Jing Wenxuan was wearing a plain robe. Although the robe was made of ordinary material, he wore it meticulously. Every wrinkle appeared smooth and orderly, showing his rigorous attitude towards life.
He had a thin face, slightly sunken cheeks, slightly prominent cheekbones, and his skin had a slightly sallow color due to years of hard work.
However, those eyes in the deep eye sockets were exceptionally bright, like the cold stars twinkling in the night sky, deep and bright, with a sense of righteousness in his eyes. At a glance, one could feel his inner integrity and perseverance.
His eyes showed both the calmness accumulated over the years and the persistent pursuit of justice, as if silently telling of the official's way of being and the principles of life that he had adhered to for many years.
When he saw the princess standing in the hall, exuding royal majesty, a trace of awe flashed in his eyes.
He immediately walked quickly to the princess and knelt on his knees, his movements quick but respectful.
He leaned down, his forehead touching the ground lightly, his hands placed neatly at his sides, and said in a clear voice: "I, Jing Wenxuan, greet Her Royal Highness. May Her Royal Highness be in good health and live a long and prosperous life."
His voice was steady and powerful, and although it was a bit humble, it could not hide the firmness in it.
The princess nodded slightly, her eyes falling gently on Jing Wenxuan.
She leaned slightly to meet Jing Wenxuan's gaze and spoke softly, "Jing Wenxuan, Youzhou County Magistrate Zhao Dechang has committed a serious crime. He deceived his superiors and subordinates, shielded his relatives, and caused the people of this area to suffer injustice. This palace, mindful that Youzhou cannot be without a leader for a single day, has decided, at the recommendation of Young Master Wei, to appoint you to temporarily take over his duties. During this time, all matters of the county government, big and small, will fall on your shoulders. You must do your utmost to judge cases impartially, appease the people, and handle all matters of the county government effectively. You must not disappoint this palace."
The princess's words were clear and solemn, and every word was filled with concern for the people of Youzhou and trust in Jing Wenxuan.
Jing Wenxuan raised his head, his eyes filled with gratitude and determination. He saluted again and replied sincerely, "Don't worry, Your Highness. I know this burden is heavy, but I will do my best to live up to your trust. I will uphold justice and wholeheartedly work for the welfare of the people of Youzhou. If I slack off in the slightest, I am willing to accept punishment."
There was a gleam in his eyes, which showed his responsibility for the mission and determination for future work, as if at this moment, he had already closely linked his fate with that of Youzhou.
The princess was very satisfied with Jing Wenxuan's answer. She nodded slightly with a faint smile on her lips.
Then, she turned to Wei Che and Su Huaiyue beside her and said, "Let's go."
Wei Che and Su Huaiyue bowed slightly and followed the princess.
At this time, the yamen runners had already escorted Zhao Dechang, Zhang Yi and other prisoners to their place of detention.
The princess led everyone out of the county government office. The sunlight shone on them, outlining streaks of light and shadow.
When the common people heard the news, they came from all directions and crowded the streets. Some stood on tiptoe, and some stood on high places, just to get a glimpse of the princess and the newly appointed acting county magistrate.
From time to time, bursts of praise could be heard from the crowd: "The princess is so perceptive! This is the person who truly stands up for us people!"
"Yes, I hope the new county magistrate can be as fair as the princess and make Youzhou better and better."
Everyone praised the princess for her fair judgment, their eyes filled with admiration and gratitude.
At the same time, they were also full of expectations for the newly appointed acting county magistrate Jing Wenxuan, with curiosity and hope in their eyes, as if they were looking forward to a more stable and prosperous future for Youzhou.
Since the princess appeared in Youzhou, the people of Youzhou naturally did not dare to neglect her. To show their respect, the local gentry and wealthy people invested in preparing a grand banquet.
As night falls, the lights come on.
It is the largest restaurant in Youzhou and is decorated magnificently.
The big red lanterns hung high up, lighting up the entire street.
Inside the restaurant, table after table was filled with delicious food, and the aroma filled the air.
The sound of stringed instruments is melodious and graceful, never stopping in the ears.
The princess was dressed in a gorgeous palace dress and sat upright on the main seat, with graceful manners and royal style.
Wei Che and Su Huaiyue sat beside the princess, and their seating arrangement also showed how much the princess valued them.
The princess looked around and smiled, saying, "It is truly a great honor for me to be able to gather here with you all today. Youzhou is a land of outstanding people and honest people. However, recently corrupt officials like Zhao Dechang have emerged, disturbing the peace. However, now that the truth has been revealed, I have ordered Jing Wenxuan to temporarily take over the post of county magistrate. I believe that under his governance, Youzhou will continue to improve."
Everyone stood up, raised their glasses to their eyebrows, and said loudly: "May Her Royal Highness the Princess live forever, and may Youzhou prosper."
After saying that, he drank it all in one gulp.
After three rounds of drinks, the atmosphere became more and more lively.
At this time, a country gentleman dressed in silk and satin stood up and said respectfully, "Your Highness is wise and brave. You have done justice for the people of Youzhou this time. This is truly a great favor. I have a small gift for you. I hope Your Highness will accept it."
After saying this, he signaled the servants behind him to bring up an exquisite box.
The princess frowned slightly and said, "I have come here to ascertain the truth and restore justice to the people, not to accept bribes. I appreciate the squire's kindness, but please accept this gift. I only hope that you will all work together to assist Lord Jing and ensure that the people of Youzhou live and work in peace and contentment."
The squire blushed slightly upon hearing this and quickly said, "I was inconsiderate. Her Highness cares deeply about the people and is honest and upright. She is truly a role model for us. I will follow her instructions and assist Lord Jing with all my strength."
At this time, Su Huaiyue looked at this lively yet somewhat restrained scene, and couldn't help but sigh in his heart.
As a modern person who traveled through time, she was still not used to the ancient official social interactions and red tape.
But seeing the princess's fair and selfless attitude, she felt a little more admiration for her.
She turned to look at Wei Che, who seemed to notice her gaze, tilted his head slightly, and whispered to her, "Don't be nervous, I'm here."
That gentle voice, like a warm current, instantly dispelled the uneasiness in her heart.
At the banquet, everyone was toasting each other and the atmosphere was lively.
The princess looked at the people from Youzhou present and suddenly said, "I've heard that the people of Youzhou are brave and strong, and that horseback riding and archery are prevalent. It's a rare opportunity for us to gather together today. Why don't you all demonstrate your horseback riding and archery skills to broaden my horizons?"
Everyone responded and soon arranged all the arrangements for horse riding and archery in a wide area outside the city.
When they arrived at the archery field, they saw galloping horses and targets standing in rows. The young men from Youzhou were all ready to give it a try.
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