At last, Xiao Canglan spoke.
A trace of complexity flashed through his eyes.
"Very well."
"Since you insist on leaving, the Immortal Dynasty is no heartless place. By the authority to make decisions at my discretion granted to me by the Immortal Dynasty, I approve your resignation."
Qing Chen's mind jolted. He lowered his head further, not daring to reveal the slightest reaction.
Xiao Canglan continued in a strictly official tone, "Effective immediately, you are relieved of your authority as acting Qiongzhou Governor and Qiong-Pacifying Senior General. All affairs of Qiongzhou will temporarily be managed jointly by Prefecture Vice-Governor Qing Xuansu and Regional Inspector Yan Ming."
This had been expected.
"However." Xiao Canglan changed tack, his gaze settling on Qing Chen with an almost tangible weight and a hint of something indescribable. "You pacified Qiongzhou and purged the traitors within. Those are merits, after all, and cannot go unrewarded."
He paused briefly, but continued nonetheless. "I hereby grant you the honorary rank of Evil-Slaying Grandee, subordinate third rank, with the corresponding fortune stipend, and permit you to return to your fief in the Gouwu Sea to cultivate in seclusion."
Evil-Slaying Grandee? Subordinate third rank? Qing Chen felt a little pleasantly surprised.
Who cares whether it's an honorary rank or not?
The fortune power of the subordinate third rank already allowed him to use High-Grade Fortune Spirit Crystals.
It looks like all those arrangements worked!
[By regulation: those who are not Third-Rank Immortal Officials of Great Jin may not obtain or exchange for High-Grade Fortune Spirit Crystals, nor can they refine them.]
They already contained genuine "fortune rules traces," which were exceptionally pure and could effectively enhance the growth of other rules powers.
"However."
Xiao Canglan's voice abruptly deepened, taking on a warning edge. "Since you receive an immortal stipend from