Chapter 0004 Handover

Once seated in the second hall, before Zhou Zhongliang had the chance to have tea served, Huang Jie spoke up: "Lord Liu, your urgent report has been received by the governor. However, is this criminal truly guilty? It is crucial to understand that this matter is of great importance. The governor has already dispatched someone to urgently report to the capital, and not a single detail can be overlooked!"

Indeed, Zhou Zhongliang's idea sounds quite good, instantly brightening Huang Jie's eyes. Using the family members of officials for travel to avoid drawing attention is certainly much more convenient than escorting in a prison vehicle, and it also allows for faster travel with fewer potential troubles along the way. As for the manpower, it turns out to be just right.

Lord Liu, this news about the capture of Zhu San's grandson has spread throughout your county, hasn't it

Seeing Liu Jun with a smile so wide he could hardly close his mouth, Huang Jie felt a mix of envy, jealousy, and resentment. Previously, with the incidents of the Siming Mountain rebellion and the Zhu San Prince's case occurring in quick succession, Yuyao County was at the forefront of the turmoil. However, with the rebels just recently suppressed and the Zhu San case still unresolved, Liu Jun was merely managing to survive in his position as the county magistrate. Yet, anyone with discernment knew that Liu Jun, this county magistrate, was as good as a dead fish, utterly beyond redemption. Who would have thought that this dead fish could actually turn over? Although Liu Jun had only captured Zhu San's grandson, it is important to recognize that the Zhu San Prince case had been haunting the court since the fall of the Ming Dynasty, and everyone in the court viewed it as a thorn in their side. Now that the entire Zhu San family had been apprehended, and with the Zhu San case still not fully resolved, Liu Jun's actions could balance out his merits and faults. This achievement, when reported, might bring great joy to the emperor, potentially allowing Liu Jun to advance further.

Congratulations, Lord Liu. I did not expect that Lord Liu would actually be able to obtain Zhu San's grandson. This is indeed a significant achievement

Li Erzhuang nodded in satisfaction, Wang Zhong had made good arrangements, Zhu Yicheng was indeed a key suspect, and the matter was of great importance; absolutely no accidents could occur before the person was handed over.

Huang Jiemei's eyebrows suddenly twitched, and he raised his hand to stop Wu Gang, who was about to speak. Although Liu Jun was an ordinary official, he did make a good point with this statement. Zhu San had been hiding under an alias in Yuyao County for several decades, and many people in Yuyao County were familiar with him. If the dispatched personnel had any connections to Zhu San's family, it would instead jeopardize the mission on the way.

"Return to the master, the hour of Chen is about to pass," Li Erzhuang said repeatedly.

A foul, moldy smell wafted from the bowl, containing a porridge of indiscernible color. This kind of thing, one would not even consider eating, let alone feeding to pigs. In the past, Zhu Yicheng would not have even glanced at it, but now, filled with anxiety and driven by hunger, he was already desperate. Zhu Yicheng eagerly leaned forward, opened his mouth wide, and gulped it down in a few swallows.

Wuwu... Wuwuwu... Like a person on the verge of drowning grasping for the last straw of salvation, Zhu Yicheng struggled with the last of his strength, trying to raise his head in an effort to seek help from the newcomer

"Mr. Huang, I have an idea that I am unsure whether I should share or not," said Zhou Zhongliang, noticing Huang Jie frowning slightly with a serious expression.

There, there, all of this is thanks to the Emperor's great fortune, as well as the wisdom of the Grand Governor and the Prefect. I am merely fulfilling my duties." Liu Jun cupped his hands in the direction of the capital, yet the trace of pride and excitement that could not be concealed in his expression was evident

The young laborer was concerned, and upon seeing the urgent report from the elder master, the governor immediately dispatched Lord Huang and Captain Wu, along with their subordinates, to hasten back day and night

Liu Jun nodded in satisfaction, as Huang Jie and Wu Gang arrived. The hot potato that had been locked away in the prison could finally be sent out, thus solidifying his own contributions.

