Chapter 1037: The Undeservedly Famous County Magistrate Zhang
Xiang Weinan indeed meant this, he nodded, "You, this Village Chief, are genuine, recognized by the entire imperial court for your achievements, proclaimed by the Emperor to the world, and enjoy a stipend. Her? It’s just an empty title."
Shu Yu was curious, "What do you mean?"
"This County Magistrate Zhang’s family used to run a small business, about... seven years ago? It seemed to be around that time. The Zhang family brought her to the capital to seek relatives, coincidentally when the Empress Dowager was persuaded to leave the palace in disguise for a secret visit. Who knew they would encounter assassins, and by coincidence, the Empress Dowager was saved by this County Magistrate Zhang, even taking a knife for her amidst the chaos."
Such incidents are not uncommon; throughout history, there have been countless people who shielded the Emperor or Empress Dowager from knives.
In the beginning, no one mentioned conferring the title of county magistrate upon her, but of course, rewards would be very generous.
However, this County Magistrate Zhang suffered a serious injury from the stab wound and was once at death’s door. Fortunately, the Imperial Physician saved her just in time, and after several days of unconsciousness, she finally woke up.
The Empress Dowager, having recovered from the shock, praised the twelve or thirteen-year-old girl who shielded her, commending her for her bravery at such a young age, and asked her what reward she desired.
At the time, it was unclear whether County Magistrate Zhang was still in shock or wanted to advance by retreating. She said she wanted no reward; she considered it an honor to shield the Empress Dowager with her back wound a badge of merit.
The Empress Dowager was deeply moved by this, telling her only to recover well and that she would not be treated unfairly.
County Magistrate Zhang recuperated in the Imperial Hospital within the palace, with the Empress Dowager occasionally visiting her. Over time, the two developed a good rapport, and the Empress Dowager became very fond of her.