Chapter 83: The Commendation Imperial Decree Arrives—decades Of My Path, Surpassed By You Just Like That?
Morning.
Public Security Bureau, courtyard.
Lin Fan cultivated as usual, gaining proficiency. The iron rod in his hand moved with great power, each sweep, chop, and poke imbued with immense strength.
Ning Yu, using a wooden stick she found somewhere, followed suit, imitating his movements.
She also wanted to become as powerful as her master.
But she couldn’t learn it.
【Thousand Jin Staff Technique Proficiency +1】
Lin Fan stopped and looked at Ning Yu, smiling, “Don’t learn it, it’s useless.”
“Master, am I too stupid to ever learn it?” Ning Yu asked dejectedly.
Lin Fan said, “It’s not that you’re stupid, it’s that this staff technique cannot be learned. I rely on immense strength to defeat my enemies. If you asked me to demonstrate the same staff moves again right now, I couldn’t do it exactly the same.”
He was telling the truth.
He really didn’t lie to Ning Yu.
Among these cultivation items displayed on the panel, the greatest benefit wasn’t making his staff or whip techniques exquisite, but rather that whenever proficiency increased.
His physical condition improved greatly in all aspects.
For example, in fitness, different equipment trains different parts of the body, but this is different; with one move, it’s a comprehensive improvement.
Ning Yu pressed, “Master, how can I become as immensely strong as you?”
Lin Fan spread his hands and said, “It’s natural, it can’t be trained. Actually, whether you are strong or not, whether you can fight, isn’t important. What’s important is to make your mind sharp. As long as you diligently arm your brain and make yourself smarter, someone like me with mere strength would be insignificant in front of you.”
“Really?” Ning Yu was half-believing.
“Yes, of course. Would your master lie to you? Having only strength makes one a brute,” Lin Fan said.
Ning Yu’s follower had recovered from the earlier display of staff power.
Hearing this.
He looked at Ning Yu helplessly, “My young lady, you mustn’t believe this.”
“Anyone who believes this is an idiot.”
But clearly, his young lady might really be an idiot.
She seemed to have believed it.
“What master says makes sense. I understand,” Ning Yu nodded as if enlightened.
At this moment, Yang Ming arrived with Wang Changhai and Butler Li.
Lin Fan walked up to Ning Yu and patted her shoulder, “If you have time, go to the prison and practice your interrogation techniques. I see you’re lacking in that area, so you must work hard.”
“Yes, Master.”
Ning Yu nodded heavily. Meeting a master willing to teach her, she would definitely put in twelve points of effort to learn.
…
Office.
Lin Fan poured a cup of tea for the Hall Master and Butler Li respectively.
Butler Li’s backside slightly lifted. He was flattered. How could he let the renowned Master Lin serve him tea?
When Wang Changhai found him, he was nervous. Hearing that Lin Fan was looking for him, he was not only nervous but also a little scared.
When Sun Xiao was beheaded, he went to watch. Not only he but even Sun Yaowei went. After watching, Sun Yaowei was so scared that he peed himself and fled Yong’an in a panicked rush, his whereabouts unknown.
“Butler Li, how have you been lately?”
“Thanks to Master Lin, I’m doing alright. To have kept my life and not been implicated in this matter is all thanks to Master Lin’s mercy,” Butler Li said, standing up and bowing respectfully.
Lin Fan smiled. Butler Li was a smart person.
He liked interacting with smart people.
“Butler Li, there’s no need for such formalities. We’re old acquaintances. I’ve called you here to get straight to the point. My Hall Master has taken over the Loyalty Hall and the Fierce Tiger Gang, but his energy is limited, and he is short of capable people around him. I recognize your management talent and have decided to invite you to join. What do you say?” Lin Fan asked.
Plop!
Butler Li knelt on both knees. “I am grateful that Master Lin thinks highly of me. I will certainly do my utmost and use all my abilities to help Gang Leader Wang stabilize the situation.”
Lin Fan said, “Do you understand my intentions?”
Butler Li said, “I only know a little, but not the whole picture. Please, Master Lin, guide me.”
He naturally understood.
Why Lin Fan had eradicated the Loyalty Hall and the Fierce Tiger Gang. To those unaware, it seemed like a struggle between factions. But in his eyes, it was Lin Fan stabilizing order in Yong’an.
From various indications.
Lin Fan, as a squad leader of the Public Security Bureau, had a position that put him in a place to eradicate the upper echelons of the two gangs, gain popular support, and establish a firm foothold in Yong’an. Furthermore, he had eradicated mountain bandits and sea bandits, pushing his prestige to a considerably high level.
