Chapter 2

"The master has gone to the flower house, so I took the opportunity to come back for a meal." Seeing him furrow his brows, she chuckled, "Brother Yilang, it’s nothing to worry about. I am not a fifteen or sixteen-year-old girl; I understand the dynamics of the officialdom... It is just like that. The master finds me talkative, so he changed his attendant, and I came back to lend a hand. Now it is July, you cannot stand the sun; how is Huaining?"

If you are asking whether it is enough to eat to your heart's content in winter, then it is definitely sufficient

This person will definitely eliminate you in a very short period of time next. Feng Yilang did not hide this from her

Seeing a woman turn in from the alley, he quickly got up and greeted her

After a while, the woman left with a beaming smile.

What punishment did the county magistrate impose on him

To create chaos in the county of Lezhi is not a difficult task for him. First, he targets the insignificant followers, applying pressure on the governor, who then instructs the county magistrate to first examine the case, followed by enticing the plaintiffs, witnesses, and other relevant individuals one by one. With the public pointing fingers, how can one still defend the truth when faced with a hundred accusations?

She resigned herself and said, "Alright, please allow me to go out to attract customers."

She felt suspicious inside, but still nodded and took the food, burying her head in eating

Is it true that all colleagues in the public office jointly reported him, without exception

Ruan Dong took a deep breath, and when she raised her small face again, she smiled energetically and said

It has been closed for a day and a night.

No officials came to visit, and he was pleased to have a leisurely time

He noticed that the texture of the tofu today was slightly inferior, unlike usual. However, it did not matter much; everyone said he enjoyed wealth and luxury, and should be indulgent by nature. Yet, when it comes to being content with circumstances, he certainly does not fall short of that Ruan Dong Gu.

"It is not your fault," Feng Yilang said helplessly. Dong Gu was eating with great satisfaction, and anyone who saw her would think she was enjoying a delicacy of the mortal world

The East asked unexpectedly:

Feng Yilang gripped the tooth root tightly, determined not to let Dong Gu die inexplicably in this dungeon

Feng Yilang chuckled softly, seeing that she fully accepted this plan, and secretly relaxed part of his mind. He had privately agreed with Huaining that if absolutely necessary, it was permissible to harm others, but he would not mention such matters to her.

She exclaimed, "Brother Yichiro, the county jail does provide meals, you don't need to go out of your way..."

Before noon, someone came specifically to visit the prison.

At the innermost part, there is a small cell surrounded by iron bars, measuring approximately one and a half times the width and length of a person. Inside, a young man dressed in white clothes and white pants is lying on the ground, seemingly writing something.

Feng Yilang followed her gaze and asked with a smile, "Auntie, would you like to buy some tofu? How many pieces do you need?"

So soon? According to the order of the cases, Cheng's case should be heard in a few days, but the county magistrate is willing to advance it, which she could not have asked for. "Alright, I will return immediately. Brother Yilang, see you tonight, and Huaining need not come to pick me up; I will definitely return home on time." With that, she hurriedly followed her colleagues away.

Feng Yilang was neither angry nor upset with her, he simply said

She touched her nose and smiled shyly, saying

This is the first bowl of Fengning tofu soup she has eaten, and it seems like many soft worms are crawling around in her throat... If she hides in the corner and spits it out, will Brother Ichirō be sad

So, who is it really? Is it Huai Zhen that we are dealing with, or Ruan Dongqian?

My younger brother is not a death row inmate, so I should be able to visit her, right? Moreover, I am only bringing her food, it shouldn't be a problem. By the way, this amount of money is for the visitation fee, please accept it, dear prison officer

After carefully observing her slightly fatigued expression, Feng Yilang silently took the food out of the box

The food sent by the jailer is not to be touched by you. Even if it is said to be delivered on my behalf, you still cannot eat it, do you understand

"Is this month's business enough to make a living?" Huaining asked. The accounts had always been managed by Feng Yilang; he only needed to focus on his work. As for that immensely strong senior sister and foster sister, she was solely responsible for enjoying the benefits.

Dongfang turned to look at Qingyi and said with interest

You go and make arrangements, find someone to bribe Huai Zhen, and give him these two options to choose from. If he is truly foolish enough to choose his own demise, you can then step in and have the county magistrate sentence him to death. Remember, no matter what choice Huai Zhen makes, the bigger the commotion, the better; it would be best if it spreads that Dongfang Fei is indeed in Lezhi County.

