Map of the Kingdom's Warfare.

Summary

In the Sui army's central command tent, Fang Xuan Ling informs Commander Zhang Xuan about the assassination of Du Gu, a wealthy Guanlong noble, allegedly by the Xuanwu Fire Phoenix under Li Shi Min's command. Zhang Xuan speculates on Li Yuan's motives, believing it relates to consolidating power and addressing financial issues by targeting the Guanlong nobles. They discuss the potential impact of this assassination on loyalty among the nobles. A scout leader then reports capturing Turkic spies with maps indicating plans to build a dam on the Hutu River, suggesting a strategy to facilitate a cavalry invasion into Yanmen County. Zhang Xuan recognizes the impending threat of battle. Shortly after, General Pei reports a disturbing sight: the Fen River has turned red with blood due to the slaughter of livestock, indicating the Turkic army's preparations to retreat north. Zhang Xuan orders all high-ranking generals to convene in the command tent.

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