Let you play a corrupt official, are you saying you want to make progress?

Chapter 14: Qin Xuan’s Wisdom

The studio team was somewhat puzzled.

“Professor Yang, isn’t Qin Xuan making Wang Zhi look foolish?”

The studio team, consisting of modern individuals, found it challenging to comprehend the mindset of people from ancient times. Suddenly, many attractive women surround the situation, which seems rather inappropriate. Moreover, it appeared that Qin Xuan had taken matters into his own hands without consulting Wang Zhi.

Professor Yang shook his head and said, “Director, you’re mistaken. We can’t use contemporary thinking to understand the people of ancient times. In addition, in ancient times, wives and concubines had distinct roles.”

During ancient times, concubines were treated as possessions, tools for their masters’ use.

“If you’re still uncertain, consider a well-known example like Su Shi. He could entertain guests with his concubines and even offer his concubines to others. Ancient people didn’t pay much attention to such matters.”

With this explanation, the team begins to comprehend the situation.

“As for the request, it came from Wang Zhi. He was indirectly suggesting that Qin Xuan should bring in valuable individuals by reminding him that adopted sons are not as valuable as biological sons.”

“But, Professor Yang, isn’t there a risk in bringing in so many people? What if the Emperor discovers this?”

“Certainly not. Even if someone reports it, it won’t attract much attention. And if an investigation were to occur, it would be perceived as a virtuous act.”

Through the AI simulation, Professor Yang can sense the remarkable strength of this Minister of Justice. Each step is fraught with risk. Every move made by Wang Zhi is well thought out.

“Furthermore, Qin Xuan initiated this, and in the worst-case scenario, he can distance himself by claiming he was unaware of Wang Zhi’s motives. This Minister Wang has executed this plan quite neatly,” Professor Yang commends Wang Zhi’s profound understanding of human nature.

Wang Zhi’s control over human nature is commendable, successfully executing this plan with precision.

“There’s one more thing: Qin Xuan mentioned that the opening of the calligraphy and painting shop is related to the case. Why would the opening of a calligraphy and painting shop be connected to the case?” The female leader asked with confusion.

“I understand this. Have you noticed that Qin Xuan didn’t want this case to attract too much attention? In other words, he is dealing with the masterminds quietly. The case won’t gain widespread publicity,” the director said.

The director has pondered this for the past few days and draws on his extensive life experiences to quickly grasp the situation.

“Could it be that he is saving this kind of case, which can grab public attention, and waiting for it to be useful in case something significant happens on their side? But cases like this, once exposed, would certainly lead to major consequences. This case, although serious, isn’t weighty enough in comparison to that kind of situation,” the female leader begins to understand, “But these 52 cases are all part of a bigger plan?”

Professor Yang smiled and said, “Yes, one case isn’t enough. What about fifty-two cases?”

Hearing this, everyone felt a sense of unease. These were all intricate plots and schemes. Unexpectedly, Qin Xuan, a young individual, had a deep understanding of these matters. While it might lack virtue, there is no denying that it was highly effective. Qin Xuan was a very skillful young man.

“Qin Xuan, this young man, possesses the capability and the ideas. He’s street-smart and knows the ways of the world inside out. In a few years, he’ll undoubtedly rise through the ranks. I don’t know if it’s a positive or negative development,” the director remarks with a hint of admiration.

While they didn’t condone evil behavior here, they couldn’t deny that someone like Qin Xuan was exceptionally resourceful. Communicating with him was very comfortable. It was only a matter of time before Qin Xuan climbed the ranks in the real world.

“Don’t worry. Qin Xuan can distinguish between reality and the show. Besides, this isn’t the culture we promote here,” Professor Yang reassures them.

On the stage, Qin Xuan continued his performance. With the case of the Temple of Sending Children resolved, he began to establish the calligraphy and painting shop. As expected, under Qin Xuan’s management, some counterfeit calligraphy and paintings were sold at extravagant prices. He even hired several renowned intellectuals in the capital to assist with the promotion. Although some of these intellectuals have their principles, when confronted with pressure from the Ministry of Punishments and the allure of money, most of them give in. With these so-called experts on board, Qin Xuan’s calligraphy and painting shop thrives.

“As expected, this scheme never goes out of style!” Qin Xuan exclaimed. His original world had similar schemes. If he recalled correctly, someone bought some jade, had it transformed into “Gold Thread Jade Garment,” and had it appraised by an expert, raising the price to over a billion. That’s the benefit of having experts.

As for making the experts change their stance, that’s too simple. Money, or power, or both. Most people couldn’t resist these things. The scene began to change.

“Qin Xuan, well done. The calligraphy and painting shop business is thriving, and we’ve also started the tavern. It’s time to exert pressure on the steward,” Wang Zhi commended Qin Xuan, expressing his satisfaction with his performance.

Especially in recent days, Qin Xuan’s actions have been meticulous, handling everything perfectly. Whenever Wang Zhi conveyed his intentions, Qin Xuan executed them flawlessly. Qin Xuan’s ability to grasp Wang Zhi’s intentions without overcomplicating matters was highly valued. Wang Zhi understood that history was filled with individuals who outsmart themselves by overcomplicating things.

“Master, you’ve called me here today. Do you have any specific instructions?” Qin Xuan asked carefully, knowing that when Wang Zhi summoned him, it was for a particular purpose.

“Lately, there’s been a drought in places like Shanxi, and His Majesty needs someone to provide relief to the affected people. His Majesty and I have recommended you for this task,” Wang Zhi stated directly.

