Chapter 8: The Spark

Meanwhile, Tan Zong cautiously grasped the meaning behind Zhang Heniang's words, thereby acknowledging Zhang Heniang's true intent, and in a small way, he flattered Zhang Heniang, who was quite pleased with it.

Having said that, Wang moved his left hand to pull the petite girl who had spun beside him into his embrace: "Tonight, young lady, you shall become a member of my Wang residence!"

"Young master, am I not your person?" Wang Dong's eyes suddenly brightened, and he couldn't help but laugh, saying: "Are you not precisely my Wang Dong's person?"

The servants of the royal residence are well aware that although the women above are merely courtesans and entertainers, they are all the exclusive possessions of the young master of the royal residence. It is said that even a mere glance could cost one their life.

Seeing those two leave in response, Tan Zong finally felt a complete sense of relief in his heart. He knew that he had done everything he could, and there would be no further opportunities for his efforts. It was likely that "do your best and leave the rest to fate" was indeed the case.

"Young Master." After offering a greeting to Wang Dong, Xiao Man, however, paid no attention to the giggling songstress beside Wang Dong and directly said, "I heard a piece of news from the young lady and came specifically to inform you, Young Master."

At this moment, Zhang Heniang, still under the influence of alcohol, had a conflict with Supervisor Cao. However, now, with the chilling night breeze blowing and the heat from the fire scene, the contrasting temperatures both inside and outside had significantly sobered Zhang Heniang. He suddenly became aware of the situation at hand and was already inwardly lamenting.

By this time, Tan Zong had calmed down in his heart, and even had the leisure to observe the hands of this Inspector Cao—he noticed that the man's fingers were long and slender, and to use a description from a martial arts novel, he probably wielded a good hand for hidden weapons

As soon as Zhang Heniang spoke these words, it immediately made Tan Zong feel that all his previous efforts had not been in vain. It would be absolutely false for Tan Zong to say that he felt no pain, after all, everyone is made of flesh and blood. In order to evade the search by the people from the royal mansion, Tan Zong had to hold his breath in the fire for several minutes before he managed to escape.

However, although Tan Zong's thoughts skillfully flattered Zhang Heniang's old foot, they seemed to offer little benefit to the current situation

Fearing detection by those who might come in to search, Tan Zong knocked over several bookshelves and concealed himself among them. Although he had deliberately avoided certain areas when starting the fire, once the flames ignited, controlling them proved to be quite difficult.

Moreover, with this solid identity of the Asian dollar as a foundation, Tan Zong's inner confidence can also be bolstered to some extent, while conveniently allowing for an understanding of this hidden concern in her heart, truly achieving two goals with one action

Therefore, before leaving, the footnotes here must be firmly established. More importantly, it is essential to remind Zhang Heniang that there are still people waiting for him to rescue them in the prison. Even on the side of Supervisor Cao, footnotes must also be established, lest he forget himself once he is thrown in.

Therefore, under no circumstances can Tan Zong allow Zhang Heniang to continue confronting that Supervisor Cao.

Seeing the steward under the firelight with a face that seemed to express sorrow yet joy, Tan Zong couldn't help but smile slightly in his heart. He knew that this fire would not be so easily extinguished; it might very well burn the Wang residence to the ground. "Just take a good look, those who offend me will not find it so easy to live in peace."

After Tan Zong reviewed it, from the perspective of future generations, he discovered a particularly intriguing regulation within the Da Shun Law: in contemporary terms, it is a law that starkly discriminates against the working class—among the four categories of society: scholars, farmers, artisans, and merchants, the latter three are presumed guilty under the Da Shun Law, while scholars are presumed innocent.