Understood, I understand..." Wang Zhonglian nodded repeatedly, noticing that Wang San beside him still looked dazed, he hurriedly kicked him. Coming back to his senses, Wang San quickly mimicked Wang Zhong's manner, nodding and bowing to Li Erzhuang.

Startled and terrified, Zhu Yicheng, who had not eaten or drunk anything, finally fell into a drowsy sleep in the dim, damp, and cold cell. He did not know how long he had slept, but when he opened his eyes, he discovered a vague figure squatting in front of him.

Oh, what good strategy does the old master have

Huang Jie opened the statement and examined it closely, listening to Zhou Zhongliang's narration without a hint of emotion on his face. After carefully reviewing it and asking a few detailed questions, which Zhou Zhongliang answered one by one, a faint smile finally appeared on Huang Jie's previously stern face

Lord Huang! Lord Wu! Both of you have worked hard on your journey

"Bah! I gave you congee because I was afraid you would starve to death in prison, yet you have the audacity to drag me down with you? Damn it!" Wang Zhong's expression changed instantly, and with a heavy kick, he nearly knocked Zhu Yicheng unconscious. Without saying another word, he yanked the gasping Zhu Yicheng and shoved that rag back into his mouth, cursing as he turned and left the cell.

Is there no other situation?

What time is it now?" Liu Jun asked while yawning, looking at the sky outside

This is good, keep a close watch on everything! If something goes wrong, don't just think of yourself; even I will have to... Do you understand?

Rest assured, he is being kept well in prison. However, this young man appears rather frail, and the prison is damp and cold. I am concerned that something might happen to him, so I specifically went to give him half a bowl of porridge to drink.

Thank you for your hard work, was the journey smooth all the way?

"Lord Liu, this is the official letter from the Prefect for you, please take a look." Huang Jie took out an official letter from his pocket. Liu Jun received it with both hands and upon examining it, confirmed that it was indeed the letter from Prefect Zhang Chaozong addressed to him. It clearly stated that Liu Jun was to hand over to Huang Jie, and after verifying the accuracy of the testimony, the criminal should be transferred and escorted to the capital, Hangzhou.

This is unacceptable! It's far too few! At least twenty people or more are needed!" Upon hearing this, Wu Gang's eyes widened in disbelief as he held out his palm and waved it in front of Liu Jun.

Li Erzhuang did not stay long in the prison; after asking a few questions, he hurriedly left. Upon returning to the county office, he reported the situation to Liu Jun, who was waiting in the second hall. After listening to the report, Liu Jun, who had not slept all night, finally felt relieved

"I fear someone has returned, County Magistrate, shall I go take a look?" Zhou Zhongliang's face immediately brightened, and he quickly stood up. Liu Jun also rose and said, "Let's go together." After saying this, Zhou Zhongliang took the lead, with Liu Jun following behind, and the two hurriedly exited the second hall

Disguised travel? Huang Jie felt a stir in his heart and turned his gaze towards Zhou Zhongliang, who immediately explained that he suggested procuring a large vehicle to hide the prisoner Zhu Yicheng inside. Then, the group would pretend to be ordinary officials' families traveling, quietly heading to the capital. This way, they could maintain strict confidentiality while traveling light, and the journey of 300 li could be completed in just two days based on their pace.

Upon reflecting on this, Huang Jie could not help but sigh inwardly at the whims of fate. However, this is not entirely a bad thing; the Zhu San Taizi case has already shaken the world, and in recent years, Zhejiang has been plagued by numerous major cases, making it a tumultuous time. The prominent figures in the capital, including the Emperor, have expressed considerable criticism towards the officials in Zhejiang. The resolution of this case is beneficial for them.

Having seen the esteemed lord, he dismounted and looked up to see Liu Jun and Zhou Zhongliang hurrying out of the county office. Li Guoshi quickly went to greet them and bowed respectfully to Liu Jun.

