Generals of the Great Song Dynasty.

Summary

The chapter revolves around the intrigue surrounding the Emperor Zhao Zhen's health and the potential spies within the palace, particularly focusing on Han Jiang's knowledge of the situation. Si Ma Guang and Wang Ning An discuss the possibility that the Han family may have infiltrated the palace, with Wang Ning An suspecting someone is relaying messages to Empress Cao. They consider the Second Prince, Zhao Zong Lin, as a potential messenger, despite his young age and the past animosity between Empress Cao and his mother. As they strategize, Si Ma Guang emphasizes the intelligence of royal offspring, while Wang Ning An expresses skepticism about the Han family's trust in a child. They decide to employ spies to monitor the situation, but Wang Ning An prefers a proactive approach due to the Emperor's declining health. The conversation shifts to the value of bronze, with Wang Ning An revealing plans for developing powerful firearms, which could change the balance of power. He highlights the potential of using bronze coins to create cannons, arguing for a strategy to buy low and profit later. The chapter concludes with Empress Cao reflecting on her feelings for the Second Prince, Zhao Zong Lin, as she prepares to leave the Buddhist hall, drawing a poignant connection to her biological son, Zhao Shu.

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