The defection of Zhang Cuo from the Jade Serpent Hall to Zhao Guangyi's camp is a ruse. The true purpose is no…
The defection of Zhang Cuo from the Jade Serpent Hall to Zhao Guangyi's camp is a ruse. The true purpose is not a schism, but a calculated distribution of power. Yet, the River Master understands the machinations of the street, not the court. Such a strategy is unlikely to be his. It must be Zhang Cuo's own gambit. For one so young, he is tragically intelligent. With a weak hand to play, this imperfect compromise is the only outcome his desperate struggles could yield.
Gazing upon the prosperity of Kaifeng from atop the Revelry Hall recently, my heart was filled with an indescribable mix of feelings.
... If a path that satisfies both sides could be found, it would be a blessing indeed.