Ruling the World.

Summary

In the Northern Song Dynasty, Han Gang observes a wedding procession with empty dowry boxes, reflecting on the peculiar marriage customs where the bride's family bears the costs. Wealthy families often provide substantial dowries to ensure their daughters' happiness, while insufficient dowries can lead to severe consequences for the bride. The conversation reveals that marrying into the royal family can be financially beneficial, with dowry prices fluctuating. Han Gang learns about the decline of noble families and the rise of merchants marrying into royalty, highlighting the intertwining of wealth and status. The discussion also touches on the business practices of these families, including money lending, which raises concerns about the implications for societal reforms.

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