Entropy Increase

Dongting Green Waves, Yueyang Ancient City.

In the depths of winter, a light rain fell on Heavenly Street.

Beneath an oiled-paper umbrella stood a young man in white robes with short hair.

The hurried young man arrived at a simple residence bearing the sign: "Yueyang Government Training Center."

He placed his oiled-paper umbrella in a personal wooden cubby by the entrance.

"Morning, Brother Lu!"

Hearing the voice behind him, Lu Qinghou turned around and returned the greeting with a smile and a cupped-hand salute. "So it's Zi Xing. They're announcing our assignments today. I wonder where I'll be posted?"

The young man in gray smiled. "Since we're here, we might as well make the best of it. We're all here to serve the people."

"That's true. Fame and fortune are nothing but passing clouds. I should learn more from you, Zi Xing." Lu Qinghou spoke with some embarrassment.

A moment later, the two arrived at the classroom.

There were three hundred people present, all first-term students of the Yueyang Government Accelerated Training Class.

Zhou Li looked at the energetic young students and offered them encouragement.

"A total of ninety-three of you passed the graduation examination this time. Those who did not pass may repeat the term. Whether you graduate or not, your lives are only just beginning. Never forget your oath. Once you take up your posts, keep studying and keep pace with the times."

Clap, clap, clap! The students hurriedly applauded.

"I hope you do not fall prey to bureaucratic disease. Never forget that you are one of the people. You are not here to shepherd the people on behalf of Heaven, nor are you the people's parental officials. You are children of the people, and you must treat them as children honor their parents.

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