This was not personal revenge; it was Lin Fan’s method of progress.
Since ancient times, he who wins the hearts of the people wins the world.
Lin Fan was subtly laying the groundwork during his progress, showing signs of rebellion.
He knew.
He knew it all.
But he couldn’t say it. As a qualified butler, one must not appear to know everything.
Lin Fan smiled, “Stability. I want Yong’an to be stable.”
“Master Lin, I understand.”
“Butler Li, you are a smart person. I know what you’re thinking, but one must have greater ambitions. To others, a gang leader in a small county town may seem high and mighty, but to the great figures outside, it’s nothing. You need to broaden your horizons. If you work hard, your future will be promising.”
“Yes, I understand. I will serve you with all my might.”
Butler Li vowed fervently.
Lin Fan grunted, signaling Butler Li to rise, and continued to paint a grand picture for him. He wasn’t afraid of Butler Li having any ideas; he was only afraid of him having none.
If there were no ideas, he would certainly become complacent.
With ideas, it would spur Wang Changhai forward. If you don’t progress, how can I progress? If you always stick to your small territory, won’t I also be stuck within this small territory?
After sending off Wang Changhai and Butler Li.
He also left the Public Security Bureau.
Now Yong’an was tending towards stability. Constables patrolled the streets, maintaining order, and everything was developing in a good direction. However, to this day, he still harbored suspicions about the identity of Yan Yushu from the brothel.
Teahouse.
Lin Fan drank tea and ate Tiannanxing, with Qin Si respectfully waiting beside him.
“Master Lin, I haven’t dared to slack off for a moment during this period. I can count every fly that has flown in,” Qin Si said.
“And how many flies were there?”
“…”
Qin Si was speechless.
He found Master Lin to be quite humorous at times.
Lin Fan said, “Little Si, you’re a sensible person. You must put your heart into the tasks I assign you. I haven’t arrested you not because you’ve done nothing wrong, but because I want to give you a chance to atone for your past mistakes. If you don’t cherish it, don’t blame Master Lin for being ruthless.”
Hearing this.
Qin Si’s face turned ashen, and he broke out in a cold sweat. With a plop, he knelt on the ground. “Master Lin, how could I not seize the opportunity you’ve given me? I have taken to heart everything you’ve instructed and dare not delay even for a moment.”
“Good. Then tell me, how is the surveillance going?” Lin Fan asked.
Qin Si lowered his head. “Master Lin, I truly haven’t observed anything. Yan Yushu stays in the brothel, never stepping out. Occasionally, the top courtesan leaves, but only for a walk. I haven’t found any problems.”
He had initially thought Master Lin wanted him to monitor Yan Yushu to discipline her severely.
But later, he realized that wasn’t the case at all.
Master Lin must suspect Yan Yushu has issues.
He wants to find her weakness.
Lin Fan frowned slightly, his fingers tapping rhythmically on the table. Each tap transmitted a sound like a heavy hammer pounding Qin Si’s heart.
It gave him an indescribable sense of oppression.
He was genuinely afraid Master Lin would say, “Your work is truly inadequate. What use are you? It would be better to lock you up in prison.”
A moment later.
Lin Fan slowly said, “Little Si, remember this: as long as I don’t say to stop, you must continue to monitor every move of the brothel. Inform me immediately of any news. Do you understand?”
“Master Lin, I understand.” Qin Si suddenly breathed a sigh of relief.
During this period, he had taken Master Lin to the brothel several more times.
To be honest, he was very envious of what he saw.
Lin Fan had touched all the top courtesans.
The one thousand taels spent initially.
He hadn’t spent any more since.
He sometimes wondered, if Sister Yan was so accommodating, it couldn’t be without ulterior motives.
Only when one wants to please or win over someone would they endlessly satisfy that person’s desires.
…
Night.
Rumble! Rumble!
In the courtyard, Lin Fan was striking his body against wooden stakes. These stakes were very effective for the Guiyi Body Refining Method, with steady proficiency increases.
However, every time he practiced, he felt his blood boiling and flowing throughout his body, which felt very comfortable.
It was as if every pore of his body had opened.
A moment later.
Lin Fan took the cloth from Little Fatty and wiped his body.
“Brother, you’ve dealt with the mountain bandits and sea bandits, hasn’t the Imperial Court shown any appreciation?” Little Fatty stood behind Lin Fan, wiping his back, complaining with some indignation.