Big brother, big brother! Please have mercy, I am not a bad person. Please help me, let me go... let me go... as long as you take me out, I will definitely repay you generously...

This... Liu Jun's expression suddenly changed to one of difficulty. Although the governor Zhang Chaozong had mentioned this matter briefly in the official document, the number of regular officers in the three classes of the Yuyiao County yamen was not large. From the head constable to the squad leader, and including the auxiliary laborers, there were only a little over fifty people in total. Usually, this number was sufficient for routine matters, but this situation could not be treated lightly. Upon careful consideration, there were hardly any who could be truly relied upon. Moreover, with the recent defeat of the bandits in the Siming Mountains, the local security personnel in Yuyiao County were already stretched thin, and only a few could be allocated for this task.

Since the prisoner has been verified without error, we shall proceed to escort the prisoner to the capital as per the arrangements of the governor.

Liu Jun took a few steps forward to meet Huang Jie and Wu Gang. Huang Jie, who had just dismounted, wore a stern expression and cupped his hands in greeting without speaking. Meanwhile, the impatient Wu Gang quickly asked, "Lord Liu, where is the prisoner now?"

"By the way, why hasn't Li Guoshi returned after such a long time?" Liu Jun frowned and pondered for a moment before saying, "Li Er, go to the city gate and take a look. If Li Guoshi comes back, report to me immediately!"

"You little brat! What are you shouting about? Be honest with me!" Wang Zhong scolded, squatting down to grab Zhu Yicheng, pulling out the rag stuffed in his mouth, and holding up a broken bowl in his left hand: "Drink!"

"How is the person?" The county's criminal justice officer, Li Erzhuang, entered the room and asked eagerly.

This is certainly the case, but I wonder when Lord Huang plans to set off

"All of this is for the state affairs and for His Majesty, so I certainly have no objections. I kindly ask Lord Huang to take care of me along the way." Zhou Zhongliang did not expect Huang Jie to mention his name, but this was not a bad thing for him. As long as he escorted the imperial prisoner to the capital, this journey would be considered a contribution on his part. Without a moment's hesitation, Zhou Zhongliang replied decisively.

After speaking, Huang Jie squinted his eyes and stared at Liu Jun, waiting for his response. Liu Jun had long anticipated that Huang Jie would ask this question, so he immediately exchanged a glance with Zhou Zhongliang, who understood and stepped forward to present the prepared statement, while also recounting to Huang Jie the process of capturing Zhu Yicheng and the subsequent interrogation.

The more Huang Jie contemplated this method, the more suitable it seemed. However, he still offered some of his own opinions regarding the details. Of course, neither Liu Jun nor Zhou Zhongliang would refute the suggestions put forth by Huang Jie; they simply did not expect him to propose that one carriage would not suffice, and that ideally, two carriages should be arranged. This not only appeared more like the travel arrangements of an official's family but also served as a precaution in case a carriage needed to be replaced on the road. Additionally, Huang Jie requested that Zhou Zhongliang accompany them on the journey. In his view, since it was the travel of an official's family, the absence of a servant or steward would be a flaw, and among those present, only Zhou Zhongliang could assume that role.

In accordance with your instructions, my nephew and I have remained here without leaving even a step, and we have not slept all night

Esteemed guests, your journey has been arduous, please come in

"Here he comes! My elder brother has finally returned!" As soon as he entered the hall, he saw Li Erzhuang rushing in, panting heavily. Upon hearing that Li Guoshi had returned, Liu Jun felt a sudden sense of relief and quickly asked where he was. Li Erzhuang replied that he was on his way to the county office. No sooner had he finished speaking than the sound of hooves was heard from outside.

After finishing, Zhu Yicheng still lingered over the remnants of the porridge at the corner of his mouth, and then seized the opportunity to earnestly plead with Wang Zhong.

