Zhao Mobai came from a poor family and ranked first in the provincial examination, but was dismissed by the examiner as "obscure" in the general examination. It was found out that he was replaced because he had no money to give gifts. He did not make a fuss, but quietly collected evidence, stopped the driver on the day of the palace examination and presented the examiner with a list of bribes taken. The emperor ordered a thorough investigation on the spot, and Zhao Mobai was admitted under exceptional circumstances. But he offended the vested interests of the entire court. At the beginning of his official career, murderous intent was already approaching.
