Generals of the Great Song Dynasty.

Summary

The chapter explores the pervasive corruption within the Song Dynasty, highlighting the disillusionment felt by Emperor Zhao Zhen as he realizes many officials, including those from esteemed families, have succumbed to greed despite the high salaries intended to uphold integrity. Wang Ning An, a general who opposes civil officials, notes the weak supervision and high income that facilitate corruption. He suggests that the court should assume officials will be corrupt and implement strict regulations to prevent abuse of power. The narrative also presents the case of Zhang Jun, a seemingly virtuous official who exploited loopholes for personal gain, ultimately leading to his downfall and execution. As more corrupt officials are imprisoned, the chapter reflects on the consequences of greed and the harsh realities of their fates, with Han Qi expressing a twisted sense of joy in witnessing the exposure of corruption.

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