Lin Fan smiled, “Why the rush? Yong’an is a bit far from the Imperial Court. It takes time for the round trip. By the way, if one day, I have to be transferred and leave Yong’an, will you stay in Yong’an or come with me?”
Little Fatty replied without hesitation, “I’ll definitely come with you, Brother.”
Lin Fan said, “Little Fatty, if that day ever comes, I hope you will stay in Yong’an. Your mother is old and her health is not good; she cannot withstand the journey. When she passes away in the future, you can come find me then. There will always be a place for you by my side.”
Saying this so abruptly made Little Fatty emotional, and the force with which he wiped Lin Fan’s back lessened considerably.
“Brother, I understand.”
“Mm.”
…
Several more days passed.
When Lin Fan arrived at the county office, he found all the yamen runners mobilized. Some yamen runners were holding long poles with brooms attached, cleaning cobwebs and dust from the roof beams and eaves.
Others were splashing water to wash the ground.
Even the stone lions at the entrance were polished until they gleamed.
On the way here, he had seen a group of yamen runners cleaning the streets and grounds, and he had wondered if County Magistrate Zhou had a change of heart and intended to improve Yong’an’s environmental hygiene.
Just then, County Magistrate Zhou rushed out of the yamen, pointing at the surrounding yamen runners, “Clean everything up thoroughly. If anyone slacks off, don’t blame me for being impolite.”
From County Magistrate Zhou’s demeanor and actions.
It was evident that preparations were being made for some kind of reception.
Could it be…
A possibility appeared in Lin Fan’s mind.
“County Magistrate Zhou, why are you so hot-tempered this early in the morning?” Lin Fan asked with a smile.
County Magistrate Zhou’s eyes lit up upon seeing Lin Fan. “Squad Leader Lin, I was just about to look for you. Good news, there’s good news!”
He approached Lin Fan, his face full of smiles.
“I’ve received word that the Imperial Court’s commendation has arrived. The envoy carrying the imperial decree is on their way. I estimate they’ll arrive by tomorrow at the latest.” County Magistrate Zhou said enviously, “Squad Leader Lin, if you rise to prominence, please don’t forget your old friend.”
“So soon?”
Lin Fan was surprised.
Although many days had passed.
In his impression, with the layers of reporting up and down, it would take at least half a month or a month to even see a shadow of it.
County Magistrate Zhou said, “You wouldn’t know this, but the Imperial Court attaches great importance to merit. As soon as any meritorious deeds are reported, they travel day and night without delay. Approvals are fast, and commendations are issued quickly. I heard that His Majesty particularly enjoys matters of merit.”
“Oh.”
He didn’t know what the commendation would be yet, so he wasn’t particularly excited.
County Magistrate Zhou said, “Squad Leader Lin, I was just about to find you for this matter. We need to put on a good show. The constables must wear new clothes, and the county office and the Public Security Bureau must be cleaned thoroughly. After all, the envoy will be returning to report, so leaving a good impression is very necessary.”
At this moment, County Magistrate Zhou was a bit excited.
He had never seen an envoy in his life.
In a small county town like theirs.
What kind of prominent figures could emerge?
What kind of merits could be achieved?
This time, he was benefiting from Lin Fan’s achievements. It was just a pity that he and Li Dian Shi couldn’t claim any credit. It had been agreed upon beforehand, even Li Dian Shi agreed.
“I’ll grant you power and let you do as you please.”
Who knew he would just renege on it?
When Lin Fan returned to the Public Security Bureau.
“Yang Ming, Xu Ming.”
The two immediately came forward.
“Squad Leader, what are your orders?”
Lin Fan thought for a moment and said, “The two of you arrange for the brothers to thoroughly clean the Public Security Bureau inside and out, especially the prison. The smell in there is too strong; find a way to reduce it.”
“Yes, Squad Leader.”
Immediately, Yang Ming asked curiously, “Squad Leader, is something about to happen? It feels like something significant is about to occur.”
Lin Fan said, “It’s not anything major, just that an envoy from the Imperial Court will be coming tomorrow with an imperial decree. We should pay attention to our appearance, so as not to give the impression that we from a small place are unhygienic.”
Shock.
The two widened their eyes, “Squad Leader, is the commendation for you coming?”
They were excited.
They were considered Lin Ge’s confidants; everyone thought so.
If Lin Ge progresses, they progress.
If Lin Ge regresses, they would be demoted.
