After putting down the Rebellion of the Seven States, Emperor Jing of Han (played by Jiao Huang) turns to the problem of the kingdoms, curbing the feudal lords to strengthen central authority. A capable ruler, Emperor Jing follows the Huang-Lao principle of governing through nonaction. Yet the newly stabilized Western Han dynasty faces a powerful Xiongnu invasion and has no choice but to endure humiliation and secure its borders through marriage alliances. After Emperor Jing's death, the young Liu Che, Emperor Wu of Han, is elevated to the throne through the careful schemes of his politically astute mother, Empress Dowager Wang, who wins others over to her side. As soon as he ascends the throne, Emperor Wu displays a vision and intelligence unlike those of previous rulers. He encourages open discussion, seeks out worthy ministers, and implements reforms.
