I Want to Be Emperor.

Summary

Chang An remains prosperous, but subtle changes are evident as outsiders increasingly inhabit the city. Wealthy individuals from Guandong are buying properties, driving up prices and displacing locals. A surge of nearly 30,000 scholars from Guandong, motivated by imperial examination aspirations, is overwhelming the city. The quality of scholarship has declined, with many claiming the title without adequate education. This has tarnished the reputation of scholars, making them common rather than esteemed. Discussions about raising examination standards are met with resistance due to the entrenched interests of officials who emerged from the current system. Ji An, the Chief Secretary, recognizes the futility of challenging the established order, reflecting on the complexities of governance and the influence of the examination system.

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