Rebirth and Reversal of Fortune

Chapter 69 Xiao Ling's Political Affairs

Recently, in order to increase fiscal revenue, the imperial court decided to implement a new tax policy nationwide. However, this policy has encountered many obstacles in its implementation, especially in some commercially developed areas, where merchants have expressed their dissatisfaction, believing that the new policy has increased their burden.

Xiao Ling, as one of the officials in charge of this matter, was under immense pressure. He knew that the original intention of this policy was to replenish the national treasury to cope with possible foreign invasions and domestic disasters, but if the demands of the merchants were not properly addressed, it could very likely lead to social instability.

"We must find a way that satisfies both the need to increase tax revenue and the need to satisfy the merchants." Xiao Ling paced back and forth in his study, pondering a solution.

He first thoroughly investigated the actual situation of merchants in various regions and discovered that taxes in some areas were indeed too high, affecting normal business operations. Therefore, Xiao Ling suggested to the imperial court that differentiated tax standards be formulated based on the economic development level and the profitability of merchants in different regions.

However, his proposal was opposed by some conservative officials.

“Xiao Ling, you are shaking the foundation of the court’s policies. This must not be changed lightly,” an old minister said sternly.

Xiao Ling argued forcefully: "My lord, the purpose of our policies is to promote the prosperity of the country. If inappropriate policies lead to the decline of commerce, wouldn't that be a loss outweighing the gains?"

In the heated court debate, Xiao Ling did not back down and finally persuaded the court to partially adopt his suggestions and make certain adjustments to the tax policy.

But new problems followed. In order to meet their tax revenue targets, some local officials excessively exploited and extorted money from businesses, leading to widespread public resentment.

Upon learning of this, Xiao Ling immediately submitted a memorial to the imperial court, requesting that these corrupt officials be severely punished.

"Without rectifying official corruption, even the best policies will be difficult to implement," Xiao Ling's memorial was earnest.

The emperor took his memorial seriously and ordered the establishment of a special investigation team to investigate the tax collection situation in various regions.

During this process, Xiao Ling encountered numerous threats and temptations.

“Lord Xiao, as long as you turn a blind eye, you’ll be well rewarded,” a local official said to Xiao Ling privately.

Xiao Ling sternly refused: "As an official of the imperial court, I should prioritize the country and its people. How could I be bought off by petty people like you?"

After a period of effort, tax policies gradually got on track, the dissatisfaction of merchants was alleviated, and the country's fiscal revenue also saw steady growth.

However, before Xiao Ling could even breathe a sigh of relief, news of an enemy invasion arrived from the border.

The imperial court decided to send troops to resist, but disagreements arose over the collection of military funds and the deployment of troops.

Xiao Ling once again plunged into busy political affairs, working day and night to devise strategies for the safety and stability of the country.

At this time, Su Jinxiu in the Marquis's mansion also learned of this news. On the one hand, she was worried about Xiao Ling's health, and on the other hand, she was thinking about what she could do for the country.

"I must support Xiao Ling and get through this difficult time together," Su Jinxiu secretly resolved.

Just as Xiao Ling was overwhelmed with the border war, rumors began to circulate within the court, saying that he was hoarding troops and harboring rebellious intentions.

Xiao Ling knew that this was a deliberate frame-up, but he had no time to worry about it at the moment and could only devote himself to the work of resisting foreign enemies.

Meanwhile, at the Marquis's residence, Su Jinxiu also faces provocations from some uninvited guests...