Zhang Xinyan grasped the situation at once.
These officials were most likely long-serving clerks of the prefectural office. During the Han Dynasty, a prefect held immense authority. Within a prefecture, aside from the chief clerk and the commandant, nearly all officials—high or low—were appointed or dismissed at the prefect's discretion.
Even county magistrates were not beyond his reach. If a prefect found one incompetent, he could replace him outright. The title "Shouling" referred to an acting county magistrate.
Because of this sweeping power, people of the Han era often likened a prefecture to a miniature kingdom, with the prefect as its ruler. The administrative office itself was called the "prefectural court." When the prefect met with his officials, it was described as "ascending the court," and when the meeting ended, "retiring from court." These formalities reflected the extent of his authority.
Most county officials came from influential local families. Since Wei You had already appeared at the county office, Zhang Xin surmised that they must have received word—through certain channels—that Liu Yu intended to appease him with the position of Prefect of Yuyang.
Otherwise, after hiding for so many days without being summoned, why would they suddenly return?
They were likely worried that if Zhang Xin truly rose to power, he would settle old scores. So they had chosen to present themselves early and avoid trouble.
Zhang Xin didn't mind. The Yellow Turbans lacked capable administrators; if he dismissed them all, who would handle governance?
"I understand," he said, nodding to Deng Xing. "I'll meet Liu Youzhou's envoy first. Leave the rest to you."
"Yes, sir."
After eliminating Qiuliju, Zhang Xin had already written to Deng Xing and Chen Song, explaining the situation and asking them to prepare. Now that he had returned to Yuyang, the remaining matters could be left in their hands.
After giving instructions to his generals, he brought Guan Yu with him back to the prefectural office.
Inside the main hall, a man in his sixties sat upright, composed and dignified.
Zhang Xin adjusted his armor outside, then strode in. The moment Wei You saw him, a flicker of surprise crossed his eyes, and he stood up.
But Zhang Xin was faster—he bowed first.
"My name is Zhang Xin, courtesy name Ziqing. Greetings, Attendant Wei."
Regardless of status, the man's age alone deserved respect. Zhang Xin would not let him bow first.
Guan Yu followed suit behind him.
"Wei You of Youzhou greets General Zhang," the elder replied.
"I am young and unworthy of such a title. Please call me by my courtesy name."
Zhang Xin stepped forward to support him, preventing him from bowing further—at his age, it wouldn't do.
Once seated, Zhang Xin personally helped Wei You to his place, which pleased the old man greatly.
A courteous young man, he thought.
"What brings you here today, Lord Wei?" Zhang Xin asked from the main seat.
"Then I shall address you as Ziqing," Wei You said with a smile. "You have wiped out the Wuhuan across three commanderies—your achievements are renowned. Even children in Youzhou know your name. I came to offer my congratulations."
Zhang Xin sighed.
"When a household prospers, the people suffer; when it falls, the people still suffer. What is there to celebrate?"
He lowered his gaze slightly.
"My parents died when I was young. I grew up in poverty. I know the pain of losing family—and the bitterness of hunger."
"Since arriving in Youzhou, all I have seen is chaos—barbarians rampant, people displaced. It reminds me of my own past suffering."
"Fortunately, I command several thousand troops. So I raised an army and struck the Wuhuan, so the people might live in peace under a clear sky."
His tone was measured, solemn—deliberately so.
Wei You was stunned.
"When a dynasty prospers, the people suffer; when it falls, the people suffer…" he repeated softly, visibly moved.
Could such words truly come from someone so young?
He had followed Zhang Xin's reports closely. He had assumed the young man's actions were merely ambition—seeking fame and position under the guise of righteousness.
But now, he wasn't so sure.
Only someone with genuine compassion could speak like this.
There was no need to test him further.
"Your words are enlightening," Wei You said sincerely. "You are young, yet exceptional. Would you be willing to serve the court?"
Zhang Xin suppressed his excitement and sighed again, putting on a conflicted expression.
He spoke of loyalty, of debts of gratitude, of circumstances beyond his control—layer upon layer of justification. He painted himself as a reluctant rebel, driven by necessity, now eager for redemption.
In the end, he even forced a few tears.
"If granted amnesty by the court, I would devote my life and sword to the nation!"
Wei You's eyes grew moist.
Compared to his own carefree grandson, this youth had endured hardship and battle at such a young age.
"What a tragedy…" he murmured. "Fortunately, Governor Liu is benevolent and wishes to recruit you. Otherwise, the court would lose a true hero."
"I will never forget his kindness," Zhang Xin replied immediately.
Wei You nodded. "Governor Liu intends to appoint you as Prefect of Yuyang. Will you accept?"
"I gladly accept," Zhang Xin said, then hesitated. "However… I wish to request an additional post."
"What post?"
"Protector of the Wuhuan."
Wei You frowned at once, his earlier warmth cooling.
Zhang Xin quickly explained, "This is not for my own gain, but for the people."
"According to Han law, officials of two-thousand-shi rank may not leave their jurisdiction without imperial decree. Though the Wuhuan are defeated, the Xianbei still raid our borders. As Prefect alone, I would be unable to lead troops beyond the frontier."
"If granted this title, I could take the fight to them—keeping war outside our borders and ensuring lasting peace in Youzhou."
He paused, then added softly, "If this request is inappropriate, then please disregard it… it's just that the people of Youzhou suffer so greatly."
Wei You studied him, then slowly nodded.
"I understand your intentions. I will report this to the governor."
"The people of Youzhou thank you," Zhang Xin said, rising to bow.
Wei You waved him off with a smile. "No need for such formality."
Then he produced a bamboo scroll and an official seal, handing them over.
"What is this?" Zhang Xin asked, puzzled.
"See for yourself."
Zhang Xin unrolled the document.
It was an official decree of appointment.
He had been granted a position within Youzhou—and was to oversee the administration of Yuyang.