Generals of the Great Song Dynasty.

Summary

Lv Hui Qing and Zhang Dun establish a strict hierarchical system in the Western Regions, reviving outdated practices. They categorize the population into three classes: the privileged Song Ren and Yu Tian Ren at the top, followed by the Gao Chang Ren and Hui Hu Ren, and finally the Karakhanid and Xi Xia Ren at the bottom. The first class enjoys numerous benefits, while the lower classes face heavy taxes and restrictions. Di Yong and Zhao Zong Jing oppose these unfair regulations, but Zhao Zong Jing eventually aligns with Lv Hui Qing and Zhang Dun. The new laws favor the Han and Yu Tian Ren, while Hui Hu Ren must pay substantial taxes. The rulers aim to create a class of landlords and tenants by exploiting the Hui Hu Ren's disadvantages. The chapter discusses the establishment of a social mobility system, allowing lower-class individuals to gain Han status through education or military service. This leads to a surge of individuals claiming Yutian identity for privileges, despite many being impostors. The spies report on the chaos and corruption in the region, prompting concerns from Zhao Zhen, who questions the management of the Western Regions. Wang Ning An suggests that the harsh environment necessitates ruthless tactics for survival, hinting at the rise of banditry and unrest.

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