Magistrate's Five-Year Begging: Li Shimin's Shock

In the early years of Zhenguan, Magistrate Shen Yan annually pleaded poverty, claiming no grain and suffering people in Jingyang. Emperor Li Shimin, undercover, discovered full granaries, bustling trade routes, and thriving citizens. Yet, Shen Yan was caught accepting bribes, visiting pleasure districts, investing in gambling dens, and even taking money to recommend officials. Li Shimin nearly killed him but found this 'corrupt' magistrate held shocking hidden cards to save the county and people. Shen Yan remained unaware that the wealthy Chang'an merchant he executed was none other than the reigning emperor.