This has all the makings of one of those 20-part mini-series that are so popular on Chinese TV
The main character is the grasping, calculating and corrupt wife of a pliant and hoodwinked high official, who eventually succumbs to her corruption. She’s got lackey’s in his office who are in on her schemes, which even involve murder. Meanwhile, there is the loyal, clean and heroic Communist Party investigator who is trying to gather information on the crimes of her and her husband.
A beautiful young secretary of the wife’s inner-circle falls in love with the dashing investigator, yet he is too honest and dedicated to the Party to return her unrequited love. The secretary eventually provides him the evidence he needs, but she is killed by the wife in the end (cut to the young woman coughing up blood as she passes away in her beloved’s arms)
Now all I need is a theme-song.....
Set this story in Tang imperial court, it makes a classic imperial soap opera.