In the first year of the Long Era, famine ravages Guanzhong, and the people resort to cannibalism.
That year, the Tang court’s hundred thousand imperial guards have yet to be led into a disastrous campaign by Zhang Jun, who fancies himself a living Zhuge Kongming and wages war from behind a desk.
That year, Han Jian of Huazhou has yet to kill eleven princes within the city walls.
That year, Li Maozhen of Fengxiang and Wang Xingyu of Binning swear a blood oath, determined to seize the lands south of the mountains.
Han Wo: “Though His Majesty is cunning in his dealings, he seems like a sage ruler when it comes to the common people!”
Zhu Quanzhong: “The Tang Emperor is exceptionally clever. My son is no match for him! Why not come with your father and share in the pleasures of the bedchamber...”
Li Keyong: “Your Majesty promised me that princely title. Why has it still not come through?”
Tang Emperor Suzong Li Ye: “All my life, I have walked on thin ice. Tell me, everyone: can I make it to the other side?”
