Ri Boku, also known as Li Mu, is a prominent military and political figure from Zhao during the Warring States period. Profound loss marked his early life when warfare claimed half his family. Consumed by rage, he led his 1,000-man unit on a reckless charge against an enemy camp, spearing the opposing commander but emerging as the sole survivor. This tragedy forged his deep value for subordinate lives and rejection of impulsive tactics. Fleeing enemy soldiers afterward, he encountered the enigmatic warrior Hou Ken, who spared him with a cryptic statement about Ri Boku's destined role. This prompted Ri Boku to investigate the Bushin tribe's spiritual practices, though he remained an outsider. Later, as a general defending northern Zhao's Ganmon province against Xiongnu raids, he implemented evacuation strategies for villagers and livestock. He reasoned that Ganmon's open terrain favored Xiongnu cavalry and Zhao lacked troops for head-on battles. This drew criticism from locals like Kaine, who sought vengeance for her family. After striking her unconscious to prevent a suicidal attack, false accusations of negligence led to his recall to the Zhao capital. His replacement's aggressive tactics devastated Ganmon. Upon his return, he rebuilt its defenses and eventually eradicated the Xiongnu raiders, securing Kaine's loyalty. Ri Boku's personality blends humility and ruthlessness. He professes no desire for fame or power, expressing a wish to retire to the countryside, raise sheep, and live peacefully with a family. He views his political appointments, including becoming prime minister, as burdensome responsibilities. In warfare, however, he employs pragmatic and often underhanded methods, describing himself as a "coward" who prioritizes victory through meticulous schemes. This includes deception, misinformation, and pre-battle preparations to create overwhelming advantages. He justifies this by citing his traumatic past failures and belief that traditional "honorable" tactics cause unnecessary loss. Subtle arrogance surfaces as he confidently asserts superiority over rivals like Qin's generals and occasionally mocks opponents like Shin for perceived naivety. His military abilities are exceptional. He possesses near-peak leadership and unmatched intelligence, complemented by considerable physical prowess. A master strategist, he emphasizes logistics, terrain, and psychological manipulation, often repositioning headquarters or troops to destabilize enemies pre-combat. Key victories include orchestrating the deaths of legendary generals Ou Ki and Geki Shin by exploiting weaknesses, annihilating 200,000 Northern Horsemen tribesmen with minimal losses, and nearly destroying Kan Ki's army through encirclement. During the Coalition Invasion, he secretly redirected troops to assault Qin's capital via the southern path, showcasing long-term contingency planning. He is also a formidable combatant, wielding a sword with lethal precision—evidenced by assassinating enemy officers like Ma Kou and holding his own against skilled warriors like Shin. Ri Boku masterminded the Zhao campaign at Bayou, resulting in Ou Ki's death. After becoming prime minister, he visited Qin under Ryo Fui's threat, displaying unwavering composure. Recognizing Qin's expansionist threat post-Sanyou, he formed the six-state Coalition Army to besiege Qin. When the Coalition faltered at Kankoku Pass, he led a separate force to besiege Sai for seven days, retreating only upon Yo Tan Wa's arrival. Following the Coalition's failure, King Tou Jou stripped him of his title and exiled him to Domei, where he performed manual labor while planning Zhao's defense. He later participated in strategic meetings addressing Qin's power and oversaw conflicts like the Zhao Crisis Arc and Hango Campaign. Historically, Qin bribed the Zhao court to accuse him of treason, leading to his execution—either by beheading or forced suicide—despite his undefeated military record. Before this, he declared his intention to marry his loyal subordinate Kaine.