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

Chapter 7: A World Full of Intrigue

Qin Xuan wasn’t surprised at all. The plan to use someone else’s hand to commit the murder was, in fact, Wang Zhi’s idea, and he had made it quite clear before. Skilled leaders often operate in this manner. They couldn’t state their intentions too explicitly, as it could easily lead to problems. Leaders revealed one part, and the rest was left for you to interpret.

Those who understood their leader’s intentions could advance more quickly. Without this ability, they wouldn’t comprehend what the leader was saying, and how could they then earn their leader’s approval?

In a sense, this was a drawback and a unique cultural trait. After completing the task given by Wang Zhi, Qin Xuan naturally received a generous reward. As for the amount of stolen money, how to report it upwards, and how much to report, all of that was determined by the insiders. As long as he returned ten taels of gold from the treasury, everything else was not an issue.

This was truly a win-win situation. Qin Xuan gained Wang Zhi’s appreciation and received a significant reward. His nephew accomplished a feat, and Wang Zhi, in the end, vented his anger. The key was that they also solved the problem of thieves plaguing the area, thus benefiting the people. Wang Zhi was extremely pleased with Qin Xuan’s actions. As for the gold seized this time, Qin Xuan received ten taels of it.

Qin Xuan didn’t refuse either. Since he had put in the effort, and Wang Zhi insisted on giving, there was no need to pretend otherwise. If he were to refuse Wang Zhi’s goodwill, it might give off suspicious signals, and that wouldn’t be a good idea.

Internet users followed the story with great enthusiasm:

“Wow, this is so satisfying! The antagonist is incredibly clever. I never saw this coming!”

“If I were that small merchant, I’d be forever grateful to Wang Zhi!”

“If I were the neighbor of that small merchant, I’d be envious too!”

Internet users were buzzing with admiration. This show was incredibly entertaining. The unexpected turn of events, which seemed straightforward, was incredibly complex. It presented challenges that no one could have imagined.

Inside the studio, the director couldn’t calm down for a long time. The situation was beyond anyone’s expectations. Even some young people would probably struggle with the problems Wang Zhi presented.

“These tactics of using others to achieve one’s goals have been a specialty of our ancestors,” the director mused. “It’s been discussed in military strategy. Young Qin is not only knowledgeable about history but also knows how to apply these principles.”

“Once you thoroughly grasp it, only then can you handle it with such finesse,” Yang Chongming commented.

He knew the principles, but if it were himself, he probably couldn’t execute it as brilliantly as Qin Xuan did. Young Qin was incredibly skilled, with an exceptionally meticulous mind, leaving no room for error. Now, thinking about it, it was quite fortunate. If it weren’t for Qin Xuan’s volunteering, their production team would have overlooked such an exceptional talent.

“The AI you’ve developed is a bit over the top. Ordinary people wouldn’t be able to pull this off!” The director playfully scolded.

He was only jesting, acknowledging that the lifelike AI had its advantages, especially in terms of creating a more engaging show.

Yang Chongming nodded, saying, “That’s how AI technology works. It greatly reproduces everything that happened in the past.”

“After all, the Ming Dynasty was an era of intense political maneuvering, especially among civil officers. Without cunning and political understanding, they wouldn’t have survived.”

This program held significant meaning, altering people’s common perception of Ming Dynasty officers. Thanks to novels and time-travel dramas, there was a prevalent belief that ancient officers lacked intelligence and could easily be manipulated by modern migrants.

In reality, it was quite the opposite—these officers had deeply intricate political minds. At this moment, in the live chat room, the viewers were still excited and engaged. The storyline of this program had been thoroughly satisfying, like a refreshing rain after a long drought. It was as if a long-suffering woman, who had waited years for her husband’s return, had finally seen him return. In any case, people found it very comfortable to watch, but they were left wanting more.

Unfortunately, despite the extended runtime for this episode, it was nearing its conclusion. As the audience waited for Qin Xuan’s new task, the program was coming to an end.

“Wow, it’s over already? I wanted to see Qin Xuan rise in rank and wealth!”

“With Qin Xuan’s abilities, it won’t be long before he soars to new heights.”

“He’s talented, emotionally intelligent, and understands Wang Zhi’s thoughts. If he doesn’t advance in his career, that would be unjust!”

“Indeed, I’m extremely satisfied with Qin Xuan’s performance. He’s incredible!”

“See you tomorrow, everyone!”

As the clock struck ten, the program ended, and Qin Xuan descended from the stage. His gains this time had exceeded all expectations. First, he received a hundred taels of silver, and then, he obtained ten taels of gold. All of these items were stored in the system’s space. This was truly invaluable.

These items could be sold or converted into cash through the system’s marketplace. In any case, it was very user-friendly. Qin Xuan liked this feature of the system. As he came down from the stage, Qin Xuan had a lot on his mind. As the storyline progressed, he realized that the challenges he was facing were becoming increasingly difficult. He used to think that serving as the Minister of Punishments was challenging, but now he has become more stressed.

Not to mention the emperors. After descending from the stage, Qin Xuan went directly to the control room. The leaders praised him again, making him feel a bit embarrassed.