At this moment, another person entered the alley. Feng Yilang recognized him as a regular customer and approached to greet him again

No. Huaining did not even raise his head

"Life here is still bearable," Huaining suddenly said, sheathing her sword and watching the delicate and petite figure depart.

I am aware. Dongfang will not seek other pleasures, for his heart and mind are solely focused on Dongfu. He has always been open with Dongfu about everything, but this time, he wishes to keep something from her

Ruan Dong hung her small face down, continuing to pick at the white rice, without responding

A young man dressed in moon-white clothing and trousers, with a black long belt around his waist, returned to the "Fengning Tofu Shop" while carrying a small rice bucket.

"Wait a moment, Ichiro, I do not want you to do this—" I tried to hold him back, but he brushed off my hand and avoided me.

Huaining suddenly stood up, returned to the shop, took out a large bowl, and forcefully placed the tofu soup in front of her.

Temporarily detained, to be reviewed on another day

You are right, this is an opportunity. However, do not forget that there are many cases that I taught you to solve. After you come out, I will explain them to you in detail.

Dongfang Fei was taken aback again, staring at the person in blue. "Both the witness and the evidence are present, why postpone the trial to another day?"

Dogs bite dogs, leaving no bones behind! This has alarmed the governor and the provincial officials, making it known to the world the disgraceful affairs at the gates of Lezhi County; let Ruan Donggu know that it is precisely because the East is not in Lezhi County that such a scandalous incident involving the officials has occurred

Regardless, it is elegantly termed as two endings for one to choose from, but he has long anticipated which one Huai Zhen would select, and he desires this very outcome

Feng Yilang was taken aback for a moment, and after pondering for a while, he asked: "How will you respond to him?"

Feng Yilang walked towards the shop and said with a smile

She thought for a moment and nodded in agreement

Brother Yichiro, I have always wanted to document the two years when I impersonated Ruan Dongqian as the county magistrate, as it may be helpful for the new county magistrate. Unfortunately, I am already twenty-five this year and have not had any spare time..." She made a funny face and said with a smile, "Perhaps now is an opportunity.

Feng Yilang did not dare to look at her and responded softly.

Ruan Dong moved a stool to sit down, smiling as she received the bowl filled to the brim with white rice, topped with crumbled tofu. She turned a blind eye to everything else; as long as there was food to eat, she was content.

Having spent many years in the officialdom, he has a profound understanding of human nature. Huai Zhen will only choose the first path of survival, for in this world, there is no other fool to be found besides Ruan Dong.

This truly caught me by surprise. According to the imperial law, embezzlers are severely punished; this is a grave offense. The imperial law is merely used to set an example, and anyone who admits to it is seeking their own demise

He is making tofu in the back... Since it's winter, you should eat first. He brought over the bowls and chopsticks, watching her wipe the table with a cloth, while effortlessly lifting the tofu soup bucket with one hand.

So, has there been a rift with the people at the county office? Feng Yilang has watched her grow up since childhood and naturally understands her temperament

In fact, the two options he provided are quite simple

In winter, you should understand the nature of Dong Fang Fei. He is a man of his word, but he enjoys challenges. If he encounters others...

A chill wind surged up her spine. She made every effort to remain calm, facing her two adoptive brothers with an innocent smile.

After nightfall, the officials remaining at the county office were few, most having gone to pursue the horse. They would not anticipate that what Brother Yilang wanted was merely this cloud of smoke, while Huaining was responsible for dealing with the remaining individuals. Once I have safely departed, he will then extricate himself, correct

Do you know the reason why the East has not yet arrived?

"Brother Yichiro, Huaining, I am truly making an effort to treat it as a delicacy, and it is absolutely not my intention to scare away the guests"

The petty person was unable to attend the court hearing yesterday and could only listen to the idle chatter of the common people. The esteemed official's clever strategy has successfully framed Huai Zhen.

"Embrace the truth," he called softly

The jailer quickly waved his hand. "Boss Feng, I cannot accept your money for the books, but visiting is fine. It's just..." He glanced at Huaining and candidly said, "Young Master Huaining led the constables to capture the bandits that day, and his skills are well-known. If he were to break out of prison, we would be utterly powerless to resist..."

