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

Chapter 9: Another Scheme

Inside the studio, the director and his team were somewhat perplexed by this unfolding situation.

“Professor Yang, do you think Wang Zhi’s primary goal is to make a profit from the restaurant, or do you suspect there’s a more profound motive behind his actions?” The director inquired directly.

“Based on the information available, his main aim is to generate income by selling the Imperial Cuisine, particularly after emphasizing its irresistible appeal. Wang Zhi is displaying a remarkable level of audacity,” Professor Yang mused.

The female leader seemed puzzled and added, “But wouldn’t the risks be substantial if they were caught doing something like this?”

“That’s precisely why Wang Zhi hasn’t explicitly stated his intentions. Even if things go awry, they can easily shift the blame onto Xiaojin, making it seem like it’s all her doing,” the director explained, revealing his understanding of the situation.

The group was shocked by the audaciousness of Wang Zhi’s actions.

“Let’s continue to observe. If Xiaojin could discern Wang Zhi’s needs, she likely has a plan for what would come next. We should see how she intends to handle this,” the director urged everyone to stay vigilant.

These recent developments were undeniably thrilling, and it was becoming apparent why even Luo Chen, who could grasp Wang Zhi’s intentions, might ultimately find himself in a dire predicament.

The plot continued to unfold as the scene shifted to the Ministry of Justice’s inner hall, where the head of the Imperial Cuisine kitchen anxiously awaited Qin Xuan. His excitement was palpable upon seeing her.

Qin Xuan had become a prominent figure alongside Wang Zhi, and meeting her was a significant consolation for those who couldn’t meet Wang Zhi in person.

“Master’s health is not at its best. If you have any matters to discuss, please feel free to speak with me,” Qin Xuan said with a humble yet self-assured smile.

The head of the Imperial Cuisine kitchen, overwhelmed with worry, quickly implored, “Lord Qin, my son, though he has committed a transgression, should not receive a punishment as severe as fifty lashes. He won’t survive such a punishment.”

In ancient times, fifty lashes, administered with full force, could either be fatal or leave a person severely maimed.

Upon hearing this, Qin Xuan smiled faintly and took a seat. “Sir, there’s no need to be anxious.”

The head of the kitchen became even more desperate, pleading, “I beseech your mercy, Lord Qin!”

“Do you know why Master fell ill?” Qin Xuan asked, still smiling.

The head of the kitchen shook his head vigorously and said, “Please, Lord, enlighten me.”

“Master saw you and was reminded of the Imperial Cuisine His Majesty graciously bestowed upon him last time. It made his mouth water uncontrollably,” Qin Xuan explained.

Despite holding the position of the kitchen head, this officer was renowned for personally cooking delectable dishes that were well-known throughout the court.

“I’ll prepare it for you right away. It’s a small matter!” The head of the kitchen hastily responded.

However, Qin Xuan adopted a stern expression, saying, “Nonsense! The Imperial Cuisine is intended for His Majesty’s consumption. If you prepare it for Master now, wouldn’t that be considered improper?”

“Very well, if there are any leftovers from His Majesty in the future, you can send them our way. His Majesty encourages officers to be thrifty, and even if he finds out, he won’t hold it against anyone.”

“Amazing! Can it be this simple?”

“Unbelievable! It seems receiving the Emperor’s leftovers isn’t a big deal!”

“This argument is absolutely convincing!”

“Qin Xuan, what about the restaurant? What’s the plan for the restaurant?”

“That’s right! I remember Lord Wang mentioned something about the restaurant. Shouldn’t you be taking care of it? And what about this officer’s son? How will he be handled?”

Netizens were left in awe of Qin Xuan’s words, finding them quite astonishing. Wang Zhi likely had something like this in mind.

In the audience, the previous challenger, Luo Chen, watched without resentment. He wore a bitter smile, realizing that despite extensive rehearsals, facing such pressure on stage was an entirely different experience.

Qin Xuan’s performance was undeniably flawless. Even if he were to go on stage again, he couldn’t match Qin Xuan’s level of perfection. The overall performance was exceptionally strong as if Qin Xuan were born for this.

At that moment, the head of the kitchen quickly reassured, “Rest assured, from now on, if there are any extra dishes, I will secretly send them to the government office.”