As the saying goes, one prospers with him, and one suffers with him.
They would absolutely not allow anyone to drag them down.
“Who knows, but regardless, we still need to clean up what needs to be cleaned. Have the brothers be energetic tomorrow,” Lin Fan said.
“Yes.”
The two left in a hurry and immediately called their brothers, informing them of the matter. Upon hearing this, everyone became as if injected with chicken blood, shouting with enthusiasm.
A few days prior, the Squad Leader had given them honor and face, allowing them to walk with their heads held high at home and among their neighbors, never feeling so imposing before.
For those whose families were in business, their fathers had looked down upon them becoming constables, calling them disgraceful.
But after the commendation.
It was completely different.
Their fathers looked at them with relief, and even when meeting friends, they would always mention, “My son has done such and such…”
Especially the red scroll, which was treated as a family heirloom and placed beneath the ancestral tablets, as if to appease the spirits of the ancestors in heaven.
“Our family has produced a remarkable person.”
…
The next day.
At the city gate, the yamen runners on duty stood ramrod straight, their gazes fixed, showing no carelessness.
Under the leadership of County Magistrate Zhou, the yamen contingent had arrived at the city gate early to wait. Even though they hadn’t seen a single soul, they still stared ahead, waiting.
The Public Security Bureau contingent also arrived, with the constables following Lin Fan with their chests puffed out.
“Master,” Ning Yu, standing beside him, said with a hint of impatience, “Should we take a rest nearby? Standing is tiring. Besides, if the envoy is arriving soon, a scout will notify us first. We don’t need to stand here.”
Lin Fan said calmly, “Ning Yu, you cannot have such thoughts. As members of the Public Security Bureau, we must understand the rules. Since everyone is playing by these rules, we cannot disrupt them.”
Ning Yu said “Oh.” She really didn’t take the so-called envoy seriously.
Isn’t he just someone delivering an imperial decree?
What’s the big deal?
Li Dian Shi, standing beside Lin Fan, glanced at him and couldn’t help but roll his eyes.
Rules?
You are the one who breaks the rules the most.
Whoever believes you is a fool.
More and more common people gathered at the city gate, forming a semicircle in the distance, whispering and pointing.
“What major event has happened? Why are people from the county office and the Public Security Bureau all here?”
“Yes, even Master Lin is here.”
“I think some important figure must be coming. Let’s wait here.”
The common people loved to watch a spectacle.
Especially during this recent period, they had been thoroughly entertained, exclaiming that they had eaten their fill.
Time passed in anxious waiting.
Just as County Magistrate Zhou was about to bend down to rub his aching calf.
The sound of urgent horse hooves approached from afar.
Everyone’s spirits lifted, and their gazes collectively turned forward. They saw two figures riding steeds, approaching at lightning speed. The riders were wearing official robes, appearing very imposing.
The two scouts rushed into the city and suddenly pulled on their reins. The horses neighed and reared their front hooves, stabilizing themselves. The riders shouted loudly:
“The envoy is three li away and will arrive shortly.”
After speaking, they turned their horses around and galloped away again to report back.
“Quick, quick, adjust your hats, maintain order.”
County Magistrate Zhou hastily adjusted his black gauze cap and official robe. Facing the approaching envoy, he dared not be the slightest bit careless.
Other officials were also the same.
Lin Fan, watching this, felt a mix of emotions. The officialdom of civil officials was truly difficult to navigate.
Li Dian Shi whispered to Lin Fan, “The two who just arrived were not arranged by Anzhou Prefecture; they were sent by the Imperial Court. The envoy who delivers the decree represents the Emperor’s face, Squad Leader Lin. This commendation is likely extraordinary.”
County Magistrate Zhou’s great attention clearly indicated he had also realized this.
If someone from Anzhou Prefecture were to read the commendation, there would be no need for such a fuss. But now that an envoy from the Imperial Court was coming, how could a mere county magistrate like him not pay attention?
Li Dian Shi and County Magistrate Zhou initially had the same thought.
That is, the credit for this achievement would definitely be divided among those above. If even thirty percent reached Lin Fan, they would be considered benevolent.
However, looking at the current situation.
It was far more than thirty percent; it was likely that no one would claim undue credit.
Could it be that they had all reformed?
Ning Yu smiled brightly, “Master, I guarantee that this commendation will be significant.”
“Do you know?” Lin Fan smiled.
