After the Martial Arts Examination ended, life returned to calm.
Chen Qing's life remained the same three-point line: training, patrol duty, home. It was so regular that not a ripple disturbed it.
That day, the moment he arrived at the River Bureau, Cheng Ming hurried over. "A Qing, come with me to see the Chief River Commissioner! He's in the administrative office ahead and specifically asked to see you!"
"See me?"
Chen Qing was somewhat surprised.
Cheng Ming smiled and patted his shoulder. "Look sharp. It's a good thing."
Cheng Ming led the way, and the two soon arrived at the administrative office at the heart of the River Bureau.
Chen Qing straightened his back and strode over the high threshold.
The room was spacious yet somewhat dim. Behind a large sandalwood desk, Ke Yunqi, dressed in an official robe embroidered with blue herons, sat reading through the Archives.
Chen Qing clasped his fists. "This subordinate, Chen Qing, pays respects to the Chief River Commissioner."
Hearing him, Ke Yunqi raised his head. His gaze fell on Chen Qing, and he smiled. "Not bad. I didn't expect our River Bureau to produce such a talent."
Chen Qing humbly replied, "My lord flatters me. This subordinate was merely fortunate."
"Could luck alone have earned you such high marks in the Martial Arts Examination without genuine skill?"
Ke Yunqi waved a hand, his eyes carrying appreciation. "No need for false modesty. Cheng Ming told me all about you. You are Master Zhou of Zhou Academy's disciple, and during your part-time appointment, you performed your duties with loyalty and diligence. Now, our River Bureau happens to lack talents like you."
His tone shifted. "Are you willing to formally serve as a River Bureau Inspector? You would be solely responsible for inspecting dangerous stretches of