The competition and strife among the county officials is no different from the intrigues within the court; the only difference is that the stakes are not as high, and it does not lead to loss of life. After observing for a few months, he noted that the officials within the county government, at most, are driven by personal desires, but it has not yet reached the point of putting someone to death

Alright, we share both hardships and joys. This time, no one shall be left alone.

I understand your concerns. Huaining is indeed a master, but even a low-skilled constable, as long as they employ a strategy of overwhelming numbers, should not fear being unable to capture him. Huaining, you stay outside while I go in to see Huaizhen

She receives a salary every month, but she spends it all, contributing nothing to the store

The aunt responded with a sound, gazing intently at Ruan Donggu, who was diligently scooping up rice.

He said that someone arranged for him to visit me, urging me to turn against a colleague in order to have a chance of survival

In winter, at that time, I will split into two groups with Huaining. I will set fire to the stable, causing the official horses to run, and Huaining will come to rescue you. " He took out another layer from the food box, revealing a prison guard's uniform. " Huaining is merely a distraction; the constables and jailers will definitely employ a human wave tactic, not allowing him to approach the prison door even a step. Unfortunately, they do not know that we have one greatest secret weapon.

She sighed softly and said, "Brother Yilang, before you arrived, there was also a stranger who came to visit."

Just know that. Huaining took the well-served meal from Feng Yilang and sat in front of her, burying his head in the food.

Feng Yilang turned a deaf ear, stepped forward, clasped his fists, and spoke loudly

What secret weapon? She looked puzzled

"... ... Huaining, I really dislike eating tofu alone ... ..." she protested. Tofu is soft, watery, and cool, providing no sense of fullness at all; it makes her want to cry.

Brother Ichiro, I have returned

The atmosphere in the east is quite pleasant, as chopsticks are lifted to enjoy the dishes. The kitchen of the restaurant is aware that esteemed guests have reserved a private room for an extended period, and every day they strive to change the menu, yet it always revolves around the renowned dishes of the capital.

"They are already trapped in a predicament, yet they still have the heart to seek justice for the common people?" Dongfang Fei chuckled, "What kind of fool is this? The plaintiff would rather swallow this grievance than pursue it, yet he still stirs up trouble? Does he think that with the county magistrate's protection, he can escape unscathed? He insists that this loyal follower will not see the sun of tomorrow!"

The tofu shop owner, while cleaning the desk, said in surprise: "Dong Gu, aren't you supposed to be at ... ... at noon"

It does not matter. If he truly stays somewhere to seek enjoyment, I only hope that he does not play with lives

He is in his twenties, with a face like a lotus flower, eyes like dots of ink, lips resembling the color of peach blossoms, and a vibrant energy that invigorates those who behold him

Tell her, this time I will listen to you

Feng Yilang fell silent for a moment and admitted

Was there no coercion involved? What tricks did the county magistrate employ to make him willingly confess to his guilt

She sighed again and said, "Brother Yichiro, you must not do anything wrong, for I fear I will not be able to handle you."

I told him, it is impossible. If hundreds of officials from the county government are involved in this case, the lives of the county residents will inevitably be greatly affected, and it may even shake the foundation of the dynasty. If the court sends troops to station here, it will be the common people of Lezhi County who suffer the consequences

He does not believe that he will wait for her

I know," she whispered. This point, she had thought of long ago

Suddenly, he caught sight of the article she had been writing earlier and asked, "What are you writing?"

The colleague with the surname Wei glanced back at the shop and then immediately averted his gaze. Feng Yilang assumed that this person was not accustomed to his foreign appearance and did not take it to heart at the moment

So, does this county magistrate have a heart to protect his own? Dongfang Fei did not agree and asked again: "Then can Huai Zhen know that the testimonies from the entire county government are consistent?"

Feng Yilang shook his head with a light smile, suddenly recalling something, and said

Feng Yilang's expression softened as he spoke gently

She pressed her lips together and remained silent

The transition between the old and new county magistrates requires the outgoing magistrate to complete the tasks that should be accomplished during their tenure, with the collection of taxes being the most crucial aspect, and simultaneously serving as the last opportunity for the magistrate to benefit personally.