Ning Yu said, “Of course, I know. Envoys sent by the Imperial Court carry great commendations. Moreover, as far as I know, the current Emperor’s greatest joy is seeing the memorial documents requesting rewards sent from various regions. Usually, as long as they are not delivered when the Emperor is in a bad mood, they often result in great rewards.”
Lin Fan asked curiously, “Ning Yu, who is your father?”
“Master, I don’t want to say. I don’t want my identity to create distance between us. Rest assured, Master, this disciple you’ve taken is very capable, and there’s nothing I can’t solve,” Ning Yu said, lifting her chin confidently.
“No matter how capable you are, you’re still hiding things from me,” Lin Fan said with a smile.
While he was casually chatting with Ning Yu.
“They’re here,”
County Magistrate Zhou exclaimed excitedly.
Everyone looked.
On the official road in the distance, a procession appeared. It wasn’t large in scale, but it was quite imposing.
The procession reached the city gate and passed through.
County Magistrate Zhou took a deep breath, stepped forward, bowed deeply, and said with utmost respect.
“Your subordinate, Zhou Wenyuan, County Magistrate of Yong’an County, along with the officials of the county office, respectfully welcome the envoy. You have had a arduous journey.”
The envoy looked indifferently at County Magistrate Zhou, showing no intention of dismounting. His gaze swept around, nodding with satisfaction, and then fell upon Lin Fan, who was carrying an iron rod.
He remained nonchalant, showing no particular emotion.
But when his gaze fell on Ning Yu, he was suddenly startled. However, he sensed a warning in Ning Yu’s eyes and quickly recovered.
He then dismounted, coughed a few times.
“Rise,”
The envoy paused and continued, “May I know who is Lin Fan, the Deputy Squad Leader of the Yong’an Public Security Bureau?”
County Magistrate Zhou quickly replied, “Answering the envoy, this is our Public Security Bureau’s Deputy Squad Leader Lin Fan.”
The envoy looked at Lin Fan.
Lin Fan also looked at the envoy.
Logically speaking, as an envoy carrying an imperial decree to a small county town, even a county magistrate, let alone a squad leader, should revere him and greet him.
However, this Deputy Squad Leader Lin seemed to lack proper etiquette.
Merely nodding and smiling, could that be considered a greeting?
Ning Yu said, “Esteemed Envoy, my master annihilated the mountain bandits of Stone Dragon Mountain and the sea bandits of Tianxian Island. The commendation from the Imperial Court must be very substantial, right?”
As soon as she spoke.
County Magistrate Zhou’s face changed drastically. Presumptuous! How dare she speak to the envoy like that, and even dare to inquire about the Imperial Court’s commendation, this is simply… Oh, it’s Ning Yu asking, then it’s fine.
A well-connected person, and who knows how powerful this connection is.
“Master!?”
The envoy, who had reached his current position, must have exceptional reading comprehension skills to have survived.
The envoy smiled, “Naturally. Deputy Squad Leader Lin has performed great service; the commendation will certainly not be stingy.”
Everyone present secretly looked at Ning Yu.
As long as they weren’t foolish.
They could all tell that this envoy knew Ning Yu and was aware of her background, otherwise he wouldn’t have replied like that.
The envoy said, “Deputy Squad Leader Lin, please lead the way to the Public Security Bureau. The Imperial decree will be read there.”
County Magistrate Zhou was anxious.
Huh?
Directly to the Public Security Bureau? Not to the county office?
He had personally supervised the preparations yesterday precisely to leave a good impression on the envoy.
There was nothing he could do.
He didn’t dare to resist.
Soon, everyone moved in a grand procession towards the Public Security Bureau.
The onlookers understood the intention of the envoy; they were here to commend Master Lin. Their hearts were filled with joy and excitement.
He should be severely rewarded.
Considering all the things Master Lin had done, which one wasn’t for their sake? Look at how good the current order in Yong’an is; it was all achieved by Master Lin’s thunderous actions.
If the Imperial Court didn’t commend him, they would be the first to object.
At this time, the constables were very curious, wondering what kind of commendation the Imperial Court had for their Squad Leader.
Let alone them,
Even County Magistrate Zhou and Li Dian Shi were the same, their hearts itching with curiosity, wishing they could open it right now and see the contents.
At the entrance of the Public Security Bureau.
The envoy, holding his official robe, walked up the steps, turned to face the crowd below. A follower carried a tray to the envoy’s side, on which lay a scroll covered with bright yellow silk.
The envoy stepped forward and respectfully took out the scroll from beneath the silk.
Holding the scroll, he slowly unrolled it.
