Chapter 163: Secretary Fang

An Xin thought for a moment and said, “Since Brother Li has already guessed vaguely, and you’re my friend, I’ll tell you.”

Li Lin nodded.

An Xin whispered, “The appearance of the Zhuxian Society means the Outer Demons have emerged again—at least that’s what our Tianyi Sect’s elders say; during such times, no matter what martial art it is, if it’s powerful, you must learn it. And back then, it took many skilled Spirit Hunters to barely eradicate the Outer Demons.”

“So that’s why you’re also recruiting Spirit Hunters?” Li Lin sighed. “That’s problematic. If Spirit Hunters don’t join the government, but are absorbed by private sects, who will be responsible for local safety and the people’s well-being?”

“We’re only recruiting a few—it won’t affect the bigger picture.”

“If every sect thinks like you, things will get messy,” Li Lin sighed, then added, “But what does this have to do with me, a lowly county constable?”

An Xin had little fondness for the government.

He simply admired Li Lin as a person.

“Let’s return to what we were discussing,” Li Lin said, looking at An Xin. “I can write down the annotations for the paper dolls, but what can you give me in return?”

“The most powerful internal cultivation method in our Tianyi Sect… the Nine Dragon Heavenly Gang Jue.”

Li Lin smiled. “A mighty name.”

“Not just the name is mighty—the internal energy it produces is equally brutal,” An Xin said proudly.

Li Lin could sense a strong flow of spiritual energy coursing through An Xin.

Clearly, the Nine Dragon Heavenly Gang Jue was indeed powerful.

But Li Lin didn’t want it—he was currently cultivating the Foundation Establishment Method.

Even the most basic immortal cultivation technique is superior to any martial art you practice.

He shook his head. “I’m a Spirit Hunter; practicing this method isn’t suitable. Choose something else.”

“What kind of technique are you looking for?” An Xin asked.

Li Lin thought for a moment. “Something related to techniques—I can’t think of anything specific right now. Could you make a list for me to review?”

“Of course.”

“Thank you,” Li Lin bowed and smiled. “I’ll be staying here two more days. Shall we meet again tomorrow?”

“Agreed.”

After a brief idle chat, the two parted ways.

Li Lin returned to the inn to rest.

Time quickly arrived at the next day. An Xin didn’t come, but Huang Yan sent someone to summon him.

Li Lin arrived at the government office, announced his name, and was about to enter when he saw a young man walking out toward him.

Li Lin recognized him—Fang Fengyi, the Secretary of Finance.

Li Lin politely bowed to him, intending to pass by, but was stopped.

“Wait!”

Li Lin turned back, looking at him.

“I’ve seen you before—the county constable of Yulin County,” Fang Fengyi studied Li Lin, a faint smile curling his lips. “I’ve heard stories about you. Now that I see you in person, you truly are as beautiful as she described.”

“Thank you for the compliment,” Li Lin frowned slightly. “If you have no business, I’ll be going in.”

“I do have business,” Fang Fengyi stepped forward. “If nothing changes, we’ll soon be brothers-in-law.”

Li Lin paused. “Little Huang…”

“Yes,” Fang Fengyi chuckled. “Ling’er is gifted and stunningly beautiful. I’ve already written to my family elders to arrange a marriage proposal.”

“Congratulations.”

Li Lin had no affection for Little Huang as a sister-in-law; he could sense her resentment toward him. For him, her marriage was a relief.

“Congratulations?” Fang Fengyi fanned himself with a paper fan, his tone cool. “I don’t need your congratulations. I merely wish to inform you, Constable: though we may become brothers-in-law, don’t try to associate yourself with me or Ling’er. Our Fang family is not for commoners to cling to.”

Li Lin raised an eyebrow and smiled. “That suits me perfectly. I hope you mean what you say, Secretary Fang.”

With that, Li Lin entered the county office.

Fang Fengyi watched Li Lin’s back, his brow furrowed in confusion. “He doesn’t seem like the sycophant Ling’er described.”

Li Lin entered the government hall. Huang Yan was deeply absorbed in reviewing documents. Hearing the sound, he looked up, saw Li Lin, and smiled. “Come closer.”

Li Lin stepped forward.

Huang Yan placed a document before Li Lin. “Take a look.”

Li Lin was puzzled but picked it up and read silently.

When finished, his expression grew grave.

The document had been issued by the Central Secretariat in the capital.

It stated: the tribute paid to the Northern Di had stabilized the northern frontier; now the court would turn its attention southward, aiming to eliminate Qin Tuo, the rebel, and reclaim Yue Prefecture within one year.

“Too hasty,” Li Lin said, returning the document.

“You think it’s hasty too?”

Li Lin nodded. “Neither barbarians nor northern tribes can be trusted. If the imperial army shifts south, what if the Northern Di stir up trouble again?”

“Your thoughts align with mine,” Huang Yan nodded approvingly. “I’ve already submitted a memorial. I only hope His Majesty will see it.”

Li Lin sighed softly.

Over the past few months, he’d gained some understanding of this world.

The current emperor cared nothing for state affairs—he spent his days with Daoists, refining elixirs, preparing for immortality.

“Today, take these hundred southern barbarian women back to Yulin County,” Huang Yan lowered his voice. “I’ve suppressed the matter of Zhang Guangqi. No one will investigate it further. Don’t speak of it yourself.”

Li Lin nodded and bowed. “Thank you, Father-in-law.”

“Don’t thank me. This matter affects the future of my direct line—I should be thanking you for acting decisively.”

At this, father-in-law and son-in-law both smiled faintly.

Li Lin deeply appreciated his father-in-law’s understanding.

How could Huang Yan not be satisfied with Li Lin’s competence?

“Later, go to Secretary Fang to receive the documents.”

“Secretary Fang seems to hold some ill will toward me,” Li Lin said suddenly.

Huang Yan laughed. “He’s jealous. Ignore him.”

“Also, this is Qing’s gift for you.”

Li Lin pulled out a small bundle and placed it on the table.

From its shape, it contained bottles and jars.

Huang Yan took the bundle without hesitation.

Although they still had many Strength-Enhancing Pills, without replenishment, they’d run out in half a year.

Now with a few more bottles, it was certainly good.

“Alright, you may go,” Huang Yan smiled.

Li Lin bowed and went to the Finance Office.

Fang Fengyi was working there.

Li Lin knocked on the door. “By order of the Prefect, I’ve come to receive one hundred southern barbarian women for transport to Yulin County. I’m grateful for your assistance, Secretary Fang.”

Fang Fengyi stood, placing a document on the desk. “Sign and stamp.”

Li Lin carefully reviewed the document, signed his name, then stamped it with his constable seal.

Fang Fengyi glanced at Li Lin’s Song-style script and snorted. “Too rigid….”

Li Lin smiled. “Naturally not as free and bold as your calligraphy, Secretary Fang.”

“You—!”

Fang Fengyi stared at Li Lin, visibly rattled.

(End of Chapter)