What Ichiro said is true. He is a busy person, so it is not surprising if he has something urgent come up unexpectedly

Ruan Dong was just about to serve another bowl of rice when he suddenly caught sight of Huai Ning's fierce gaze, while Yi Lang Ge let out a sigh

The blue-clad attendant received the order and went downstairs to confirm that the accompanying warrior had fulfilled his duty of protection, before swiftly disappearing into the street

Not responding means enjoying this kind of life. Indeed, life may be a bit impoverished, but living peacefully and happily as a trio has always been his dream.

Huaining speaks little, and she understands this. This shop is almost entirely supported by the savings of her brother and Huaining; her contribution is limited, which makes her feel quite guilty

Feng Yilang laughed and said, "Now that you are a close attendant, how can you casually invite guests? How about this, you can leave work early today, don't stay in the county office all the time. I will have Huaining come to pick you up, and we can have dinner together."

"Do you sell tofu, ma'am?" He had silver hair, fair skin, and blue eyes. Having just opened a tofu shop, it was common for him to go half a month without any customers. Eventually, Huaining stood in front of the shop to conduct business. As time passed, the neighbors noticed that his white hair posed no threat, and gradually, some began to chat with him and buy tofu.

"Ichiro, are you implying that I cannot wait for him because he has found another challenge and no longer takes me seriously?"

Brother Ichiro, I have been thinking that I seem to have been living off idle means, entirely relying on you and Huaining to support me

Upon hearing this, Feng Yilang finally breathed a sigh of relief, as he had been genuinely worried that she would stubbornly refuse to leave.

What happened? Feng Yilang placed several plates of pickled vegetables, allowing her to eat her fill

"He is not greedy, how could I easily frame him?" Dongfang Fei said with a smile, "Is he in prison now?"

Eat

Huaining drew his sword from its sheath without uttering a word

Dongfang's unwavering dedication to winter is unlike that of ordinary people, so he will inevitably appear sooner or later. Until then, let the three siblings enjoy a period of peaceful and happy time together

"Winter is over." Feng Yilang lowered his voice and said, "You listen to what I say. I have a relationship with Huaining as a mother-in-law and daughter-in-law. They dare not speak openly, but I can be certain that someone has bribed them."

Feng Yilang need not look back; just by observing the change in her expression, he knew he was a step too late. No matter how he planned, it was still too late! Who exactly is so eager to put him and his family to death?

She laughed cheerfully and said, "I am not eating tofu; I am eating the rice from the restaurant at the corner of the alley next door, and it is really delicious"

Firstly, if one does not retaliate, one will only end up being bitten by others. Such individuals are superfluous in this world, so let the county magistrate privately sentence him to death.

Feng Yilang regained his composure and said gently, "Feel free to ask anything."

"Brother Ichiro, I am already in my twenties, and my actions are not reckless. I swear, I have never intentionally offended anyone..." Seeing him silently gazing at her, she had no choice but to confess: "In another six months, the lord will be returning to his hometown. Before he leaves office, all taxes must be fully paid. Unless the people in the county are so impoverished that they have no food to eat, they will not miss paying what is due. The county government should not shift any excess costs onto the people."

What you said makes sense. Furthermore, even if you testify in court, there is no guarantee that you won't fall victim to that person's malice. This reckless method of mutual harm is not commonly used in the East, but it should not be attributed to him. He is too preoccupied with finding Dong to have the time to put her in danger.

"Then why do you always compete with me for the vegetables?" She was completely baffled

Huaining did not respond and turned to go prepare the soup

After Huaining handed the lunchbox to Feng Yilang, he stepped back a few paces. The two exchanged a brief glance, and he said in a low voice:

Feng Yilang knew that her sadness would not last long, so he picked up his chopsticks to eat. After a while, he casually said:

Fengning Tofu Shop is located at the entrance of the alley, in a rather mediocre area, and the shop is quite small. It mainly sells everyday tofu and tofu soup, with a large tree nearby providing shade. When the shop first opened, she and Huaining worked overnight to build a sunshade, all for his frail body. Feng Yilang instinctively brushed his silver hair and smiled as he stepped forward

Winter, we all know where you have used this silver, and you are not at fault. This time, our enemy is hiding in the shadows, and this person is blocking all your paths to death. Their target is not the Cheng case, but you. I have pondered repeatedly; they have bribed officials with lightning speed, making it impossible for you to notice. Listen carefully, if I do not uncover the mastermind before dusk, we will immediately withdraw from Lezhi County

Fortunately, these are all matters that I can handle, and there is no need to trouble Brother Yilang.