Before the reading began, County Magistrate Zhou sensibly knelt down, ready to listen.
The envoy glanced at County Magistrate Zhou, cleared his throat, and said in a loud voice:
“By the mandate of Heaven, the Emperor decrees:
I, who bear the mandate of Heaven and rule over all lands, reward merit and punish transgressions, which is the guiding principle of the Imperial Court.
Now, Lin Fan, Squad Leader of the Yong’an County Public Security Bureau in Jiangzhou, possesses a loyal and brave heart, faces danger without fear, steps forward boldly, employs strategy and tact, and fights valiantly…”
The envoy read with clear diction.
When they reached this point, the constables’ faces turned red. Their Lin Squad Leader had finally appeared in the Emperor’s sight.
As soldiers under their Squad Leader.
They felt honored.
They were equally proud.
Ning Yu listened to this, her lips curving into a smile, happy and expectant.
The common people watching also heard a commendation decree for the first time and naturally listened attentively.
The decree continued.
“Victorious in both campaigns, with outstanding achievements, you have, through your own strength, protected this region, relieved the suffering of the people, and upheld the majesty of the Imperial Court. Your merit is worthy of recognition, and your ambition is commendable!”
County Magistrate Zhou and Li Dian Shi were envious.
How they wished their names could appear in this text.
But alas.
If they had known that no one would embezzle the credit for bandit suppression, they would have knelt and begged Master Lin to be merciful and include their names.
The only way their names could appear in the decree was if they committed an unforgivable crime, were personally interrogated by the Emperor, and were marked with his vermilion brush.
“Execute! Execute! Execute!”
That was the only way.
Suddenly, the envoy’s voice rose, strong and resonant.
Everyone held their breath.
They knew the important part had finally arrived.
Even Lin Fan took a slight breath. So far, the path of progress had been relatively smooth, and this was the first step forward.
“The Imperial Court is deeply pleased. To honor the loyal and valiant, and to promote the talented for the use of the state, special rewards are hereby granted according to merit.”
Everyone strained their ears, fearing they would miss a single word.
“Lin Fan is promoted to Chief Squad Leader of the Anzhou Prefecture Public Security Bureau, responsible for overseeing the security of the entire prefecture.”
Boom!
It was like thunder echoing.
Li Dian Shi and County Magistrate Zhou looked up abruptly, their gazes fixed on Lin Fan, their faces filled with astonishment.
Especially Li Dian Shi, whose expression was one of disbelief, with an inexpressible emotion surging in his heart.
He hadn’t expected Lin Fan to be transferred to Anzhou Prefecture.
And to be promoted to Chief Squad Leader.
Anzhou Prefecture had a total of four squad leaders, each in charge of a city district. The position of Chief Squad Leader existed, but since the previous one passed away due to illness, the position had remained vacant.
Until now, the Anzhou Prefecture Public Security Bureau had been managed by the Assistant Prefect concurrently.
Now that Lin Fan was promoted to Chief Squad Leader, it meant the Assistant Prefect’s authority had been curtailed.
At the same time, his official rank in Anzhou Prefecture was only below that of the Prefect and the Commander.
Thinking of this, Li Dian Shi sighed in his heart. He hadn’t expected that in such a short time since Lin Fan joined the Public Security Bureau, he had taken a path that took him decades, even surpassing it.
Just when everyone thought the commendation was over.
Unexpectedly, the envoy’s voice rose again.
And… ?
“Specially granted the honorary title of ‘Loyal and Brave Colonel’.”
As soon as this was said.
County Magistrate Zhou and Prefect Li exchanged glances, their eyes filled with increasing disbelief.
Are you kidding me?
Although the Loyal and Brave Colonel had no real power, it was a Sixth Rank Official position.
With this Loyal and Brave Colonel position.
Lin Fan would not need to salute the Prefect and Commander of Anzhou Prefecture, but could directly communicate as an equal, referring to himself as a subordinate.
This meant that the two former local emperors of Anzhou Prefecture had now become three local emperors.
The envoy’s voice had not yet stopped.
No way?
There’s more?
“Awarded a thousand taels of silver… and a specially crafted steel Wild Goose Feather Dagger.”
Whoosh!
Prefect Li and County Magistrate Zhou suddenly breathed a sigh of relief. So it was a material reward. They really dared not imagine if there were more official titles to be awarded.
Wouldn’t Squad Leader Lin become even more tyrannical and lawless when he went to Anzhou Prefecture?
Thinking of this, they mourned for the scoundrels in Anzhou Prefecture.
