Li Mu (Ri Boku) stands as a pivotal military and political figure within Zhao. His early career centered on defending Ganmon province against Xiongnu raids. Employing cautious tactics to conserve limited forces, he evacuated villagers behind fortified walls rather than facing invaders directly, drawing criticism from locals like Kaine who perceived it as cowardice. After his temporary replacement led to catastrophic Zhao losses, Li Mu returned to rebuild Ganmon, earning the title "Savior of Ganmon" and forging a lasting bond with Kaine, who became his loyal subordinate. Personally, Li Mu harbors a desire for a peaceful life as a farmer but feels bound by duty to protect Zhao. He labels himself a "dirty coward" due to his willingness to employ ruthless, pragmatic tactics—including surprise attacks, misinformation campaigns, and assassinating enemy commanders—to minimize casualties and ensure victory. Despite facing persecution from Zhao's corrupt court, he maintains unwavering loyalty to the state, refusing rebellion and adhering to principles of non-violence and obedience to the king. Militarily, Li Mu ranks among the era's foremost strategists, emphasizing meticulous preparation, logistics, terrain exploitation, and information manipulation. Key achievements include annihilating 200,000 Xiongnu warriors with 130,000 Zhao troops through tactics described as a "one-sided slaughter," orchestrating the multi-state Coalition Army invasion against Qin upon recognizing Shou Hei Kun's threat, and designing formidable defenses like Zhao's interconnected castle system and the 250-li Great Wall south of Kantan. He also developed "origin tactics," integrating instinctual warfare into traditional strategy. As a combatant, Li Mu demonstrates significant martial prowess despite his strategic focus. His scarred physique reflects frontline experience, engaging in direct combat such as dueling Shin and executing swift assassinations like that of Ma Kou. He inspires profound loyalty in followers like Kaine and Shin Sei Jou, who willingly sacrifice themselves for him, and his speeches effectively bolster troop morale. Politically, he rose to Prime Minister and head of military affairs after the Battle of Bayou. He negotiated alliances, such as with Qin against Yan, and managed relations with groups like the Quanrong tribe. However, his influence waned under distrustful rulers like King Tou Jou. Li Mu's downfall resulted from Qin's covert operations. Spies bribed courtiers, including Guo Kai, to falsely accuse him of treason, leading to his dismissal and replacement. Historical records confirm his subsequent execution or forced suicide in 229 BC under the king's orders. His removal directly precipitated Zhao's swift conquest by Qin, fulfilling his role as the primary obstacle to Qin's unification of China.