reserves, there’s lots of work ahead. And even with substantial work, the outcome is unpredictable. Mining is like gambling—the higher the expectation, the bigger the disappointment!" The expert advised earnestly.

"Absolutely, you are right." Secretary Fu, rare in his childlike simplicity compared to now, kept nodding.

At that moment, the office door banged open, startling the geological expert. He frowned as Secretary Liu, Liu Compensation, marched in with his generous belly and a sour face.

"My goodness, Secretary Liu, why didn’t you give us a heads-up! We should’ve rolled out the red carpet and water-sprinkled the streets to welcome your esteemed presence."

"Cut the crap! Can I borrow Bad Shui to go to the county? Give me a straightforward answer!" Secretary Fu initially intended to offer more courtesy but was rudely interrupted by Secretary Liu.

"Sure!" Secretary Fu shifted topics, saying, "When you need something, Secretary Liu, not only Bad Shui—even I’m at your service!"

"I only need Bad Shui!" Seeing Secretary Liu’s insistence, Secretary Fu didn't push further.

"Old Stubborn, serve Secretary Liu the good tea! Excuse me, Expert Yu, I'll step out for a moment. Please wait here," Expert Yu nodded. Secretary Fu headed to the conference room.

"Secretary Liu, please sit." Secretary Liu rebuffed the approaching Old Stubborn with a shove and left.

"Attention all villagers, Secretary Liu from East Village needs a driver. What should we do about this request for help from West Village?" Secretary Fu shouted into the bustling conference room.

"Assist wholeheartedly, without hesitation. Resolve others' difficulties, expect no returns." Their responses echoed loudly.

"Good! Everyone agrees. Comrade Bad Shui, you are dispatched to assist without delay!"

"At your command!" Fu Yushui obliged with a theatrical tone, prompting a wave of laughter. He saw Secretary Liu fuming at the door and quickly grabbed his coat, chasing after him.

Today, Secretary Fu ribbed Secretary Liu, feeling a thrill more refreshing than ice water in the summer. Truth be told, though Fu Yushui had the title of Militia Captain, he mostly worked as a bodyguard, enforcer, and messenger. He had a fearsome reputation, handling all the unpleasant tasks: collecting taxes, extra fees, etc. Many villagers had yet to reach the level of willingly paying up, often resorting to wailing and negotiating.

Thus, the hard-working Fu Yushui earned the nickname Bad Shui—both his names had "Shui" but different meanings. Important people like Secretary Fu got used to calling him that, and Fu Yushui came to accept this moniker calmly. In reality, Bad Shui wasn’t bad—he had the bravery of a soldier and a kind heart. Yet his work left him no choice. Secretary Fu once had a private talk with him,

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