Chapter 4: The Mysterious

Gently lifting the curtain at the front of the carriage, Tan Zong raised his eyes to look around, only to realize that the carriage was still swaying near the tavern, which puzzled him. However, seeing the serious expression on the face of the young girl sitting in the front seat of the carriage, Tan Zong felt uncertain about what to say.

After a few more minutes, a standalone courtyard came into view. Given the utterly silent surroundings, if Tan Zong could not sense something amiss, it would be a disgrace to his position as a section-level official. Especially when the two had just exited the previous corridor, a few chirps of crickets could still be heard from behind the courtyard door.

Fortunately, the carriage was tightly covered on all sides, preventing the night wind from blowing into the cabin, so Tan Zong was not affected by the cold. However, the driver seemed to be unfamiliar with the route, causing the carriage to sway violently, making the journey quite bumpy. Tan Zong found it impossible to close his eyes for a moment and could only helplessly turn over.

I shall take a look at what kind of perilous den this courtyard holds

Moreover, perhaps due to the absence of the greenhouse effect in contemporary times, Tan Zong felt that the overall temperature during this season was significantly lower than in later years. Even in early April, the nights still carried a somewhat chilly sensation.

"You may go, my lord; I will wait here at the gate. I will follow you back to the inn as soon as you come out, and then I will meet Sister Su Jin." Xiao Man smiled faintly, yet her expression was calm and composed, further using Su Jin for the second time to entice Tan Zong.

Under the influence of countless films and television shows in later generations, Tan Zong once again made a judgment with his own toes: evidently, the chirping of the cricket should be a signal between Xiaoman and the other party, indicating that everything inside was already prepared, just waiting for Tan Zong to step into the already set trap.

The tales of the raccoon cat swapping the prince and the true and false Monkey King, among others, also reveal underlying mysteries. Therefore, it can be said that any conspiracy or scheme must have its flaws; if there are no flaws, it is not a conspiracy but an open strategy. After watching so many movies, television shows, novels, and magazines in later years, if one lacks even this little cunning, then all those years of living a mundane life would be in vain, and it would be even more regrettable to have spent so long mingling in the officialdom, as well as to have wasted the careful teachings of one's elders.

"My lord, you are overthinking it," Xiao Man said softly. "Perhaps it is because you are drunk and walking slowly that you have this illusion. Once you walk through this corridor and reach the front courtyard, it will be fine."

Ah?

Encountering such an opponent, if Tan Zong does not first seek some interest, it would not be in line with his character

In the midst of his contemplation, Tan Zong staggered and leaned against the slender figure of Xiao Man, already stepping unevenly into the front courtyard of Wenyuan Academy. However, the Wenyuan Academy was shrouded in darkness; if it were not for the lantern held in Xiao Man's left hand, Tan Zong would likely have been unable to see the path ahead.

Feeling the increasing speed of the jolting carriage beneath him, Tan Zong, aware that the carriage was gradually accelerating, turned slightly and stealthily lifted a corner of the front curtain. He happened to catch a glimpse of the fierce expression on Xiao Man's face, which was completely unmasked. Startled, he quickly turned his gaze to the driver, only to realize that although the driver was not particularly skilled at urging the horses, the hands gripping the reins were exceptionally steady, as if holding a dangerous weapon.

However, Tan Zong realized that although he had grasped the general idea of the matter, the details remained unclear. Therefore, at this moment, acting contrary to the opponent's intentions would be the most advantageous course of action. Even if nothing truly detrimental were to occur, it would at least bring some comfort to his mind

It is unclear in which book this was read, but Tan Zong clearly remembers: any conspiracy or scheme must have a premise, which is the target that the other party seeks to seize. This target can be a person, an object, or even a type of social relationship, but ultimately it belongs to you. As long as you can understand the other party's intentions, then all conspiracies are merely a joke.

Now it has come to the point where Tan Zong struggled slightly, but pretended to be drunk, collapsing against the moon gate of the small courtyard, his whole body feigning weakness, making it impossible for Xiao Man to pull him away no matter how hard she tried

After a brief assessment in his heart, Tan Zong quietly lowered the car curtain and lay back down, then feigned the appearance of being drunk and still half-asleep as he spoke: "Xiao Man, have we arrived at Wenyuan Courtyard?"

