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And so, the army of the Northern Yuan laid siege to Xizhou—they couldn't breach the city, nor did they wish to retreat. On the other hand, Xizhou had insufficient troops to sortie and battle. Zixuan also had to be cautious about the commander of the Northern Yuan and dared not resort to any more trickery, fearing that any misstep might backfire. After all, the city had abundant supplies, so there was no need to worry about food. Thus, both sides ended up in a stalemate, neither daring to make a move.
But this deadlock was broken on the nineteenth day of the first month. The reason was none other than Prince Qige of the Northern Yuan Dynasty bringing with him an army of a hundred thousand to the outskirts of Xizhou City. Right then and there, Prince Qige ordered a swift assault, declaring that even if it meant filling the trenches with bodies, Xizhou must be taken.
