Li Mingshun was feeling deeply stifled lately. Ever since he led his troops to withdraw from the Imperial Capital, everything seemed to go awry.
Wangdu, Daxi Pass, Shahun, and Bingshuo—four cities—all capitulated to Zhao Yu without much resistance. Now, Zhao Yu controlled nearly two-thirds of the Dahua Empire, his forces powerful and unstoppable.
Although Zhao Jie had taken away the majority of the nobility and bureaucrats from the court, Zhao Yu did not fear them. He promoted a large number of his loyal followers, coupled with the support from Tang Country, giving him a distinct advantage.
The Prince Zhao Yu was now focusing his offensive on Xiqing, causing Li Mingshun to feel tremendous pressure.
While Zhao Ji was indulging in decadence in Caili City, Li Mingshun was fighting hard in Xiqing. The wide disparity between them was becoming increasingly evident.