Wangfu Courtyard

To everyone's surprise, Inspector Cao did not refute Zhang Heniang's words; instead, he clasped his hands towards Tan Zongyi and said, "What Lord Zhang said is indeed correct; this is indeed a lapse on Qiao Mu's part"

After a while, it seemed that a consensus had been reached, and the leader turned around. Tan, with his keen eyes, noticed that this person had a serious expression on his face, which made him feel a sudden tightness in his heart. He sensed that tonight's events might hold some unpredictable twists that he could hardly anticipate

Zhang Heniann's words were not concerning until now; with his reminder, Tan Zong suddenly recalled his own severe burns. Instantly, he felt a wave of pain throughout his body, particularly on his back, which felt as if it were on fire

May I have the honor to report to the two esteemed individuals?

"Lord Cao," Zhang Heniang clasped his hands and addressed the chief inspector, "have you ever seen someone like Tan Yayuan, who, after setting a fire, still rushes into the flames to extinguish it? Not to mention us, just look at those present; who among them would risk their life to save a few account books like Tan Yayuan? If such actions are deemed suspicious, I fear it will be difficult to find any good person in this world. This matter, not only do we find it hard to accept at this moment, but even if this case were brought before the elders, it would be difficult to convince us." If such actions are deemed suspicious, I fear it will be difficult to find any good person in this world. This matter, not only do we find it hard to accept at this moment, but even if this case were brought before the elders, it would be difficult to convince us.

Therefore, once these words from Inspector Cao were spoken, not only Zhang Heniang but also his two colleagues behind him were filled with indignation and were eager to step forward to engage in a debate with Inspector Cao

Although that person was also dressed entirely in black, a disheveled black, one could see that he appeared completely oblivious. Moreover, the mute servant was holding some items in his hand; what else could it be if not the burned ledger.

"Nunu said he is the young master, so those soldiers naturally brought Xiaoman over to look for the young master." Xiaoman suddenly let out a charming laugh, then turned gracefully in front of Wang, her pale yellow long dress fluttering like a cloud, slightly revealing the moon-white undergarments beneath her skirt.

Tan Zong almost thought he had misheard, for the words of the man claiming to be Qiao Mu, Inspector Cao, surprisingly carried a hint of apology.

At this moment, what Tan Zong desires is precisely such a title—once the title of "Yuan" is established, even if Tan Zong enters the Nanjing Prefectural Prison as a suspect, the prison guards will likely have to treat him differently

Therefore, when Tan Zong suddenly jumped out, although Zhang Heniang still wore an unpleasant expression on his face, he could not help but feel a sense of relief deep down, secretly exhaling a large breath of turbid air.

Oh? The inspector with the surname Cao flashed a somewhat playful smile in his eyes. After pondering for a while, he said: "What does Lord Zhang intend to do? Is it possible that this scholar Tan is completely without suspicion?"

At this moment, Tan Zong intentionally mentioned the terms "Da Shun Law" and "reason and principle" in front of everyone, which was tantamount to a blatant reminder to Zhang Heniang

In this regard, Tan Zong has thoroughly experienced the political brutality of feudal society

Regarding this type of sign language, Tan Zong had also learned about it; blind language is one form of sign language. In addition, the military has its own set of commonly used sign language. Therefore, although Tan Zong was aware that the three individuals were communicating in sign language, he could only speculate in secret due to two reasons: first, the three had their hands hidden in their sleeves, and second, he was unfamiliar with their specific sign language patterns

"What message? What message is worth your coming here at this time?" A look of surprise flashed across Wang Dong's face as he couldn't help but ask, "Isn't there a curfew now? How did you manage to come here?"

In fact, Tan Zong's thoughts are entirely correct

Therefore, as long as the procedures for reviewing the examination papers are completed, even if Supervisor Cao has further objections, he will likely have to address Tan Zong as Tan Yuyuan

According to what Lord Cao has said, with Tan Zong present at the scene of the fire and no witnesses, the suspicion is likely quite serious. Even if it were me, I would also be suspected to some extent.

Although the term "extraneous branches" used by Inspector Cao is somewhat obscure, everyone present, apart from those subordinates still engaged in firefighting, are seasoned veterans who have navigated the officialdom for quite some time. They immediately grasp the warning embedded in his words—specifically directed at these inspectors. No one else would dare to express such a blatant and threatening statement.

