The Complete Guide to Secret Affairs in Officialdom

Throughout China's history, the vast officialdom has been like a mysterious, unfathomable black hole. Those who spend their days navigating the treacherous sea of officialdom can be shattered in an instant, swallowed without a trace by this enormous black hole. If the black holes in space are governed by the natural forces of the universe, then this black hole of officialdom is ultimately controlled by human hands. To a great extent, the one who rules this black hole is the emperor, wielding absolute power. As Heaven's representative on earth, the emperor holds the power of life and death over all the people in his realm. On a whim, he can deal with anyone he wishes, at any time and in any place. Truly, "His praise can raise you to the heavens, and his condemnation can send you to the depths of the earth." So anyone hoping to rise swiftly through the ranks of officialdom must first face the challenge of dealing with an emperor whose moods are impossible to predict. In time, they finally discover that these sacred and untouchable emperors are only human. They have not only the seven emotions and six desires, but also the same joys, sorrows, likes, and dislikes as everyone else. And so, one strategy after another arises. Those who spend their days maneuvering at the emperor's side eventually turn danger into safety, enjoy smooth careers, and rise to the highest offices.