Changping of the War

The series is set in the third-century BC China during the Warring States period, focusing on the events surrounding the Battle of Changping (262–260 BC) between the states of Qin and Zhao. Lin Xiangru becomes the chancellor of Zhao after his diplomatic successes with the return of the heshibi to Zhao and at the Qin–Zhao summit at Mianchi. He manages to buy time for Zhao to recover after its earlier defeats by Qin, while the Zhao general Zhao She also repels a Qin invasion at the Battle of Eyu (270–269 BC).

In Qin, King Zhaoxiang takes over the reins of power from his uncle Wei Ran, removes him as regent, and appoints Fan Ju as chancellor. Qin forces attack Zhao but encounter resistance from Zhao defenders led by Lian Po. Through bribery of a corrupt Zhao official, Fan Ju makes King Xiaocheng of Zhao doubt Lian Po and replace him with the smooth-talking but inexperienced Zhao Kuo. The Zhao forces under Zhao Kuo's leadership suffer a disastrous defeat at the hands of Qin forces led by Bai Qi during the Battle of Changping.

After the battle, under Lin Xiangru's direction, Zhao initiates peace talks with Qin. King Zhaoxiang orders Bai Qi, who is on the brink of conquering Zhao for Qin, to pull back and return to Qin. Bai Qi, who feels resentful, eventually loses King Zhaoxiang's trust and is forced to commit suicide. Qin invades Zhao again later but is forced to retreat at the Battle of Handan (259–257) when Wei and Chu come to Zhao's aid. Despite Zhao's success, Lin Xiangru foresees the eventual fall of Zhao in 228 BC.