An Edict Does Not Extend to the Former Dynasty

Luo Pei had been ordered to manage the floodwaters. Though he had received the Emperor's commendation, there was still no shortage of official business to hand over and wrap up. This day, after sorting all the documents into order, he returned home.

The Former Wei had reformed official salaries, declaring, "Since ancient times, official stipends have accounted for two parts in ten of the nation's revenue."

The salaries of all officials had been raised, and the Zheng Dynasty followed this practice. Luo Pei was Principal Third Rank, with an annual stipend of a thousand shi of grain, gifts of silk in spring and autumn, and six qing of vegetable fields. His income was not low; though upright and incorruptible, he was not poor. When he returned home, he saw the steward waiting at the entrance. Upon seeing him, the steward said, "Master, a guest has come to call!"

Luo Pei could not help but be startled. Who would come calling at such a time? Stepping down from the ox-cart, he asked, "Who is it?"

The moment he entered, he saw Provincial Graduate Fu Zimo emerge with a smile. Fu Zimo bowed. "This student pays respects to you, my lord!"

Luo Pei knew him. Smiling, he said, "So it is you. What instructions does the prince have?"

Fu Zimo looked relaxed as he said, "His Highness is greatly pleased and has no instructions. He merely ordered this student to deliver some seasonal produce."

Luo Pei looked it over. They were indeed seasonal goods, nothing rare or precious, so he had Fu Zimo convey his thanks. Watching him leave, Luo Pei could not help but let out a heavy breath.

When Luo Pei's wife, Luo Shenshi, saw this, she could not help asking, "What is it? You are unhappy?"

Luo Pei still