“Do you have any information about the Governor of Shanxi?” Wang Zhi inquired, looking directly at Qin Xuan.

“Master, this Governor Qian Yu is known to have no particular hobbies except for his love of food. He is generally considered upright,” Qin Xuan reported promptly, relying on information provided by the system. Obtaining such details was not straightforward for ordinary people. Qin Xuan seemed to glean something from Wang Zhi’s words.

“It appears you’ve also done your research, which is good. Remember, handle everything meticulously. Tomorrow, an imperial decree will be issued, and you’ll be responsible for disaster relief,” Wang Zhi instructs, conveying his trust in Qin Xuan.

“By the way, the Ministry of Personnel will send an officer, an ‘external gentleman.’ I’ve heard this person is quite intelligent, so be cautious with him. (Other departments will also send their representatives, but those people aren’t on our side, so you mustn’t mess things up),” Wang Zhi advises.

“Master, rest assured, I have a plan. Even though I’ll be away, I will remember your teachings. As for the profits from the calligraphy and painting shop, I will ensure you get your share when I return.”

“(Don’t worry, I have a plan, and when I return, you won’t be shortchanged),” Qin Xuan responds confidently. Upon hearing this, Wang Zhi expressed his satisfaction with a contented smile. His gaze reflected a sense of fulfillment. Indeed, Qin Xuan was proving to be an outstanding student.

“Wait a minute, is he planning to embezzle?”

“Don’t forget that disaster relief is a big deal. If he does it right, the profits can be substantial.”

“Right, I can’t believe Wang Zhi recommended Qin Xuan. He could have taken this lucrative job for himself.”

“This teacher is something. He gives all the profits to his students.”

“Upstairs, you’re too naive. If you have such an idea, you won’t live to see it tomorrow. Do you think you can keep the money for yourself without giving some to Wang Zhi?”

Online discussions were heating up, with people engaging in spirited debates. Finally, they had reached the part they had been waiting for. Qin Xuan’s latest task presented a more significant challenge than the previous ones. It was not merely a small matter but a test of his capabilities.

Inside the studio, Professor Yang took the opportunity to provide some historical context to the audience.

“In the early Ming Dynasty, the highest provincial authority was the ‘Buzhengshi’ (Assistant Provincial Governor). Governors (Xunfu) were dispatched from higher authorities and were meant to return to their original posts.”

“However, during the reign of Emperor Xuanzong, governors gradually stopped returning to their previous roles and effectively became the highest-ranking officers,” Professor Yang explains.

He was aware that while these individuals work for the television station, not everyone might have an in-depth understanding of history. His explanations were meant to help everyone better grasp the historical context.

“Professor Yang, does Qin Xuan have to make money this time?” The female leader asked. Qin Xuan’s primary goal this time was to accumulate wealth.

“In the current situation, if he were an upright officer, such matters wouldn’t fall within his purview, or he wouldn’t play a pivotal role. Although he’s the Emperor’s appointee, he’s just a fifth-rank officer. To be an upright officer in these circumstances, he has to rely on his abilities.”

“Unfortunately, a fifth-rank officer can’t change the systemic corruption in the Ming Dynasty, where tax collection was abysmal, yet bureaucrats were wealthy. Under these circumstances, his integrity alone won’t make a difference,” Professor Yang replied candidly.

This was the problem with the Ming Dynasty. Even when the state struggled to collect taxes, many officers amassed great wealth. In such an environment, a single officer’s integrity, especially a fifth-rank officer, couldn’t change the larger system.

“I now understand why Qin Xuan chose to challenge a corrupt officer. Without this choice, the challenge wouldn’t be as exciting. He can only climb the ranks step by step if he doesn’t make this kind of move,” Professor Yang reflected with a hint of nostalgia.

On the stage, the scene had shifted. Ten days have passed since the last scene. According to the narration, netizens know that Qin Xuan has arrived in Shanxi.

Throughout his journey, he witnessed widespread famine and suffering. This portrayal evokes genuine concern, and since it’s an AI simulation, it appeared quite realistic.

Qin Xuan’s visit to Shanxi was not just for disaster relief. He had a mission. To complete his task, he had to deal with an influential figure: Governor Qian Yu.

According to the information provided by the system, while Qian Yu appeared extremely incorruptible, historical records indicate that the emperor confiscated his house during the seventh year of the Chenghua reign. This suggested that he was a corrupt officer who excelled in embezzlement.

At the entrance of the governor’s office, several officers were driven away by his servants.

“My master has explicitly stated that no gifts will be accepted, but if you wish to discuss ingredients, you may enter,” a servant says disdainfully.

They kept the officers outside.

“Woah, this officer is quite something. He’s an honest officer!”

“Indeed, this officer must be clean. Qin Xuan is going to hit a wall!”

Netizens became concerned about Qin Xuan as they witnessed this scene. However, his expression was somewhat peculiar. This scene was reminiscent of a greedy officer from a TV series, Ga Li. He had a penchant for eating, and his food was excellent. But in reality, he was a corrupt officer. It was said that when people tried to bribe him with gold and silver, he refused.

However, when someone who knew his habits offered him delicacies like blanched pearls and sautéed red shrimp, he immediately accepted. Thinking to this point, Qin Xuan had an idea. Online friends, upon seeing Qin Xuan’s expression, instantly grew expectant. They were all speculating about what method Qin Xuan would employ next.