Generals of the Great Song Dynasty.

Summary

Zhao Zhen's poor health led to Empress Cao reading and categorizing memorials, subtly influencing decisions. Empress Cao, intelligent and skilled, maneuvered within her expected role, gradually gaining power as Zhao Zhen's health declined. Despite her conservative tendencies due to her military background, she began to show biases against reformist officials like Wang An Shi. During a conversation, Empress Cao criticized Wang An Shi, which worried Zhao Zhen. Their son, Zhao Shu, expressed his thoughts on Wang's character, noting the need for loyalty in governance. Zhao Zhen, recognizing his son's growing insights, felt both comforted and helpless regarding the political dynamics. As tensions rose against Wang An Shi, Zhao Shu vowed to protect him, aware of the dangers posed by the old faction's criticisms. He was determined to defend Wang An Shi from the backlash, reflecting the shifting allegiances and the complexities of court politics.

Full content