Eight Years On the Border, The Emperor Demands My Coronation

Emperor Zhao Ding has guarded Youzhou for eight years. On the surface, he pretends to beg for money from the court, but in reality, he uses modern technology to develop agriculture and commerce, and manufacture firearms, turning the barren border city into a prosperous treasure land. When the Emperor secretly investigates and is repeatedly overcharged, he sees through his son's disguise but secretly admires his talent. During this time, Zhao Ding defeats the southern Chen invasion, captures the Northern Liang princess, and the two secretly fall in love. With the heir apparent in the capital still a child and dark currents swirling in the court, the Emperor intends to replace the heir. Pretending that the Empress is critically ill, he issues an edict summoning Zhao back to the capital.