Generals of the Great Song Dynasty.

Summary

The chapter revolves around the morning court of the Song Dynasty, where high-ranking officials, including Wang An Shi, Si Ma Guang, and Zhang Fang Ping, gather to discuss state affairs and receive the Aoi Tang envoys. Wang An Shi, usually unkempt, makes an effort to clean up and dress properly, exuding confidence. Si Ma Guang and Wang An Shi discuss the letter from the Aoi Tang envoy, Gui Zhang, and agree that it's likely they'll take action against Aoi Tang soon. The officials also discuss the arrival of Di Qing, the Grand Marshal and Imperial Envoy, who is treated with respect and admiration after his heroic actions in the northwest. Wen Yan Bo, the Prime Minister, and Wang Ning An, the Finance Minister, also arrive, with Wang Ning An having recently acquired a courtesy name, Jingping, after becoming Fan Zhongyan's disciple. The chapter also delves into Wang Ning An's past interactions with Fan Zhongyan, who is admired for his righteousness and dedication to the country and people. Wang Ning An seeks to learn from Fan Zhongyan and lead a reform, and Fan Zhongyan grants him the name Jingping, meaning "great peace." The imperial court officials are uneasy about Wang Ning An's new status as Fan Zhongyan's disciple, as it may help him gain support and understanding from the old ministers. The chapter ends with the arrival of Gui Zhang, the ghostly ambassador of the Qingtang, who is summoned into the Grand Celebration Hall to discuss the Qingtang's intentions. The Qingtang's proposal includes forming an alliance with the Great Song to resist the Western Xia, stopping the Great Song's aggressive behavior, and requesting a princess in marriage to strengthen ties. Gui Zhang's confident and cunning demeanor is met with skepticism by the officials, who are unsure of the Qingtang's true intentions.

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