This series of actions is of no concern, yet over there, Inspector Cao furrowed his brow once more and raised his hand, saying: "Could it be that the esteemed gentlemen wish to complicate matters further?"

At this point, Tan Zong glanced at Inspector Cao, only to find that Inspector Cao's expression remained completely unchanged, clearly unmoved by Tan Zong's tactic of retreating to advance. Instantly, he felt a surge of resentment, cursing inwardly and blaming himself for misrepresenting his feelings. Fortunately, Tan Zong's greatest reliance was not on this Inspector Cao, so he composed himself slightly and continued: "However, according to the laws of the Great Shun, although Tan Zong has no witnesses, there is reason and logic behind it; therefore, this suspicion can be considered negligible."

"Young Master, the young lady Xiaoman has arrived." The servant entered to report, but kept his head bowed the entire time, not daring to raise it to glance at the music platform.

However, regardless of the circumstances, Tan Zong has indeed benefited from the great fortune of the Shun Law at this moment. After all, the Inspector Cao had previously mentioned that the delay in the examination papers was merely a minor issue. Although Inspector Cao consistently referred to Tan Zong as Tan Xiucai, he only suspected Tan Zong of arson and could not deny Tan Zong's status as a candidate for the Yuan. This was personally endorsed by the Cabinet, and even if he wanted to deny it, he could not do so.

"I will do everything as you say, Young Master," Xiao Man said shyly. "However, I have something important to inform you, Young Master."

Zhang Heniang was indeed very astute, and without a moment's hesitation, he picked up on Tan Zong's words, saying: "What Tan Yayuan said is absolutely correct. Even if Supervisor Cao intends to imprison Tan Yayuan, he must first allow Tan Yayuan to complete the examination of the documents."

Scholar Tan previously mentioned that the thief was taken away by someone, but unfortunately, it seems that none of the esteemed officials witnessed it. Therefore, it is difficult for us to assess the truth of this matter. However, since Scholar Tan currently has no witnesses, I fear that he will have to accompany us tonight. We will wait until tomorrow when the government office opens, and we will report to Governor Wang, who will then conduct an inquiry. After saying this, he made a gesture, signaling the two individuals behind him to go and detain Tan Zong. We will wait until tomorrow when the government office opens, and we will report to Governor Wang, who will then conduct an inquiry. After saying this, he made a gesture, signaling the two individuals behind him to go and detain Tan Zong.

Although Zhang Heniang is merely a local official from another region, he is nonetheless the chief examiner for this year's provincial examination in Nanjing. After all matters related to the examination are concluded, he must return to the capital to report to the Ministry of Personnel before going back to his original jurisdiction. If Zhang Heniang is inclined, even a slight mention of Tan Zong in front of the superior would be a rare opportunity that Tan Zong would find difficult to encounter in his lifetime.

"It cannot be said, yet I must play the hero once more." Tan Zong sighed slightly in his heart, then suddenly stepped forward two paces from behind Zhang Heniang, and after slightly falling back behind him, he respectfully said, "Esteemed sirs, please allow me to speak a word."

This clearly pushes Zhang Heniang to the forefront to shield from the wind and rain—should anyone inquire in the future, Tan Zong can easily place all the blame on Zhang Heniang, while he only needs to hide behind him

In reality, before he set out, Tan Zong had already calculated everything in his mind: given the situation with Inspector Cao, it was likely that a visit to the Nanjing prison was unavoidable. However, even if he had to go, he could not afford to be confused about it; if someone were to play tricks on him inside, resulting in a death by drowning or a death while hiding, that would be quite detrimental.

Although Tan Zong was trying his best to conceal it, the pain was not so easily endured. Even if he could refrain from touching it with his hands, the expression on his face was impossible to hide: one could see Tan Zong straining to restrain his limbs, yet his body trembled uncontrollably, and his face was contorted in grimaces.

