Chapter 27: Outrageously Arrogant, Abusing His Authority

He opened the envelope and scanned its contents. Most of the entries involved petty matters, such as accepting bribes and approving land for temple construction. The Ministry of Rites held considerable power. It oversaw the Provincial Examination, the Imperial Examination, diplomatic receptions, religious affairs, and much more. Four entries stood out because of the enormous sums involved. The first concerned the unauthorized construction of Clear Breeze Temple on the outskirts of the capital....