“Qin, your idea of a corrupt officer is great. The viewership ratings are soaring, not just in the province but nationwide.”

After the Ming Dynasty, we can do a series on the Qing Dynasty, the Republic of China, and so on,” the director excitedly suggested, but Qin Xuan stopped him.

“Director, let’s not explore that avenue. Let’s stick to ancient times,” Qin Xuan said, his forehead covered in sweat.

Only in this parallel world could they discuss these topics so openly. In the previous world, the show would have been canceled, and you’d risk ending your career by broaching such subjects. However, getting back to the discussion, the director’s idea was a good one. In every era, there were corrupt officers. For example, figures like Xu Jie in the Ming Dynasty and Heshen in the Qing Dynasty. When discussing the modern era, Qin Xuan couldn’t help but think of a character from a previous TV drama, Qi Tongwei.

In this parallel world, the program’s boundaries weren’t very strict. Upon closer examination, there were many facets to explore.

“By the way, Qin Xuan, what are your thoughts on the Ming Dynasty’s maritime expeditions to the West?” Yang Chongming suddenly inquired.

Those who studied history, utilizing various research methods such as unearthed artifacts and overseas documents, had found that the Ming Dynasty’s maritime expeditions differed from what was recorded in officer historical texts. It was a more complex situation.

“I think it’s a positive development. It contributed to economic growth and increased control over overseas territories,” Qin Xuan pondered for a moment before expressing his opinion.

The explanation given in history textbooks was that these expeditions were aimed at finding the Jianwen Emperor and displaying wealth. However, some mainstream views in the country argued that these expeditions were intended to strengthen the tribute system with Southeast Asia and increase control over overseas territories.

“Why would it boost the economy? Wasn’t Zheng’s expedition all about flaunting wealth?” A female leader was puzzled.

Yang Chongming shook his head slightly in response, “It couldn’t have been just about showing off wealth.”

“Logically speaking, even if it were to flaunt wealth, it wouldn’t make sense to do it year after year. Moreover, the fleets sent by the Ming Dynasty were highly capable, essentially equivalent to military forces.”

Qin Xuan added, “That’s right. Ever since the Yongle Emperor initiated these expeditions, the Ming Dynasty’s treasury unexpectedly became very prosperous, despite the costs.”

“Indeed, the Ming Dynasty, under Emperor Yongle, carried out these maritime expeditions, far-reaching campaigns against the Mongols, extensive capital city construction, and it seemed like they spent a lot of money.”

“Yet, the state treasury remained unaffected. Many scholars inside the country believe that the profits from the maritime expeditions were quite substantial,” Yang Chongming explained.

The leaders nodded in agreement. Qin Xuan had gained some insights as well.

Qin Xuan seemed to understand and asked, “Professor Yang, based on historical records, Emperor Chenghua also contemplated restoring the maritime expeditions.”

“Are you suggesting I should focus on exploring this aspect?”

Yang Chongming expressed approvingly, “Yes, the topic of maritime expeditions has captured everyone’s interest.”

Part of this program, “Entering History,” was to help more people understand history and immerse themselves in it.

“Of course, aside from the maritime expeditions, there are many other interesting topics, such as campaigns against the Mongols, the three conquests of Jianzhou Jurchens, and the establishment of the Western Depot (Xichang).”

“All of these have great significance.”

Qin Xuan wholeheartedly agreed with Professor Yang’s observations. He also believed Emperor Zhu Jiànshēn was an underestimated monarch, considering he had a dark and notorious father.

“Alright, Qin Xuan, go rest now. You need to prepare for the third episode. However, the next challenger to step onto the stage will be another person.”

“Higher-ups decided it. They didn’t approve your proposal to have both of you on the same stage,” the director explained.

The higher authorities had arranged the next challenger, and he couldn’t refuse it. He was genuinely concerned that this privileged candidate might mess things up. After all, the program had just started to gain traction, and it would be a shame if this challenger ruined it.

“Don’t worry, Director. I’ve got it covered,” Qin Xuan reassured, showing no fear when dealing with these seasoned ancient experts.

The director added, “If the third episode goes smoothly, funding will be allocated from above, and we can extend the program over the weekend. We can create a special feature like an extra story.”

“It won’t be in a live format, but it’ll allow us to tell the story more effectively.”

Qin Xuan suddenly realized why Professor Yang had shared so much information with him earlier. There was a new policy from higher authorities.

“Please prepare for the third episode. It’s crucial!” “Thank you for your concern, Director!”

Qin Xuan thanked the leaders and left the control room. Watching his departing figure, Yang Chongming couldn’t help but jest, “Aren’t you afraid that the person sent from above will steal Qin Xuan’s spotlight?”

The director shook his head, saying, “I’m not concerned about that.

Today’s challenges were intense, and I was sweating bullets. I’m more worried about the person sent from above messing things up.”

Yang Chongming agreed, “Indeed, the order from above to have the new person have the same character setting as Qin Xuan is an obvious attempt to replace him. Sometimes, I feel it’s unfair to Qin Xuan!”

Although many people were sincere, there were always a few with ulterior motives.