"I will go and check the papers now." Cao Qiaomu gestured for Zhang Heniang to go first, and then said to the two people behind him, "You should go to the city and find a good doctor. It is essential to ensure that Scholar Tan receives proper treatment."

It had been mentioned earlier that for some reason, He Nian found Tan Zong extremely pleasing to the eye. At this moment, seeing Tan Zong being taken away as a suspect in arson right in front of him, he could no longer contain himself, which led to his call to stop the proceedings.

After Tan Zong arrived from the future to this exceedingly strange ancient era, apart from attending a local examination in the first three days, he spent the following days drinking with his classmates, while the rest of his time was devoted to studying historical texts and legal codes, with the Da Shun Law being of utmost importance.

Hearing this statement from the inspector, Tan Zong was momentarily taken aback: he had gone to great lengths to create such a scene, and had raised his voice to summon you all, precisely to avoid such a situation. Now, it turned out well; he had not only driven away the wolves but had also summoned the tiger—if he were truly locked away and thrown into a prison, it would likely be difficult to get out again

What other urgent matters could possibly compare to the importance of Xiaoman! Wang Dong withdrew his right hand from the embrace of the singer, then reached into Xiaoman's collar: "Even if the officials were to arrive now, I would still have them wait until I have completed the rites of Zhou Gong with my dear Xiaoman before addressing them"

At that moment, Supervisor Cao did not seem to anticipate that Tan Zong would suddenly emerge, thus regarding Tan Zong with a look of suspicion, as if he could not quite understand what Tan Zong intended to do this time

As soon as Tan Zong finished speaking, Zhang Henian exclaimed "Ah!" and then his expression suddenly changed to one of joy, looking at Tan Zong with increasingly appreciative eyes.

Previously, Zhang Heniang intended to say that Tan Zong was a Yuyuan, but at this moment, Inspector Cao is saying that Tan Zong is a Xiucai (the terms Xiucai and Tongsheng refer to the same level but are different expressions). Just this discrepancy in titles alone makes it somewhat difficult to reach a consensus, not to mention that the meanings in their words likely diverge even further.

Fortunately, the original deadlock was broken by my own efforts, otherwise I would still be unaware of what traps the Wang residence had left for me. Now, with the protection of Cao Qiaomu and the support of Zhang Henian, I need not worry about anything else. As I thought of this, Tan Zong turned around and happened to see the so-called mute servant rushing out from the fire scene

At this point, Zhang Heniang's gaze swept over Tan Zong, who was dressed like a beggar on the street, and a slight sense of guilt arose in his heart. He continued, "Moreover, Tan Yayuan was trapped in the fire while trying to save others and sustained these injuries. It is necessary to invite a renowned physician to treat Tan Yayuan. Even his scholar's robe has been ruined beyond recognition, which truly tarnishes our identity as scholars. It must be replaced."

It was said that this was the first time Tan Zong learned that the inspector, who had always appeared as a spokesperson, actually had the surname Cao

This is a typical case of getting into trouble without even having eaten the pork

Such scheming, it is quite remarkable how Tan Zong, a person yet to enter the officialdom, can handle it so adeptly. To outsiders, it may seem somewhat terrifying. However, if one were to know that Tan Zong had also served as a mid-level official in a later life, particularly in the tax department, which is one of the most complex sectors, perhaps they would not be so surprised. In the realm of officialdom, the most challenging aspect is the survival strategy of these minor leaders. The most important thing is to ensure that the leaders remember your name and recognize your talent; promotion is secondary—after all, it is only a matter of time.

Oh? Why has she come? Wang Dong seemed somewhat displeased with Xiaoman's arrival, pondering for a long time before finally ordering someone to bring Xiaoman in

Although Tan Zong has only worked in taxation, he is quite knowledgeable about the intricacies involved, even if he cannot claim to be an expert. After all, this is how it has been done throughout history—it's easy to get in, but difficult to get out

Tan Zong truly feels a sense of regret

However, just by observing the frequent exchanges between the individuals across from him, Tan Zong could infer that there seemed to be a divergence among the three.

