Chapter 168: Corruption

The court sessions recently have been focused on disaster relief. There were droughts in some parts of the kingdom, while other parts were preparing for flood season. All of them require funding. 

The Emperor sat on his golden dragon throne and looked down at the neat rows of ministers and officials standing on the palace floor. His voice boomed across the room. 

"Did I not make it clear that help will be provided to my people? I thought I told you to go to the Ministry of Accounts and withdraw funds from the treasury."

The official who was giving the report bowed deeply. "Your Majesty did give such orders, and I went to the Ministry of Accounts. However…"

"However what?"

The official glanced at his peers before taking a deep breath and answering, "The treasury is low on funds."

The Emperor raised his eyebrows and his voice. "The treasury is low on funds? How could this be? Minister of Accounts, what do you have to say for this?"