I Built a Tax Bureau in Ancient Times

[One woman, multiple men! The men are all chaste.]

The nation is on the brink of collapse, and the treasury is so empty a horse could race through it. The court officials argued for three days and came up with just two words: “Raise taxes.”

Shen Zhiwei, transmigrated into the body of an overlooked young lady of the marquis’s household, quietly pulled out a book titled Modernizing the National Tax Administration System.

Later...

The stern-faced secret guard knelt on one knee and presented her with the secret accounts of corrupt officials. “I am willing to be the sharpest blade in your hand, my lord.”

The tycoon, whose wealth rivaled that of a nation, smashed his abacus and pinned her against the account room wall, eyes red. “Teach me. Whatever you want, I’ll give you.”

The chief minister, who had risen from humble origins, argued against the entire court to implement her tax reforms. “Zhiwei’s policies can save the realm.”

The emperor on the dragon throne smiled and asked her, “My dear Minister Shen, whom will you choose?”

She lowered her eyes without answering and quietly pushed open the Ministry of Revenue’s doors.

Inside were the fifty certified accountants she had just trained, and...

A vast commercial empire of her own, only beginning to take shape.

True prey often enters the game appearing to be prey.