This Is Just the Beginning

Raising a private army demanded a considerable financial investment; without funds, all endeavors were futile.

The audacity of the Hangzhou prefect, launching preemptive strikes and encroaching on neighboring territories, stemmed from his perceived strength.

Confidence and bravery were bolstered by power, and power, in turn, was fueled by wealth.

Silver was the lifeblood of his operations, necessary for training and maintaining his soldiers, thus perpetuating the need for further funds.

In Jiangnan's opulent landscape, teeming with affluent families and abundant resources, the Hangzhou magistrate harbored no concerns regarding depleted coffers.

Zhao Shu's modest background and wealth made him a prime target for extortion by the Hangzhou prefect.

Without hesitation, the magistrate demanded 500,000 taels of silver from Zhao Shu, signaling just the beginning of his exorbitant demands.