Zhou Shuren took Zhulan's hand. "Indeed, there is good news, but it's not about me. Today, the government office received a petition to the Emperor from the people, thanking His Majesty for his boundless grace which has allowed Lizhou City to enjoy peace and prosperity. I've already sent someone to deliver it post-haste to the capital."
His efforts in promoting the Emperor's kindness at every opportunity, when it mattered and when it didn't, had worn him out these days.
Zhulan caught on. "Your doing?"
Zhou Shuren pinched Zhulan's nose. "I knew I couldn't hide it from you. I'm bound to be transferred up next year, and this petition will work in my favor."
He didn't want to be transferred laterally and bullied, so naturally, he would add any leverage he could to his situation.
