When had Chen Wei ever not wanted a promotion?
What Immortal Official in the Heavenly Court did not want to climb higher?
But the Heavenly Court had its rules. The tree that rose above the forest was sure to be battered by the wind.
Rise too fast on unsteady foundations, and you could end up straining your balls.
So the key to promotion was steadiness.
It was not that he would not advance.
He would advance gradually, slowly, according to plan.
Pick up a little military merit, piggyback on a few achievements at the Government Office, and even join competitions held by the Heavenly Court's various departments for a participation prize. Taken individually, none of his accomplishments would stand out. No one could find fault, and no one would think he was stealing the limelight.
But when evaluation time came and everything was considered together...
Chen Wei would be the best choice for all-round development.
Add Yang Chan's connections, Taibai Jinxing's patronage, and the Great Heavenly Venerable's favor, and when the official seal finally landed in his hands, it would be as natural as water flowing into a channel. That was having the right timing and terrain.
At that thought, everything clicked into place for Chen Wei.
He slipped an arm around Yang Chan's shoulders and drew his wife into his embrace.
Yang Chan had only recently given birth, then endured the jolting journey with the army. Weariness seeped into her bones. She did not resist, simply leaned against Chen Wei's chest and shifted around until she found the most comfortable position.
"Chan'er." Chen Wei rested his chin against her hair and sighed. "If I hadn't met you, how could I have all this glory today?"
Her eyes half closed, Yang Chan gave a delicate huff through her nose. "Hmph!