“Excellent, it’s best to share joy with others. How about this? I know a restaurant that I’m quite familiar with. Would you like to arrange some meals with them? And if possible, assist this officer’s son as well,” the head of the kitchen proposed.

“I’m quite satisfied with that plan. By sending the dishes there, not only can people from all over enjoy these delicacies, but you can also generate some profit,” Qin Xuan stated.

This suggestion left the head of the kitchen in a state of astonishment. Delivering Imperial Cuisine to a civilian restaurant, even if it were merely for show, had the potential for substantial profits. He had heard that previous heads of the Imperial Cuisine kitchen had pursued similar endeavors and earned a considerable income. However, such ventures required influential support to succeed.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better arrangement. But, Lord Wang, why are you assisting me with this?” the head of the kitchen asked, perplexed.

He could have easily found someone within the Imperial Cuisine kitchen to handle this. Being in a position where he needed assistance from Lord Wang, he couldn’t fathom why Lord Wang would go the extra mile for him.

“Master saw your dedication and feels sympathetic towards you. That’s why he’s extending a helping hand to enable you to earn some money.”

“Otherwise, in the future, when similar situations arise, you won’t even have the resources to make proper preparations,” Qin Xuan replied with a smile, looking at the head of the kitchen.

The head of the kitchen felt somewhat embarrassed. It wasn’t that he didn’t want to offer gifts. It was just that his son had squandered all his resources, and he lacked profitable connections.

“In that case, please convey my gratitude to Lord Wang. And what about my son?” The head of the kitchen inquired.

“Don’t worry. Whether it’s an actual punishment or just for show, it’s all at Master’s discretion,” Qin Xuan reassured him.

At that moment, just outside the inner hall, Wang Zhi overheard every word of their conversation and wore a satisfied expression.

Qin Xuan had executed his role flawlessly, leaving no room for criticism. He displayed intelligence, quick thinking, and the ability to navigate situations precisely.

“I’m thoroughly impressed. I can’t find the words to express it. He resolved multiple issues so adeptly. It’s truly remarkable.”

“Indeed, I’m in awe as well. If they put me in that position, I wouldn’t know how to handle it.”

“This restaurant, not to mention it, is bound to make a significant amount of money. If Qin Xuan has truly crossed over, he’s in for substantial earnings, and he deserves it.”

“However, I have one question: why did Wang Zhi assist the head of the kitchen in making money? He could have simply chosen someone from the Imperial Cuisine kitchen. Could it be, as Qin Xuan mentioned, an act of sympathy?”

“That can’t be the only reason. Let’s ask Qin Xuan later!”

The netizens found themselves somewhat puzzled. Soon, the head of the Imperial Cuisine kitchen departed, and Qin Xuan returned to Wang Zhi’s side.

“Qin Xuan, you performed exceptionally well!” Wang Zhi praised directly.

“The head of the kitchen is still grateful to Master,” Qin Xuan responded promptly.

“Do you know why I brought the eunuch from the Imperial Cuisine kitchen?”

“We could have selected any supervisor from there,” Wang Zhi asked with an intrigued expression as if he were testing Qin Xuan.

Qin Xuan remained composed and replied, “Master, his son’s foolishness was a momentary lapse. After leaving the Ministry of Justice’s prison today, he won’t make the same mistake again.”

“If we were to select a supervisor directly from the Imperial Cuisine kitchen, it could potentially lead to resentment and division within the team. Bringing the eunuch demonstrates our support for the kitchen staff and maintains harmony.”

Wang Zhi nodded in approval. “You’ve thought this through thoroughly. Your foresight is commendable.”

Qin Xuan’s strategic thinking and wisdom impressed Wang Zhi.

“By helping him make money, he’ll be indebted to Lord Wang forever,” Qin Xuan added.

Wang Zhi displayed a contented expression, saying, “Indeed, he is teachable! Teachable indeed!”

Qin Xuan was undeniably a promising talent. In the studio, the director looked at the screen, unsure what to say.

“Old Yang, where did this young person, Qin Xuan, learn all these intricate maneuvers?” The director inquired.

