marshal Wan Yan Xie Ye, to discuss a potential cooperation. The Marshal offers to withdraw Jin soldiers from Kaifeng if Du Chong agrees to transfer General Zong Ze away from Bianliang and provide intelligence on the righteous armies in Hebei. Du Chong is initially skeptical but is shown a letter from governors in Hebei expressing their loyalty to the Song Dynasty, which piques his interest. He ultimately decides to try and protect Kaifeng while recommending Zong Ze for a new position. Meanwhile, the court in Lin'an is divided into factions debating how to respond to the Jin's military advances. While some advocate for negotiation, others push for military resistance. They reach a consensus to hold commanders Yao Gu and Li Gang accountable for recent failures. Emperor Zhao Gou decides to trust Du Chong's recommendation to have Zong Ze reassigned to Shandong while appointing Du Chong to guard Bianliang. In Taiyuan, which has been under Jin occupation, the Jin forces mobilize for an offensive. The tavern keeper Guan Lin, running an intelligence operation, receives news about the Jin troops' weakened presence in Taiyuan. He quickly sends this intelligence to Yan An, highlighting the vulnerability of the Jin forces.

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