Xiao Ming's face darkened at those words, anger flaring within him.
He knew Fang Qian was deliberately making things difficult for him, but for the sake of his subordinates' futures, he swallowed his anger and forced a smile. "Lord Fang, these men have all undergone the Ministry of Justice's rigorous screening. There's absolutely nothing wrong with them. Could you perhaps make an exception?"
Fang Qian sneered, his voice edged with mockery. "Lord Xiao, rules are rules. I wouldn't dare bend the law for personal favors. Besides, that wasn't what you said back in Shanghe City."
Xiao Ming was left speechless, cursing inwardly. This brat really does hold a grudge!
He forced an ugly smile and lowered his voice. "Lord Fang, I was in the wrong back then. I apologize. Could you please show some mercy?"
Fang Qian remained unmoved, his expression cold. "Lord Xiao, please watch your words. This is the Ministry of Personnel. I'm merely following procedure."
Xiao Ming ground his teeth in anger, but there was nothing he could do.
He knew Fang Qian was determined to block him.
For every day Fang Qian refused to budge, his dozen or so subordinates would have to wait another day to become permanent staff.
How was he supposed to explain that to them?
He had boasted that he would guarantee their appointments went smoothly.
"Fang Qian, come at me if you have the guts! What kind of man takes it out on my subordinates?" Xiao Ming finally lost his patience and pointed at Fang Qian in fury.
Fang Qian showed no fear, replying coldly, "Lord Xiao, I'm simply handling official business according to the rules. And the Ministry of Personnel is no place for you to cause trouble."
Xiao Ming's face turned livid. Seeing the growing crowd around them, he