Generals of the Great Song Dynasty.

Summary

Zhao Zhen addresses the court, emphasizing the need for urgent reform despite opposition from dismissed officials. He acknowledges past mistakes but insists on the necessity of dismissing ineffective officials to strengthen the Song Dynasty against internal and external threats. Feng Jing, a proud scholar who attempted to challenge the Emperor, finds himself publicly humiliated when Sima Guang reveals his lack of political achievements. The court's support for Zhao Zhen’s reforms is evident as officials cheer his actions, highlighting that merit, not connections, should determine one's position. Feng Jing, feeling defeated, is later targeted by disgruntled young royals due to his earlier provocations. He is rescued by the Qiying Society, a group of retired officials, indicating their influence and potential threat to Zhao Zhen's reforms. Wang Ning An suggests eliminating these old officials, but Zhao Zhen opts for a more measured approach, recognizing the importance of reforming the royal family instead. He plans to issue a warning to the Qiying Society, balancing authority with restraint, as he prepares to tackle the challenges of governance and reform.

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