Lord Wu, our county does not station troops, and we truly cannot spare these twenty men. Moreover, since this matter concerns a crime against the emperor, the personnel dispatched must be reliable. Both of you gentlemen know that Zhu San has been hiding in our county for several decades, and if something were to happen...

Lord Liu's concerns are not without reason, but it seems that the number of people is indeed a bit insufficient... It can be imagined that only five people can be dispatched from Yuyao County, and with the ten or so people I brought, it does not exceed twenty in total. The distance from Yuyao to the capital is nearly 300 li, and such a number of people is likely not enough

"Lord Huang, please rest assured. My lord understands the gravity of the matter and would not dare to leak any information regarding this significant issue. Only a handful of people in the entire county are aware of his identity." Zhou Zhongliang explained from the side, and Huang Jie felt reassured, giving a slight nod.

Huang Jie nodded and led Wu Gang to follow Liu Jun into the county office

The sky outside has gradually brightened, and the long night has finally passed. In Wang Zhong's view, Zhu Yicheng, as a convicted criminal, is certainly destined for execution. However, given his special status, it would not be acceptable for him to die inexplicably in prison, which is why there was the act of giving him a bowl of porridge. Upon returning to the duty room, just as Wang Zhong sat down and took a sip of water, a series of loud knocks echoed from outside.

This matter is neither too early nor too late, let us prepare immediately and set off at noon said Huang Jie after a moment of thought, while glancing at Wu Gang. Wu Gang showed no objection and immediately expressed his agreement, but he proposed a condition on the spot. Due to the urgency of the situation, their group had come hastily and was somewhat short on personnel. For safety reasons, he requested that Yuyao County allocate some personnel to accompany them in escorting the prisoner.

Hastily arriving at the county office's main gate, Liu Jun saw that the leading group had just arrived, with the three individuals at the forefront dismounting from their horses in a state of travel fatigue. One of them was Li Guoshi, whom Liu Jun had sent to deliver the message, and the other two were also known to Liu Jun: one was the prefect Huang Jie, and the other, dressed in the uniform of a green camp captain, was Captain Wu Gang.

"Good! Master Zhou is loyal to the state affairs, courageous in taking responsibility, and truly deserving of the name of loyalty and integrity." Huang Jie expressed his satisfaction with this remark, to which Zhou Zhongliang humbly replied that he did not deserve such praise

Li Erzhuang hurriedly responded with an exclamation and rushed away, leaving Liu Jun in the second hall anxiously waiting

In less than half an hour, Liu Jun and Zhou Zhongliang were engaged in casual conversation, when they faintly heard the sound of hurried footsteps approaching from a distance

Li Er Ye! Wang Zhong quickly stood up and, along with Wang San, walked briskly to the door. He opened the small window on the door, glanced outside, and then hurriedly opened the door

"I do not dare to claim to have good advice; I am merely offering a humble opinion." Zhou Zhongliang said with cupped hands: "I believe that parading the imperial prisoner in a grand manner may not be appropriate. Firstly, the number of personnel is somewhat insufficient, and secondly, this could easily lead to leaks of information. It would be more convenient to disguise ourselves for the journey instead."

"Old Master, how about you accompany Lord Huang on a trip?" Liu Jun said with a smile to Zhou Zhongliang

Upon hearing this, both Wu Gang and Huang Jie could not help but breathe a sigh of relief. Last night, Li Guoshi had hurried to the government office to seek an audience with the governor, Zhang Chaozong. After reading Liu Jun's letter, Zhang Chaozong was both surprised and delighted. He immediately summoned Huang Jie and Wu Gang, instructing them to take people and accompany Li Guoshi back to Yuyao County to escort the imperial criminal to the provincial capital of Hangzhou. At the same time, he prepared another letter to be sent urgently to the governor's office, along with the letter from Liu Jun.

They are currently detained in the county jail, rest assured, both gentlemen are in good health