Generals of the Great Song Dynasty.

Summary

Wen Yan Bo contemplates resigning as Prime Minister due to the daunting task of reducing the number of officials in the Song Dynasty, as ordered by Emperor Zhao Zhen. The emperor expresses the need for reform to streamline the bloated bureaucratic system for the benefit of his young son, Zong Hou. Despite his frustrations, Wen Yan Bo feels compelled to accept the challenge after Zhao Zhen shows trust in him. Wen Yan Bo discusses the complexities of the current official system with fellow ministers, including Wang Ning An and Wang An Shi. They consider restoring the Three Provinces and Six Ministries structure from the Tang Dynasty as a potential solution. The ministers brainstorm ways to consolidate power and reduce inefficiencies, ultimately agreeing on a plan to reclaim authority from various offices under the six ministries. The discussion reveals the chaotic state of the bureaucratic system, with many officials and overlapping responsibilities. They acknowledge the need to address the Privy Council's power while ensuring military effectiveness remains intact. Wang Ning An emphasizes the importance of maintaining strong military leadership amid the reforms.

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