A Top Scholar From A Humble Background.

Summary

Zhang Lian felt overshadowed by a young imperial envoy's greed, realizing the Franco captives had to pay hefty "living expenses" and "tribute" as interest for their compensation. Despite haggling, the deal was sealed with a contract. Shen Xi planned to escort the Franco envoy to the capital, leaving Zhang Lian to manage the spoils. Meanwhile, Yu Niang revealed her mission to investigate grain tax resistance in Quanzhou, uncovering that local officials had manipulated grain reports and suppressed dissent. The situation highlighted Zhang Lian's corruption, as he sought to profit while maintaining political favor, a common issue in the Ming Dynasty.

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