Zhao An was so thrilled at the prospect of working at the County Yamen that his spirits were more vibrant than the spring blossoms themselves. Had he the time, he would have loved to hire a small boat to row across Slender West Lake, or stand by the banks of the Grand Canal, shouting at the top of his lungs about his drive and ambition, or perhaps something about how his fate was in his own hands, not the heavens'.
How could he not be excited? He had gone from the countryside to the Tax Bureau, and now to the County Yamen—all in just over three months. This trajectory was no slower than a rocket.
He was truly, deeply grateful for Master Ji’s patronage. He secretly reminded himself that once he reached the Revenue Department, he must work diligently, show his best self, and strive to resolve his primary concern: his official status. By the end of the year, he hoped to be known as Secretary Zhao, the kind of person the Magistrate would bring along everywhere. Even if it were just to carry the Magistrate's bag or open the car door, that would be enough.
Chapter 16