Reflecting on her own formal demeanor and the way she had been unresponsive after the conversation at the tavern Xiaoman in the afternoon, Tan Zong felt she had gained some insight. She understood that she had nearly identified the crux of the matter, and what remained was simply to respond to each challenge as it arose

If Tan Zong were truly drunk, he would naturally be unable to discern the intricacies within. However, Tan Zong is currently clear-headed; even if he were to think with his toes, he would understand that it is quite late at Wen Yuan Academy, the main gate is wide open, yet there is no one on guard, which undoubtedly indicates something amiss. It is possible that the people of Wen Yuan Academy have already been bribed, intending to stage a good show right in front of the examiners and supervisors.

Could it be that they are outsiders? Upon thinking of this, Tan Zong was first taken aback, but then he dismissed the thought: If they were truly outsiders, they probably wouldn't bother to come after me; it would be much better to simply abduct Su Jin directly! Why go to such lengths to harm me?

Since that is the case, I shall leave early and return early. Tan Zong sighed inwardly, thinking that from this moment on, the two would be enemies. He no longer cast a glance at the beautiful girl and directly lifted his leg to walk inside, feeling an uncontrollable surge of boldness within him

In Xiaoman's eyes, this situation further confirmed the fact that Tan was utterly drunk, and a hint of sarcasm immediately appeared in her gaze. To Xiaoman, this drunken madman was no different from a dead person, and there was no need to conceal his expression any longer.

Hearing the crisp sound coming from outside the carriage, Tan Zong felt a sudden shock in his heart. Just a moment ago, he had clearly seen the horse-drawn carriage swaying near the tavern, a good four or five streets away from the Wenyuan Courtyard. Although it would only take about ten minutes to drive the carriage over, why would Xiaoman need to deceive him?

"It doesn't matter, having reached this courtyard gate, are we still afraid of delaying half a cup of tea's worth of time? Allow me to catch my breath before we continue." Tan Zong smiled inwardly, knowing that Xiao Man was indeed pressed by his tactic and was even less willing to get up.

Unfortunately, before Tan Zong could think in detail, he heard the coachman outside let out a light sigh, and the carriage came to a sudden halt, then stopped completely. Suddenly, the rear curtain was pulled up from the outside, and a pleasant fragrance swirled in with the night breeze. Even without the dim light of the carriage lamp, Tan Zong could unmistakably tell that it was undoubtedly Xiao Man who had entered the carriage.

As long as Xiaoman truly does this, then Tan Zong's objective will be achieved. As for other so-called schemes and tricks, Tan Zong does not consider them. It is important to understand that the examination process is a significant matter that concerns one's entire life: if missed, not only will one be unable to take the exam for three years, but more terrifyingly, this incident will inevitably leave a stain on Tan Zong's personnel record, a mark that may never be erased in a lifetime. It is important to understand that the examination process is a significant matter that concerns one's entire life: if missed, not only will one be unable to take the exam for three years, but more terrifyingly, this incident will inevitably leave a stain on Tan Zong's personnel record, a mark that may never be erased in a lifetime

Unfortunately, this clever little girl exceeded Tan Zong's expectations; she was utterly tight-lipped, saying nothing but that they would soon arrive from beginning to end

Philosophical words like these are certainly etched in Tan Zong's heart. He has relied on such words to ride the coattails of the political arena and has also sought after well-known gray income. However, all of this was facilitated by his status as a future tax bureau official at the division level, his uncle being the head of the municipal transportation bureau, and a previous generation having someone in the provincial committee. Yet now, with Tan Zong's current appearance and identity, what is there that others would find worth scheming for? All of this was facilitated by his status as a future tax bureau official at the division level, his uncle being the head of the municipal transportation bureau, and a previous generation having someone in the provincial committee. Yet now, with Tan Zong's current appearance and identity, what is there that others would find worth scheming for?

Seeing Tan Zong unable to rise, Xiao Man felt even more anxious, almost on the verge of tears. She hurriedly lifted Su Jin out and said: "My husband, please go and finish your business. You must know that Sister Su Jin is still waiting for you to return to the inn soon"

It is still two streets away, but we will arrive soon. My husband, please rest a moment longer; once we arrive, I will surely call you.

Oh? Tan Zong's expression froze for a moment, but he thought of the other party mentioning Su Jin, fearing that he could no longer pretend. He had no choice but to feign a look of sudden realization, and pretended to be weak, leaning against the wall to stand up. Once he steadied himself, he finally spoke: "What you said is correct; we need to get this matter done sooner rather than later"

Yet, he did not know what the other party truly intended. At this point, the only option was to take one step at a time. Tan Zong comforted himself slightly, but he had not made any progress. Not only did he keep shaking his head under the influence of alcohol to observe the surrounding terrain, but he also occasionally used a mumbling tone to engage in conversation with Xiao Man.