At this moment, Tan Zong realized that these individuals were not merely communicating through eye contact; their hands hidden in their sleeves were also continuously making gestures, occasionally raising and lowering the wide sleeves, clearly engaging in sign language communication

However, the Da Shun Law defines scholars quite strictly. Only those who pass the provincial examination can be called scholars! Others, even the children of officials, do not fall into this category. Naturally, the children of the royal family are treated separately, as they have their own royal family laws and are not subject to the penalties of the Da Shun Law. However, Tan Zong has, whether intentionally or unintentionally, investigated and found that the Da Shun Dynasty actually imposed quite strict discipline on the royal family, and there are indeed instances where princes were punished equally with commoners for their crimes—this, of course, is a legacy left by the founding emperor himself. However, Tan Zong has, whether intentionally or unintentionally, investigated and found that the Da Shun Dynasty actually imposed quite strict discipline on the royal family, and there are indeed instances where princes were punished equally with commoners for their crimes—this, of course, is a legacy left by the founding emperor himself.

Amidst the elegant sounds of silk and bamboo, Wang Dong leaned sideways against a songstress, his pair of slender hands, akin to those of a woman, had already slipped through the songstress's garment and ventured inside. Just by observing the look of enjoyment on Wang Dong's face and the subtle hint of spring on the songstress's face, even a blind person would know where Wang Dong's hands were placed

The students are unaware of this matter and do not dare to make reckless guesses. Tan Zong fully understood Zhang Heniang's brilliant remark of "accomplice" and naturally followed suit. The phrase "do not dare to make reckless guesses" is even more exquisite, as it articulates his own thoughts—strongly agreeing with Zhang Heniang—while carefully distancing himself from the matter.

As he watched the two individuals slowly approach, Tan Zong felt a surge of inner turmoil, uncertain whether it would be better to submit willingly, engage in a physical confrontation, or perhaps make a few statements proclaiming the glory of democracy to assert his innocence

In truth, at this moment, Tan Zong was quite clear that if Zhang Heniang continued to argue with Supervisor Cao, it was likely that even trivial matters would lead to some disputes. After this storm had passed, although Zhang Heniang would not express it outwardly, he would certainly feel quite regretful for having confronted Supervisor Cao. It was possible that he might even develop other thoughts about Tan Zong himself, and at that time, the favorable impression Tan Zong had previously made would surely be turned upside down.

Therefore, Tan Zong has nearly ten burn injuries of various sizes on his body. The most severe area is not the arm that Zhang Heniang saw, but rather Tan Zong's back. Tan Zong estimates that the entire back might have had a layer of skin burned off by the high temperature of the bookshelf. Previously, it was only because Tan Zong was afraid that he would lose his ability to mediate, leading to an irreversible situation, that he had been enduring it all along.

At this moment, Tan Zong was preoccupied with holding Zhang Heniang's old feet, and did not notice that the faces of the several inspectors flashed with a hint of regret when they heard Tan Zong mention that the thief had been taken away.

Before the two individuals could approach Tan Zong, Zhang Heniang jumped out first, standing directly in front of Tan Zong, and scolded, "Hold on!"

"Oh, Master Zhang, do you have any further instructions?" The leading inspector frowned slightly, waved his hand, and signaled to stop.

The inspector at the forefront exchanged glances with the two individuals behind, seemingly communicating once more, yet this was noticed by Tan Zong.

At this moment, the situation no longer allows Zhang Heniang to take a step back; he is like a bowstringed arrow that must be released, even if it means forcing himself to move forward with determination.

Although this young man has achieved success at a young age, it is not due to having influential connections, but rather his exceptional interpersonal skills. Whether among colleagues or superiors, no one has spoken ill of him. He is also adept at his work and possesses excellent writing skills, which has led to consistent praise from the Ministry of Personnel over the years