Now, Yongzhou had instead become the last breath Zhao Hanzhang had to preserve, and Xie Shi understood that Zhao Hanzhang was entrusting the retreat route to Zhao Erlang.
Zhao Hanzhang said, "Erlang has served for a time as Luoyang County Magistrate and has gained some understanding of civil affairs. He won't interfere with you too much. You will serve as his Chief Historian. In the future, you will be in charge of civil administration, and he will be in charge of military affairs."
Zhao Hanzhang said meaningfully, "Zi Chen, only after you have accumulated enough seniority and enough merit will it be appropriate for you to take charge on your own."
Xie Shi felt as if he were drinking sweet spring water; he bowed solemnly and replied, "By your command!"
