“Mr. Chen, according to the current dynasty's regulations, there is generally no need to pay for reclaiming wasteland.
However, the land you've occupied is too vast, and it will affect the allotted fields of several nearby villages.
Moreover, the landscape here is picturesque, with beautiful scenery that's breathtaking.
The current dynasty stipulates that wasteland sales are half a guan per mu, but you've purchased a significant amount.
Therefore, I will sell it to you at 450 wen per mu. What do you think, Mr. Chen?”
The County Magistrate smiled, his eyes glancing constantly at the figures not far away.
Not far away, Wei Zheng was conversing with a middle-aged scholar-like figure.
“450 wen is too high, County Magistrate Wu, please lower the price.”
“Lord Wei, the Lone Wolf Gang has been completely destroyed.
As you instructed, I've let One-Eyed Wolf go!”
“You've done well, Lord Fu, but such a grave matter occurred under your jurisdiction.
This year's performance evaluation will likely only be at the “good” level at most.
You must work diligently during the upcoming autumn harvest, Lord Fu!”
Wei Zheng's eyes flashed with a hint of coldness as he addressed the County Magistrate, providing a gentle reprimand.
Before coming here, Wei Zheng had already investigated.
This County Magistrate Fu had obtained his position through recommendations, and his capabilities weren't strong.
He was easily swayed by others, prone to believing them readily.
However, he wasn't entirely bad, as he disliked unnecessary fuss and had no appetite for corruption.
Therefore, his annual evaluations usually hovered around the average level.
If not for Chen Fan's extraordinary rise under County Magistrate Fu's jurisdiction.
The Lone Wolf Gang alone would have brought County Magistrate Fu's evaluation down to the "inferior" level.
One must remember, if a County Magistrate receives three consecutive "inferior" ratings.
Or accumulates five "inferior" evaluations, they will be removed from office.
If the emperor is dissatisfied, he might even launch a thorough investigation.
If any wrongdoing is uncovered, it wouldn't simply be removal from office, but imprisonment.
“This subordinate thanks Lord Wei for his guidance!”
County Magistrate Fu's face lit up upon hearing this, expressing gratitude to Wei Zheng.
He couldn't believe that despite such a major incident under his watch, he could still be rated "good."
Indeed, Lord Wei was truly discerning.
Previous officials responsible for evaluations had never recognized his abilities.
Wei Zheng's lips twitched, a dark line appearing on his forehead.
Could this guy not understand a hint?
If not for the Lone Wolf Gang's case involving the illicit gathering of incense offerings.
Just based on Chen Fan's extraordinary contribution under his jurisdiction, the Ministry of Personnel would have guaranteed him an "excellent" evaluation.
The curved-plough, capable of doubling farming capacity, is a national treasure.
This guy couldn't see such a monumental achievement!
“Lord Fu, did you notice anything while passing by Zhao Village just now?”
County Magistrate Fu was momentarily taken aback, his eyes brightening as he understood.
He immediately nodded repeatedly, patting his chest and said.
“Lord Wei, rest assured, this subordinate will have people keep a close eye on those monsters.
However, please inform the young master not to use too many of them.
Otherwise, I won't be able to conceal it. Besides, what's so good about those ox demons and fish demons.
Sometime later, I'll invite you and the young princess to the Wan Hua Tower in the county seat.
The fox girls and cat girls there are well-educated and refined, they're the top-tier!”
“You, you, you, you're too much!”
Wei Zheng was so furious that his beard trembled. He pointed a finger at County Magistrate Fu.
After a long while, he managed to utter a single sentence.
But County Magistrate Fu kept smiling and said.
“It's all thanks to your guidance, Lord Wei. Of course, I am doing well!”
“Hmph, you... Forget it!”
Wei Zheng flicked his sleeve and turned to leave.
He was afraid that if they continued talking, he couldn't help but slap this guy to death.
Wei Zheng decided to write a report as soon as he got back. This County Magistrate must be replaced.
Also, how could someone like him be given an “excellent” evaluation!
“Lord Wei, don't leave!”
Chen Fan, having taken his first steps on the path of cultivation, possessed sharp senses.
Moreover, since Wei Zheng and County Magistrate Fu weren't far away, Chen Fan had overheard their conversation.
He was speechless for a moment. This County Magistrate was a rare breed!
Even Emperor Li Er of the Tang Dynasty was helpless against Wei Zheng's stubborn nature.
He would avoid Wei Zheng whenever he wanted to have a little fun.
County Magistrate Fu actually invited Wei Zheng to visit the Tian Xiang Tower, incredible!
“County Magistrate Wu, has County Magistrate Fu always been this bold?”
Chen Fan looked at County Magistrate Fu's retreating figure with admiration. He also understood it was perfectly normal.
If the County Magistrate of Qing Shui County were a capable and talented individual.
The mastermind behind the scenes wouldn't dare to brazenly gather incense offerings under his jurisdiction.
“Haha, Mr. Chen, 430 wen is the limit of my authority!”
County Magistrate Wu chuckled as he changed the subject, a glint of cunning in his eyes.
The Tang Dynasty decreed that County Magistrates couldn't hold positions in their hometowns.
However, he, County Magistrate Wu, was from a prominent local clan, naturally favoring a County Magistrate like Fu.
“400 wen, that's it. If the County Magistrate agrees to this price.
I will purchase the swamp on the west side along with it!”
“This...”
County Magistrate Wu pondered for a moment before nodding.
“Alright, Mr. Chen, you're so sincere. Let's do it this way!”
Chen Fan also nodded with a faint smile, a gleam of intelligence flashing in his eyes.
Who would have thought that he actually planned to purchase that swamp!
Soon, under the witness of Wei Zheng who had just returned, the two parties signed the contract.
Watching County Magistrate Fu leave with a beaming smile, Chen Fan turned to Bai Qian Li who had just sauntered over.
“Brother Bai, are you certain there really is a coal mine beneath that swamp?”
“Mr. Chen, rest assured, this one also has a basic understanding of geomancy!”
Bai Qian Li lightly swayed his folding fan, replying calmly.
Suddenly, Bai Qian Li looked towards the west, a hint of surprise in his eyes.
“Why is that little bull calf running this way?”