The emperor was just throwing bricks to attract jade. His cousin was this "brick", and the Xie Residence was the "jade" behind it.
Yu Youyao had been conferred the title of county lord, and the Xie family was the first to bear the brunt. On the other hand, the Xie family had a rich foundation and was very prestigious in the business world. If the Xie family generously contributed, would the other businesses dare to cover up?
The rankings from highest to lowest included scholars, farmers, businessmen, and merchants. Once they angered the Imperial Court, they could casually pick on a mistake in tax evasion and smuggling. It would be easy to confiscate their houses and exterminate their families.
Even if they had money, they had to live to enjoy it.
