Translator: 549690339 |
Ma Dongshu, oblivious to the thoughts consuming Qiao Xiaomai, continued to peddle the mystique and potency of his Truth Elixir with an ethereal voice, as though running a religious sermon under the glaring sun.
All present, except for Qiao Xiaomai, showed expressions of awe and fear.
Being a revered emissary from the central authority, Ma Dongshu, commanded a certain fear among the villagers.
When he brought out something of legend and intentionally built up an air of mystique, the villagers hung onto his every word.
“Today, since everyone is asserting their own truth, we will use the Truth Elixir to test their honesty. If what Qiao Chang’an said is the truth, it means Qiao Changkang slandered him by getting him drunk and damaging his reputation. He should be punished.”
If what Qiao Changkang said is true, that Qiao Chang’an caused Qiao Xiaomai to break his leg, he should be duly punished.”
“How about it? Qiao Chang’an, Qiao Changkang, dare you consume it?”
“I dare!” Although Qiao Changkang looked respectful, his response was remarkably swift.
He wasn’t responsible for Qiao Changshun breaking his leg, nor for the burning of his wheat. Even if he had wronged Changshun in the past, it was all water under the bridge now, known to both Changshun and Xiaomai.
” What a brave spirit! Judging by your courage, you are likely telling the truth!” Ma Dongshu complimented loudly, then uncapped a small bottle and took out a green pill.
Ma Dongshu handed the pill to Qiao Changkang.
Qiao Changkang accepted it, and without a second glance, popped it into his mouth and swallowed.
Immediately, an expression of pain crossed his face. There was some panic too, as he looked around, shaking his head.
“Do not panic! This is normal! You are merely experiencing vision distortions! Do not be afraid!” Ma Dongshu consoled.
Qiao Changkang’s terrified expression froze. He uttered a monotonous “OK”.
“Qiao Changkang! Tell me, did you see, with your own eyes, Qiao Chang’an loosening the roof tile?!” Ma Dongshu’s sudden loud voice carried a burst of power, thunderous like a bomb.
The tone of his voice shifted from ethereal to solemn and authoritative, as though he was passing judgement.
Qiao Changkang was momentarily stunned by the abrupt questioning. After a while, he responded, “I saw it.”
His reply came quickly, but his tone remained monotonous, as if his tongue was numbed.
“Then why didn’t you warn Qiao Changshun at the time?!” Ma Dongshu demanded.
“It wasn’t my problem, so I kept quiet.”
“Then why are you bringing up the old issue now?” Ma Dongshu continued to probe.
“For the silver, I suspect Changshun’s wheat was burned by Qiao Chang’an.”
No sooner had he spoken than the onlookers started whispering among themselves, while the faces of Wu Yinfeng darkened and both Qiao Chang’an and Zhao Shufen turned pale.
Looking at the situation, it was clear that every secret was being unearthed!
“Alright, enough questioning.” Ma Dongshu pointed at Wu Yinfeng, “Take him aside. The effects of the pill will wear off after half an hour.”
In the various gazes of the crowd, Wu Yinfeng, together with Qiao Dahuo, led a confused and embarrassed Qiao Changkang aside.
All eyes then fell on Qiao Chang’an. Official source is noveⅼfire.net
Qiao Chang’an’s face was a picture of horror and fear. He trembled, his legs shook, and his eyes were filled with terror.
“Qiao Chang’an, it’s your turn now. If you take this Truth Elixir, it will prove your innocence!” Carrying an air of solemn authority, Ma Dongshu waved the small porcelain bottle in his hand.
Qiao Chang’an fell to his knees with a thud, his weakening legs unable to support him.
“Go on, take it. If you can withstand Ma’s interrogation after taking it, you will be proven innocent.” Qiao Xiaomai said, crossing his arms and wearing an indifferent expression.