At this point, Tan Zong felt a shock in his heart, realizing that he had gradually grasped the outline of the other party's conspiracy. Although he was still unclear about the details of the plan, the main idea was undoubtedly correct. Therefore, Tan Zong felt both astonished and relieved, truly a strange combination of emotions.

Although Tan Zong appeared to be in a drunken stupor, his mind was as clear as a mirror. He not only noticed the mocking expression on Xiao Man's face, but also the subtle changes on the face of the man who looked like a coachman.

Heaven has mercy, Tan Zong guarantees that this moment is enough for him to count one thousand sheep

Tan Zong's mind was filled with countless thoughts, and after much contemplation, he realized that no matter how he pondered, he could never uncover the mastermind behind the entire affair. Although this matter was not significantly related to the overall conspiracy, Tan Zong was a person who held grudges. If he did not identify the hidden hand behind this, even if he successfully escaped the current peril, he feared that he would find it difficult to eat and sleep peacefully in the future

If the dull expression on the coachman's face were to be replaced by the countenance of a fierce ghost, it is likely that Tan Zong would regard this person as a nightmarish demon emerging from the battlefield of the Asura.

Hearing this unexpectedly astonished voice, Tan Zong realized that his words had undoubtedly struck a nerve with the other party: if you refuse to comply and try to conceal it, you must quickly drive the carriage away; if you do comply and truly lift the curtain of the carriage, then the matter will be exposed

Regardless of the situation, it is evident that the other party cannot accept it. Weighing the two harms and choosing the lesser one, Tan Zong can almost be certain that the other party will surely decline with eloquent words, and then instruct the coachman to hasten the journey to Wenyuan Courtyard in order to make up for this time difference

Xiao Man struggled to pull him, but could not move Tan Zong at all. Her face immediately revealed an expression of anxiety: "My husband, you must first get up and go to the courtyard to verify the scroll, sign it, and make your mark before anything else can be done."

Tan Zongfang lifted one leg and saw Xiaoman looking as if she had just been relieved of a heavy burden, as if she wanted to watch him die. Unable to suppress his thoughts, he placed the foot he had just raised back down, turned to Xiaoman, and said: "You help me over there; I fear I cannot walk properly on my own."

Therefore, Tan Zong is now fully aware of the dangers ahead, yet he is compelled to venture into the tiger's den. The only thing Tan Zong can do now is to remain vigilant, carefully considering every action and decision.

If it were someone unfamiliar with the field, it could be excused. However, when Tan Zong was working at the tax bureau, his superior was particularly fond of this subject. As a result, Tan Zong had put in some effort to learn that these crickets from nature only appear in the autumn. Yet, it is only April now; where could the crickets possibly come from? Truly a lapse in meticulousness

That is good, that is good. Once this matter is resolved, you can return to the inn with me, meet with Su Jin, and then go to redeem her. Tan Zong laughed heartily, pretending to be drunk, and deliberately exhaled towards Xiao Man, enveloping her entire face in a foul stench of mixed alcohol and meat.

Xiaoman, have you not arrived yet? Why do I feel as though I have been walking in this Wenyuan Courtyard for quite a long time? Even a few days ago, when I was with the books during the provincial examination, I did not walk this long.

As long as one upholds righteousness and does not violate the laws of the Great Shun, with one's current status as a candidate from the Nanjing Prefecture, it is likely that no one would dare to harm oneself. After all, this place is not like the later generations, where the officialdom is relatively clear and transparent. At this time, the Nanjing Prefecture is further guarded by personnel directly under the Cabinet's supervisory office—these individuals are like wolves that devour without spitting out bones. In the officialdom of the Great Shun, it is unlikely that any official would dare to commit offenses under their watchful eyes.

Tan Zonglue pondered for a moment and realized that along the way, there were all sorts of strange sounds, clearly intended by the other party to guide Xiaoman and himself. They seemed to fear arousing his suspicion, as there was not a single sound that repeated itself on this journey, demonstrating their considerable effort and thoughtfulness.

