To bravely speak out against powerful wrongdoers or expose corruption, even at great personal risk; to denounce those in high positions for their misdeeds and demand justice.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Story:
During the reign of Emperor Cheng of Han, Zhang Yu, the Marquis of Anchang and Emperor Cheng's tutor, became arrogant and tyrannical due to his favored status.
Court officials, despite their anger, dared not speak out against him. Official Zhu Yun submitted a memorial to Emperor Cheng, requesting the imperial sword to execute the corrupt official Zhang Yu and rectify the court's discipline.
Emperor Cheng was furious, declaring, "This minor official, from a humble position, dares to insult his superior and openly humiliate my tutor. His crime is punishable by death and unforgivable."