Hearing someone submit a memorial on Zhang Poyue's behalf, everyone present, Fang Yun included, was shocked.
Fang Yun looked at the Metropolitan Graduate general in surprise. If there were any matter of utmost urgency, Zhang Poyue's Official Seal could directly reach the Academy's Temple of Sages, or even transmit a message to all officials. Yet Zhang Poyue had actually sent a lieutenant general to submit a memorial in his stead. Could something major have happened?
The Empress Dowager also seemed somewhat tense and hurriedly asked, "What matter does Beloved Minister Zhang need presented on his behalf?"
The general's expression was somewhat unusual as he recited in a stiff, measured tone, "General Zhang said that whether Xiang Prefecture or any other prefecture, all hold equal status within Jing Kingdom. Void Sage Fang's fief lies in Xiang Prefecture, deep in the Human Race's heartland. Being overly settled in one corner is a loss for the Human Race. In General Zhang's view, Void Sage Fang should properly take command in Mi Prefecture. Not only could he resist the Grass Barbarians, he could also disrupt that old thief's... cough... Mi Prefecture, which is solid as an iron plate. Finally, General Zhang proposes that Void Sage Fang's one-county fief should be established in Gu County of Mi Prefecture."
As the general spoke, everyone present was as bewildered and absentminded as Fang Yun, completely unable to understand what medicine Zhang Poyue was selling in his gourd. No matter how one looked at it, there was no need to have someone submit such a matter on his behalf. Yet when the words "Gu County" were spoken, many officials could not help bursting into laughter.
Fang Yun did not know whether to laugh or cry. Gu County in Mi Prefecture was Zhang Poyue's hometown!
Fang Yun finally understood.