The more I interact with Huaining, the better our relationship becomes, doesn't it? Huaining

Stranger

She hurriedly stepped forward and asked, "Brother Wei, is there an urgent matter that requires my attention?"

She came to buy tofu, so why did she go to buy rice instead? Oh no, has she ruined the business of the shop?

Alright... suddenly she asked, her gaze passing over Feng Yilang's shoulder, landing on the steps of the platform.

Her face showed no trace of anger, only a smile as she said

The reason why the East has not yet been sought is solely one, and the key lies in Yingkang City

The county magistrate, the county deputy, the chief clerk, and the trusted constables gradually descended the steps, clearly intending to conduct a private trial of the winter case

Is there a tricky case in the county government this winter

Feng Yilang responded ambiguously, "Well... perhaps he had something urgent to attend to."

Upon hearing this, her expression softened slightly as she nodded and said, "I will remember."

Feng Yilang's expression darkened, and it was rare for him to reprimand her, saying:

"Just this bowl, only this bowl, no more than that." Holding his nose, he took a sip, rolling it around in his mouth before finally managing to swallow it down.

It is only natural for brothers to support their younger sisters. Feng Yilang sat down with a smile, watching the two of them compete for food, and couldn't help but say, "When you were young, every time you had a meal, you would fight over the dishes. I always found it strange back then, as the Ruan family never lacked for food. What exactly were you fighting over?" Reflecting on childhood memories, his expression was filled with nostalgia

He beckoned to the young woman in green, whispered a few words, and then let out a cold laugh

She finally looked up, her slightly weary face breaking into a smile, and said

As I passed by the alley entrance, I saw this young gentleman eating with great delight. What kind of tofu is this young gentleman enjoying? Could you please provide an introduction?

Feng Yilang smiled and lightly tapped the iron lock. "You possess immense strength; why rely on the jailer's key? The prison will be shrouded in smoke due to a fire in the stable. At that time, if there is any commotion outside the door, you can change into official attire and take the opportunity to leave through the unguarded back door."

Such a response was straightforward and unhesitant, causing Feng Yilang to furrow his brow. At times, he wanted to ask Dong Gu, just how much affection did she hold for Dong Fang Fei in her heart?

Ruan Dong thought for a moment and shook his head

Adults only

I don't know. '' I continue to eat diligently

If only such a life could continue, how wonderful it would be

It is his fault for being immersed in joyful and happy days for too long, neglecting the enemies hidden in the shadows

Brother Yichiro, I am fine, you and Huaining need not worry

In recent days, Dongfang has not been idle; he either visits the tea garden to savor tea or dines at the restaurant, living a leisurely and joyful life throughout the day

On this day, around noon, the woman in blue hurried upstairs and whispered a few words in the ear of the person in the east.

He further stated: "The Gao family is the defendant, and they are merely a small wealthy family in the county, lacking the ability to bribe all officials."

Feng Yilang smiled in response and walked into the cold, dark dungeon. The walls of the county office's dungeon were lined with legal instruments of torture, and both sides of the cells were filled with criminals. He quietly noted the layout of the dungeon.

Feng Yilang took the umbrella and said softly

The master did not intervene; it was Huai Zhen who voluntarily confessed.

"Sir, what crime has my family member committed that they must labor under your private examination in the prison cell?" His voice was loud and clear, echoing out of the dungeon, and Huaining would surely hear it

Having spent many years together, how could she not know the thoughts of Yilang at this moment? Huaining must be outside! Ruan Dong urgently called out:

More than a month ago, I saw the official gazettes distributed by the capital at the county government. Dongfang Fei had resigned from his official position and chosen a place to reside. According to the circumstances, he should have arrived by now; why has he not yet made an appearance?

