[The invincible figure from Chu, wielding a quasi-spiritual artifact, proved too powerful even for the Empress who held the Ice Condensation Mirror. The gap between their cultivation levels, as well as their comprehension of martial arts principles, was vast. When the two sides fought, the Empress was forced to retreat, sustaining heavy injuries.]
[The defeat of the Empress greatly dampened the morale of the imperial army, and the rebellious vassals started to counterattack.]
[Meanwhile, the Zhao State, greatly alarmed and angered by Chu State's support for Xia Country, was unwilling to let Chu intervene. So, it formed an alliance with the various vassals of Xia Country to deal a heavy blow to the Zhao state, leading to a rapid deterioration of the situation. As a result, the Zhao State promptly dispatched a large army to attack Chu State.]