Chapter 821 - 176: Thick-Skinned
Fang Liuming had discussed becoming an official in another locality with Old Scholar Fang, who listened to Mo Heng’s suggestion. Shen Songming also advised him to take the post outside, and Old Scholar Fang pondered, "Being an official outside the capital is different from being a Capital Official. One Government Office has three divisions and six departments, all of which you must manage. You also need a capable Master. If the Clerks and Government Officers under you openly oppose the County Magistrate, you can still punish them firmly. What I fear most are those who honor in word but not in deed, committing atrocities in your name."
Fang Liuming nodded; he was aware of this.
"Did they mention where you’d be stationed?" asked Old Scholar Fang.
"Not yet, but it’s supposed to be considerably far from Jingcheng. My cousin-in-law mentioned that Jingcheng won’t be peaceful in the coming years, so he suggested I gain some experience in another place first. I want to go to a somewhat poorer place. Even though the conditions are harsher, I can achieve more in terms of governance," Fang Liuming knew that his journey through the imperial examinations had relied on the support of his cousin and cousin-in-law. He couldn’t always depend on them as an official; he wanted to enjoy his role and earn promotions, perhaps someday securing an enjoinment for Qianqian!
Old Scholar Fang frowned upon hearing his thoughts but did not stop him. "You must be certain of yourself. Although it’s easier to achieve political merits in those impoverished places, they are filled with difficult terrain and troublesome people. Going there alone, your grandmother and mother will also worry about you!"
"No need to worry, Grandpa. I can handle myself in a fight, and I plan to bring two others. There won’t be many cases if we govern the area well. I’ve learned quite a bit from my cousin and now I can make good use of that knowledge!" Fang Liuming said with a smile.
Old Scholar Fang nodded.
Fang Liuming continued, "Grandpa! My dad definitely won’t agree to this, so I won’t tell him! After I’ve settled down there, I’ll write a letter back home and let him know then!"