Such stealthy and mysterious skills, Tan Zong has only encountered in certain high-flying martial arts novels of later generations, truly astonishing in their intensity

This person finds it difficult to express emotions, and if he is not a seasoned expert from the battlefield, he is likely a cold-blooded killer devoid of any feelings. Regardless of which it is, anyone capable of moving such a figure is likely not an ordinary character, and even the esteemed Wang family in Nanjing may not be able to afford him

Oh? Is it this late? Tan Zong appeared as if he had just awakened from a drunken stupor, using Xiao Man's strength to sit up straight. His eyes were half-closed, and he occasionally rubbed his forehead with his hand

Thinking of this, Tan Zong finally revealed a serious expression on his face, knowing that there must be some matters happening that he was unaware of. However, while other things could be discussed, the matter of reviewing the examination papers could not be delayed. Therefore, he could only keep all his thoughts to himself. After a moment of contemplation, he continued, slightly inebriated, "Please help me pull open the curtain of the carriage, so I can get some fresh air. It feels quite stuffy lying here alone in this carriage."

Reflecting on this, Tan Zong felt somewhat reassured, but then continued to ponder: "If the other party's aim in dealing with me is indeed Su Jin, then it is evident that they have encountered setbacks in front of Su Jin, yet have found a breakthrough with Xiao Man. In other words, Su Jin can be trusted, but Xiao Man has clearly been compromised. Therefore, Xiao Man's words are certainly not to be believed."

"You do speak well. However, since you have never been here, how could you have led me here so smoothly?" Tan Zong did not address the underlying meaning of her words, thus the latter part was spoken in his mind.

Seeing the expressions of shame, resentment, and sarcasm on Xiaoman's face, Tan Zong couldn't help but smile inwardly: Compared to myself, although this Xiaoman is somewhat clever, her life experience is lacking too much, and at such a critical moment, it is evident how far apart we are.

Indeed, upon hearing what Tan Zonggang said, Xiaoman's expression immediately changed, and she quickly put on a look of grievance, saying: "My lord is joking. How could a person of my lowly status enter such a place? Even entering the Wenyuan Courtyard is already relying on my lord's favor. How could someone like Xiaoman possibly enter such a confidential place"

Upon thinking of this, Tan Zong couldn't help but feel a sense of self-satisfaction, as Xiaoman's betrayal only highlighted Su Jin's loyalty. However, Tan Zong did not indulge in this feeling for long and quickly set it aside, continuing to ponder: "In order to deal with me, they must consider my status as a subordinate in Nanjing. Given the attitude of the Da Shun Dynasty towards civil and military scholars, the other party absolutely cannot overtly oppress me; this is also the main reason they must come secretly. Therefore, the first thing they must do is ... "

Moreover, even if Xiaoman saw through him, Tan Zong was not afraid at heart. Now that he had a firm grip on the crux of the matter, unless the other party resorted to force, Tan Zong intended to continue to tease the other party's whiskers here, to see exactly what kind of person they were and what they were made of

Please bear with it a little longer, and we will arrive in about half a cup of tea's time

Listening to Xiaoman's expected response, Tan Zong felt a hint of bitterness. He was most averse to being betrayed. However, it was still uncertain whether this matter involved Su Jin. If it turned out that Su Jin was indeed involved, Tan Zong would have to seriously consider whether there was something mysterious about his own identity.

Tan Zong's voice, lacking any resonance, resembled that of someone half-awake from drunkenness

I possess nothing of value; in the inn, there are merely a few dozen taels of silver left, which might not even amount to the private savings of Xiao Man. Tan Menghua's family is of average means, with only a few dozen to nearly a hundred acres of farmland, at best a minor landlord. As for me, I have transmigrated and carry no remarkable items. All things considered, the only thing that could be deemed eye-catching is an unwed bride. Could it be that...

Then I shall go in? Tan Zong asked, glancing sideways at Xiao Man. However, in his heart, he harbored a thought to test Xiao Man: if Xiao Man showed signs of struggle, it would indicate that this person still had a conscience, and that this betrayal was likely due to coercion; but if she appeared relieved, it would suggest that there was no longer any sense of loyalty to speak of.

Once again quietly lowering the car curtain, Tan Zong turned over, as if he were a person in the carriage unable to find a comfortable position, tossing and turning restlessly

However, terrifyingly, Tan Zong quietly observed the coachman for half a minute under the cover of night and Xiao Man, yet he did not see even the slightest change in the man's facial expression. Moreover, this person was dressed in dark clothing; if it were not for Tan Zong's keen observation, he might have easily overlooked him.

"My lord, the Wenyuan Academy has arrived." Gently shaking Tan Zong's body, Xiao Man whispered, "It is likely close to 9 o'clock now; if we delay, we may miss the appointed time."

Performances like this, Tan Zong had done countless times while drinking with classmates during his university years, and he had never been discovered. Today, when he employs it, it is truly second nature to him, and he is not at all afraid of being seen through by the little girl.

The night is cool as water, and the early April sun is neither too warm nor too hot, yet the evening is quite refreshing