Your nemesis is coming.
After finishing the proclamation, the envoy closed the imperial decree, looked at Lin Fan with piercing eyes, and said with a smile, “Colonel Lin, receive the decree and give thanks.”
Under everyone’s gaze, Lin Fan stepped forward, “Your subordinate receives the decree and thanks His Majesty for his heavenly grace.”
Courtesy phrases still needed to be said.
He was currently on a path of progress, and he definitely had to give face to the Imperial Court.
He most enjoyed confronting those tyrannical and evil forces. Every time he defeated them, he felt a great sense of satisfaction.
He felt he hadn’t come to this world in vain.
“Colonel Lin, a young talent, I hope you will cherish this honor and not fail His Majesty’s grace,” the envoy said with emotion. He did not expect to see such a young person receive such imperial favor.
As long as nothing unexpected happens, Colonel Lin’s future achievements are limitless.
“Mm.”
Lin Fan nodded, took the imperial decree, and then took the Wild Goose Feather Dagger handed by the envoy. He drew the sword from its sheath, and the silver blade gleamed brightly, with inscriptions on it.
‘Imperial Gift’
There were words on the other side as well.
‘The World’s Universe’
This was a good sword, stylish, and he liked it very much.
At this moment, County Magistrate Zhou and Prefect Li recovered and exclaimed, “Congratulations to Colonel Lin on his promotion.”
The address had changed.
Colonel Lin.
It was only natural to address him by his highest official rank, which was perfectly fine.
The onlookers, the common people, also cheered.
They were happy for Master Lin’s promotion, but some common people were dejected and reluctant, because they heard that their Master Lin was being transferred to Anzhou Prefecture.
In other words, he was leaving Yong’an.
The reluctant common people looked at others who were so happy and wanted to punch them on the head. What were they happy about? Didn’t they hear that Master Lin was being transferred away?
County Magistrate Zhou said, “Envoy, you must be tired from your journey. This subordinate has prepared food and wine to welcome the envoy and congratulate Colonel Lin. Please…”
Before he could finish speaking, he was interrupted by the envoy.
“No, I have urgent matters to attend to and need to return immediately to report. Please forgo the welcoming reception,” the envoy said, waving his hand, and then looked at Lin Fan, “Colonel Lin, please hand over the matters in Yong’an as soon as possible and report to Anzhou Prefecture.”
“All right, thank you, envoy,” Lin Fan replied.
“You are too kind. It is my duty. Goodbye.”
The envoy arrived in a hurry and left in a hurry.
County Magistrate Zhou escorted him all the way.
Prefect Li said with a smile, “Colonel Lin, congratulations.”
Envy, he was truly envious.
He was so envious he almost wanted to die.
Lin Fan looked at the imperial decree in his hand, then at the Wild Goose Feather Dagger, and said with a smile, “Prefect Li, what position are you being transferred to in Anzhou Prefecture?”
Prefect Li felt awkward but politely replied, “Deputy Squad Leader of the Anzhou Public Security Bureau.”
Don’t look at him, from being a Prefect in Yong’an to a Deputy Squad Leader in Anzhou Prefecture.
But his official position had been elevated.
One county, one prefecture.
Naturally, they were different.
Could the weight of a county official and a prefectural official be the same?
“Congratulations,” Lin Fan said with a smile.
Prefect Li blinked, “Colonel Lin, please stop teasing me.”
“Not at all. How can this be teasing? This is a genuine congratulation.” Lin Fan reached out and patted Prefect Li’s shoulder, “We are all from Yong’an. When we get to Anzhou Prefecture, you will follow me closely. I promise you won’t be bullied, and further progress is also possible.”
Family members, I, Li Zhengdao, am almost overwhelmed.
“Thank you, Colonel Lin, for your support. Your subordinate will definitely remember your orders,” Prefect Li said.
His identity had changed.
He recalled back then, when Lin Fan came to his yamen with an iron rod, he sat there with a stern expression and imposing authority. Now he had become his subordinate.
Was his progress really necessary?
He regretted it.
He truly regretted it.
If he had stayed in Yong’an, he would still be the head honcho.
“Master, I’ll go with you,” Ning Yu said.
“Nonsense, as the Prefect of Yong’an, how can you just say you’ll go?” Lin Fan reprimanded.
Ning Yu shrunk her head and said, “Master, being the Prefect was just part of the process for me. Prefect Li was promoted to make room for me. If I leave with you, this Prefect position can be given to Squad Leader Song.”
