Lin Jin was currently a Rank 2 beast appraiser. To increase his rank, he would have needed to wait until the next promotion exam and pass certain tests.
However, there were exceptions to everything. Indeed, headquarters had the authority to grant unique promotions though it didn't happen under regular circumstances. But if Emperor He Qian ordered it, none of that would be a problem.
Hence, strictly speaking, Lin Jin was now granted an exceptional promotion, turning him from a Rank 2 to Rank 3 beast appraiser.
Not only the royal decree but even a three-ringed beast logo sleeve guard was delivered.
He had to admit that the emperor was very efficient when it came to planning and execution. Also, Lin Jin was curious as to why the edict arrived just moments after he returned to Maple City.
Not sooner nor later.
Perhaps the emperor had arranged for a spy to wait out for him and deliver the edict once Lin Jin returned to Maple City.