"Third Master, what about me?"
Qi Dazhu, who had been kowtowing alongside him, looked utterly lost.
Before Wang Yan could speak, Zhu Qi beside them said, "He can follow me. Brother Wang, you know Dazhu has talent. Long arms, a narrow waist—he's exactly the sort of material our lot needs."
Wang Yan cocked his chin at Qi Dazhu. "What do you think?"
"I just want to follow Third Master!"
"Then follow Seventh Master. Work hard, make something of yourself, and you'll bring honor to your ancestors. Your family will be able to live well too. And once you're in the Jinyi Guard, you can help me frame... ah, ptooey, help me investigate treacherous villains, so they cannot throw Great Ming's realm into disorder or wound His Majesty's sacred heart."
Lu Fang shook his head with an amused smile, not taking the bit about framing people seriously. What a joke—this was a basic skill for officials. If one could not even manage that, what kind of official could one be? How could one engage in political struggle? How else could one rise through the ranks?
"Fine, then it's settled," Lu Fang said. "In three days, report to the Ministry of Personnel. Someone will naturally lead you to your post. For these next few days, stay here. Once you assume office, you can live at the county yamen. If you do not wish to, find a broker and rent a place."
Wang Yan repeatedly shook his head. "I'll see after I take office. It wouldn't do to spend my own money..."
"I rather hope you don't spend any money." With his hands behind his back, Lu Fang walked over and looked at the pot tea. "This is from Shaanxi or Gansu, isn't it?"
"Your Excellency is truly well-informed. That is indeed the