“Ah? There’s a benefit for me too?” Squad Leader Song was surprised.
He had been a spectator throughout, witnessing everything.
Lin Fan’s great progress, to be honest, left him stunned.
The speed of promotion was too fast.
Unimaginable.
Ning Yu said, “Squad Leader Song, you are a veteran of the Public Security Bureau and have made great contributions to Yong’an’s stability. It’s time for you to be promoted. In my eyes, no one else can be the Prefect of Yong’an now but you.”
Lin Fan said, “What she said makes sense. I’m not at ease leaving the Public Security Bureau to others. I am at ease with you taking over as Prefect.”
Prefect Li, standing beside them, had a strange expression. As they conversed, he felt more and more like a rookie in officialdom.
What was Ning Yu’s background?
So arrogant?
I spent money trying to get promoted, only to find out it was to make way for you.
Couldn’t you just not say it?
Do you know how many connections he pulled, how many people he contacted, and how many good things he said to find the person who would take the money before finally getting connected?
At this moment.
Someone in the crowd of common people shouted, “Master Lin, are you leaving Yong’an?”
The cheers of the common people stopped abruptly.
Everyone came back to their senses. That’s right, Master Lin was promoted to Head of the Anzhou Public Security Bureau, which meant Master Lin was leaving Yong’an.
Lin Fan looked at the common people and slowly said, “Fellow villagers, this is an appointment from the Imperial Court. Even if I, Lin Fan, wanted to stay in Yong’an, I cannot disobey. Moreover, Yong’an is now on the right track, and all sorts of evil forces have been dismantled. However, in other places, there are still many common people suffering from oppression.”
“I, Lin Fan, studied the law diligently, aspiring to be a constable, to eliminate these malignant tumors.”
“I hope my fellow villagers can understand.”
Lin Fan clasped his fists, very sincerely.
The common people looked at Lin Fan with reluctance, with many things they wanted to say, but at this moment, they understood that Master Lin was right. Yong’an was very stable now, and local ruffians had disappeared without a trace.
It was already quite good.
It was something many places could not even imagine.
One commoner said, “It’s right for Master Lin to go to other places. Master Lin is like the scorching sun, needing to spread his radiance everywhere. I have relatives living in Anzhou Prefecture. He told me that it’s very dark there and needs someone like Master Lin to sweep away the darkness.”
Hmm…
This villager speaks well.
“Yes, what he said is right. We are reluctant, but we cannot let local ruffians run rampant elsewhere.”
“We must let those local ruffians taste Master Lin’s iron fist.”
“Master Lin, we support you.”
Lin Fan smiled and said, “Thank you all, my fellow villagers, for your support. I, Lin Fan, will never forget you. No matter where I am, Yong’an will always be my home.”
In an instant.
The atmosphere at the scene became lively.
Lin Fan waved his hand, letting everyone leave, and then returned to the Public Security Bureau.
He had to leave.
But he still had some matters to attend to.
He had to arrange everything properly before he could leave with peace of mind.
At this moment, in the courtyard, all the constables looked at Lin Fan with complex emotions, but all their complexity merged into reluctance. They all wished to follow Squad Leader Lin forever.
But they understood that this was impossible.
Facing these gazes, Lin Fan didn’t know what to say for a moment.
He was definitely going to bring some people with him.
They must have made arrangements in Anzhou Prefecture to deal with him.
The first move would definitely be to marginalize him.
Having someone who works but doesn’t listen is a normal tactic, and even if they listen, they can still cause trouble behind the scenes. It would definitely take some time to integrate the Public Security Bureau there.
“Squad Leader Song, this reward money will be the reserve fund for the Public Security Bureau. If I’m not around in the future and something happens, you’ll have money to use,” Lin Fan said.
Squad Leader Song said, “Won’t you keep some?”
Lin Fan waved his hand, “No need. I’m not interested in silver.”
He was truly not interested, not lying.
With his strength, getting money was extremely easy. Moreover, which wealthy family didn’t have someone who had committed a crime? If he went directly to them, they would be concerned and ask if he had taken enough.
And at this moment.
In the city, the news spread like wildfire.
The common people spread the news of Master Lin being promoted to Head of the Anzhou Public Security Bureau and the title of Loyal and Brave Colonel to everyone’s ears.
If one were to ask who was most concerned about Lin Fan.
It would undoubtedly be Qin Si.
And Yan Yushu from the brothel.
And there’s Yan Yushu from the brothel.