“Perhaps he studied history. In ancient times, officers were always cautious in their actions. Qin Xuan possesses extensive historical knowledge and has added his interpretation, resulting in this kind of effectiveness,” Yang Chongming explained.

The atmosphere depicted was indeed daunting, and the people in the studio agreed that they were fortunate not to live in such an environment. They felt they wouldn’t know how to survive in such a culture. This environment was undoubtedly intimidating. At that moment, the show’s ratings reached new heights and gained international attention. Foreign netizens were astounded.

“Oh my God, surviving in such an environment is unbelievable.”

“Is this the frightening aspect of ancient China? Compared to Qin Xuan, we seem like idiots.”

The program was making waves not only domestically but also internationally, leaving viewers around the world astonished.

“The show is impressive, but its success is mainly thanks to Qin Xuan. Without Qin Xuan, this show would be quite mediocre.”

Foreign netizens had high praise for Qin Xuan. They recognized that the program was indeed impressive, but they understood that without Qin Xuan, it wouldn’t be nearly as captivating. In today’s episode, the performances were not on the same level, highlighting Qin Xuan’s exceptional ability to discern the intentions of others.

Foreign netizens widely shared these videos, and in their hearts, Qin Xuan had already become an idol. This was what the art of language truly meant. However, Qin Xuan was unaware that his performance had gained international recognition. He remained focused on facing new challenges and working diligently in his role.

Just then, the camera focused on Wang Zhi, and in the room where Qin Xuan was absent, there was another ordinary officer.

“Lord, your humble servant is willing to work tirelessly and takes on more tasks than others, but my salary is the same as everyone else’s. It seems a bit unfair,” the officer said.

“It seems unfair!” The officer spoke with a disgruntled tone.

Hearing this, Wang Zhi raised his head slightly and looked at the officer, asking, “What’s your name, and who is your superior?”

The Ministry of Justice had many officers, and this lower-ranking officer’s position might not even be on Wang Zhi’s radar.

“My name is Wen Ping, and my superior is Lord Qin Xuan!” Wen Ping replied promptly.

“Get Qin Xuan for me,” Wang Zhi said in a stern tone.

And so, Qin Xuan was immediately summoned.

“Qin Xuan, your management seems lacking. Wen Ping works diligently and takes on more tasks, so he should receive a higher salary. How about this, Wen Ping, we will provide you with an extra monthly stipend based on the additional work you perform, but the imperial treasury won’t cover it,” Wang Zhi declared.

Wang Zhi glanced at Qin Xuan and continued, “Since this matter is related to you, each month, we will deduct a portion of your salary to compensate Wen Ping. What do you think?”

“Master is correct, and I willingly accept the punishment,” Qin Xuan responded unwaveringly.

Wang Zhi smiled warmly and turned to Wen Ping. “Wen Ping, what do you think of this decision?”

“Your humble servant, thanks, Lord Wang. It’s said that Lord Wang has a harsh temperament, unpredictable moods, but your humble servant finds you amiable and approachable,” Wen Ping stated, expressing his gratitude.

He truly didn’t expect that Wang Zhi would take action on his behalf.

“Alright, get back to work. You’re good, very good. I’ll remember you,” Wang Zhi maintained his smiling demeanor.

“Wow, I feel like this guy is in trouble. I might not be the smartest person, but I know that reporting issues directly to higher-ups usually doesn’t end well,” one netizen commented.

“Could this guy be on Qin Xuan’s bad side?” Another wondered.

“But wait, isn’t Qin Xuan one of Wang Zhi’s trusted individuals? Why isn’t he speaking up for Qin Xuan?” The confusion among netizens persisted.

At this moment, right after Wen Ping left, Wang Zhi changed his expression.

“Qin Xuan, what have you done? Why did this case end up on my desk? If this continues, everyone will do the same. How can the Ministry of Justice function like this?” Wang Zhi pretended to scold.

Qin Xuan nodded, “Master, Wen Ping…”

“Since he receives a stipend, he should also perform the tasks he’s supposed to. I heard that bandits are causing trouble in the outskirts of the northern city…” Wang Zhi casually mentioned.

“I understand. This time, should I let your nephew lead the operation?” Qin Xuan inquired.

“Go ahead!” Wang Zhi approved.