Chapter 37: Disaster of Collapsing Mountains and Splitting Earth
Cheng Yishu’s face flushed bright red at once. He immediately cupped his fists and declared with force, “Your subordinate swears to serve My Lord unto death!”
Fang Xun nodded in satisfaction, then shifted his tone. “However, though you have served in office for many years, your record has been rather unremarkable. If I were to transfer you too easily, it might invite criticism. Fortunately, there happens to be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity before us.”
He then explained that the newly appointed magistrate of Lengshan County had been delayed due to blocked official roads and would not arrive on time.
“As I depart, I can first leave behind an official document, making an exceptional promotion for you to temporarily act as magistrate of Lengshan County. ‘In the absence of the magistrate, the county commandant shall oversee all affairs.’ This is also permitted under the laws of Great Qian.”
“Although you will not sit in this magistrate’s seat for long, once this achievement is added to your record, it will help you silence many future criticisms,” Fang Xun said earnestly.
“Act… acting magistrate?” Cheng Yishu froze on the spot.
Deep down, he should have felt a trace of unease and doubt. Yet before him lay the supreme authority of an entire county, something he had struggled for half his life and longed for even in his dreams. That faint hesitation was instantly burned away by an uncontrollable blaze of greed.
He took a deep breath. Without the slightest hesitation, he accepted on the spot.
“Yishu, I knew I judged you correctly!” Fang Xun laughed heartily, his face full of approval.