Generals of the Great Song Dynasty.

Summary

Han Jiang realizes the urgency of protecting Empress Cao and decides to launch a campaign of impeachment against her to deter Zhao Zhen from taking drastic actions. Despite his reluctance for scheming, he feels compelled to act due to the ruthlessness of Wang Ning An, who has gained significant power. The old senior advises against reckless competition with Wang Ning An, emphasizing the need for negotiation rather than conflict. Meanwhile, Sima Guang visits Wang Ning An to express confusion over Han Jiang's sudden opposition. Wang Ning An discovers that the conflict may stem from financial reforms, particularly the push for currency reform that threatens the interests of the wealthy gentry, including the Han family. The gentry hoard copper coins and are resistant to change, fearing loss of their economic power. As tensions rise, Sima Guang warns that the public is becoming restless, demanding a share of the wealth accumulated by the noble families. Wang Ning An realizes the complexity of the situation, acknowledging that the introduction of gold coins for large transactions could lead to a significant shift in wealth and power dynamics, ultimately understanding the implications of the prophecy regarding gold.

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