Ji Feihua's gaze grew somewhat distant. "This treaty bought Great Kang twenty years of peace. If His Majesty had devoted himself to good government and developed the country's internal affairs during those twenty years, Great Kang might have recovered its national strength. Instead, he indulged in boundless extravagance and ruled with cruelty and tyranny. Over these twenty years, Great Kang has not progressed in the slightest. On the contrary, its fortunes have gone from bad to worse."
Hu Xiaotian said, "Great Yong seems to be getting stronger and stronger."
Ji Feihua nodded. "Great Yong's emperor, Xue Shengkang, is a wise and discerning man. For twenty years, he has worked tirelessly to build his country, burying himself in domestic development while securing his rear against foreign threats. He built a great wall between Great Yong and Black Hu, keeping the Black Hu people beyond it. He knows how to recognize talent and put it to good use, gathering outstanding men from across the realm. Yuchi Chong, Great Yong's grand marshal, was once a general of Great Kang. Ostracized in Great Kang's army, he left in anger. After reaching Great Yong, he won Xue Shengkang's deep trust and was entrusted with great responsibilities. With him in its service, Great Yong reversed the course of its war against the Black Hu people. Yuchi Chong repeatedly defeated their fierce cavalry, recaptured seven northern cities, and rebuilt Great Yong's northern defensive line."
Hu Xiaotian thought to himself, That impressive? I ought to meet him if I get the chance.
Ji Feihua continued, "As for domestic affairs, Great Yong's former chancellor, Li Xuangan, possessed the talent to weave heaven and earth together. During his tenure, Great Yong made enormous strides in its internal administration. Its treasury is now full and its people prosperous, all thanks to