Unfortunately, Huai Zhen is unwilling to even engage in a desperate struggle, leaving him without any semblance of enjoyment

Ruan Dong smiled as she handed him the rice bucket, simultaneously pushing him into the bed to avoid the direct scorching of the sun

By the way, next month, Cheng Qi and a few of his subordinates will come to meet us and go up the mountain to pay respects at the graves. On the mountain stands the tomb of the fallen soldiers of Yanmen Pass. Cheng Qi and his companions, who were once subordinates of Dong Gu, now live in the neighboring county. Cheng Qi's subordinates are engaged in small businesses, while Cheng Qi himself, like Dong Gu, serves as a minor attendant in the neighboring county.

Well, she just lost a business deal, and she should make up for it. Reluctantly, she took the spoon and mumbled

When it becomes absolutely necessary, the last resort that should never be employed has ultimately been put to use

She was taken aback and said, "The master has just arrived at the flower house, he is not at the yamen."

Feng Yilang nodded without changing his expression, subtly hinting intentionally or unintentionally

He glanced at her and did not say much

Feng Yilang gazed intently and said softly, "Dong Gu, not everyone chooses betrayal."

Haining, do you also enjoy this kind of life

He is full of confidence

Feng Yilang entered the shop and took out the pickles. A young man with a handsome face and dark skin walked out from behind the cloth curtain, and she called out warmly: "Huaining, it's time to eat!"

It should be known. The young woman hesitated and added: "I heard that while he pleaded guilty, he requested the county magistrate to re-examine the case of Cheng."

Could I have offended someone

Brother Ichiro, are you worried about me getting hurt? Seeing someone unjustly die, standing up for him is what I should do. Granny Cheng and the widow do not count as betrayal; they indeed gave me silver, and I accepted it. That is the truth.

She made a ghostly face in a guilty manner, looking at him innocently

Immediately break into the prison and capture the county magistrate as a talisman

She took a moment longer to remember

New county magistrates usually bring a large number of trusted aides when they take office. Those who originally stayed in the semi-official circles of the county have only two options: either to leave or to be retained. To be retained, they must offer gifts to their superiors, and the amount of these gifts comes entirely from the people's resources.

"Winter is approaching, Huaining and I have decided to break into the prison, this is the last resort." Seeing her silent and lost in thought, he gently reminded her: "Do not forget, the three of us are siblings; no matter what we encounter, we should face it together."

She lowered her gaze a bit nervously and said softly

Ruan Dong thought for a moment and said softly

This ... ... jailer is somewhat in a difficult position

Ruan Dong raised her gaze when she stood up, and upon seeing him, she hurried to the iron gate.

Huaining kicked out a sheathed longsword from the mat, glared at her, and threatened:

Brother Ichiro, I have a matter that I do not understand

The master has just returned to the yamen and is demanding a public trial

She understood the intentions of Brother Yilang and was about to open her mouth to agree when she suddenly saw her colleagues from the public office rushing towards this direction

Feng Yilang nodded and said softly, "You can rest assured that Huaining will not harm anyone. After we withdraw from Lezhi County, we will first head to the neighboring county to find Cheng Qi, and then plan our next steps."

Did you not say that if the Cheng Da case goes to public trial, you would call out to me?

Ruan Dong carefully etched his expression into his memory and said softly with a smile

"Boss Feng, I'll take two bowls of tofu soup to go... What are you eating, little brother? You look so pale..." As soon as he caught sight of the bowl of tofu, the customer quickly said: "Boss Feng, the tofu today might be a bit... I suddenly lost my appetite, I'll come back to buy it tomorrow, alright, see you tomorrow."

Firstly, during the public trial, he publicly accused the officials within the county office of corruption, leaving no one unscathed. As long as one is willing to speak the truth and retaliate, evidence will naturally be presented, leading to the complete ruin of the futures of all members of the county government

In accordance with the master's instructions, everything was meticulously arranged without any omissions. The coroner, witnesses, and the plaintiff from the Cheng family all changed their testimonies, confirming that Cheng Da accidentally fell into the water and was not murdered; the local followers, the county clerk, scribes, and interns from the county office have also 'admitted' that they witnessed Huai Zhen accepting bribes and repeatedly advised against it.

Are you going to eat or not

Qingyi replied truthfully: "According to my private investigation, the county magistrate is very fond of Huaizhen, therefore ... ... "