Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

In early November, the first snow of the year blanketed Hebei, marking the onset of winter. Rivers began to freeze, particularly in Youzhou, allowing for sled transport. In Huairong County, a bustling scene unfolded as fleets delivered grain and military supplies, with thousands of sleds arriving for transport. Zhang Xuan, observing the preparations, learned from General Xiao Jin Yong that while the sleds were functional, many drivers were inexperienced with the route, leading to early mishaps. Zhang Xuan interacted with a father-son sled team, unaware they were speaking to the Emperor, which left the old man startled upon realizing his mistake. Afterward, Zhang Xuan visited Zhen Ding Xian, a refuge camp for evacuees from Lou Fan Jun and Tai Yuan Jun, where he found the camp well-organized but underpopulated compared to expectations. Fang Youzhen, the camp's overseer, reported approximately 128,000 residents, far fewer than anticipated. Zhang Xuan expressed concern about accommodating more incoming refugees from Tai Yuan Jun, reflecting on the devastating impact of recent conflicts on the region's population.

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