Chapter 102: County Magistrate’s Case 3
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
County Magistrate was poised to resume Honglian’s interrogation when a discreet note was discreetly passed to him. The delicate parchment held the handwriting of his beloved wife, containing merely six words: “Release her for 1,000 liang.”
For County Magistrate, those words carried an undeniable allure. Furthermore, he pondered that without rescinding Su Bin’s qualifications, allowing Honglian to depart was not an insurmountable issue.
Thus, County Magistrate excused himself and withdrew to the inner hall, seeking answers from his wife. “Who is safeguarding her?” he inquired.
His wife responded in hushed tones, “It is her guest, the proprietor of Yihong Courtyard. Su Bin has little to lose, and Honglian is simply mistaken. She bears no grudge against Su Bin and harbors no intention to falsely accuse him. Just grant her release!”
County Magistrate furrowed his brow. “But what if he is being framed?”
With unwavering conviction, Madame assured him, “That is highly improbable. There exists no substantial evidence. Consider it a case of mistaken identity combined with the urgency of her family’s financial situation. How about extending some benefits to Su Bin?”
“Let us conclude this matter promptly; the primary concern is not to delay Su Bin’s examination.”
“But what if the book truly belongs to Su Bin?”
County Magistrate nodded thoughtfully. “Very well.”
And so, County Magistrate, who had initially intended to administer punishment to Honglian, declared, “Honglian, while your intentions were not malicious, your actions have already sullied Su Bin’s reputation. As recompense, we shall impose 30 lashes upon your back.”
Upon hearing this, Honglian nearly collapsed. “Officer, I implore you! Thirty lashes will surely be the end of me…”
County Magistrate added, “Given your timely admission of guilt, you may offset the punishment by paying 50 liang. This sum shall be awarded to Su Bin as compensation for the damage to his reputation.”
Honglian prostrated herself. “Thank you, County Magistrate!”
She was a delicate and cherished young woman, and subjecting her to 30 lashes would undoubtedly result in her demise. The recovery would require at least six months, and yet she willingly offered 50 liang as compensation. With a note of 50 liang in hand, she swiftly exited the county office.
The strategist personally handed the money to Su Bin.
The County Magistrate showed no concern for Su Bin’s well-being, issuing the order to dismiss the court.
Su Bin had already pondered the repercussions of pursuing the investigation
further.
He couldn’t fathom who was hindering his path to becoming a Cultivated Talent.
However, he was acutely aware that this individual had meticulously orchestrated his downfall for two consecutive years.
Even if Honglian revealed the instigator’s identity, Su Bin knew it wouldn’t be the true culprit.
Perhaps it would be best to quell the entire matter and address it after the examination.
He was fortunate to have escaped disqualification.
Nonetheless, Su Bin admonished himself to exercise utmost caution.
By the time they exited the county office, lunchtime had long passed.
Two students and one teacher from the college had come to the governmental office to testify on behalf of Su Bin, and he felt obligated to treat them to a meal.
With the 50 liang in compensation, he was generous with his spending.
They chose a nearby restaurant.
Su Qing even suggested inviting Yang Gan to join them for dinner.
As a student of drama, Su Qing possessed finesse in dealing with people.
She smiled at Yang Gan. “Uncle, we are aware that my Third Brother owes his safety to your assistance. He asked us to reserve a seat for you over there.”
“I am busy!”
Yang Gan inwardly sneered—why should he go when the host was absent?
Before Su Qing could persist, Yang Gan retorted coldly, “Don’t you know that those affiliated with the governmental office should distance themselves from the case?”
The two brothers had an epiphany.
“That is truly unexpected..”