Chapter 552: Collusion

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

As promised, Qin Zhenzhen arrived the next day, bearing a basket of fragrant food. She shared with Chen Liner, I prepared this myself.

This time, Chen Liner ate with remarkable grace, showcasing a refinement not typically a.s.sociated with a village woman. After finis.h.i.+ng the meal, she delicately set down her bowl and chopsticks.

Mrs. Su, thank you for the food. Its deliciousthe best Ive ever had, Chen Liner expressed sincerely.

Qin Zhenzhen responded, Youre welcome. It was no trouble at all.

Chen Liner, overcome with emotion, confided, Even though Im confined here, Ive heard about the happenings outside. I know the new governor, who is also the Primus, was demoted here due to some offense. Im aware of your remarkable medical skills and your current pregnancy, which must be challenging.

Its no small feat to cook for a commoner when youre not feeling well, Chen Liner continued.

Qin Zhenzhen rea.s.sured her with a smile, Im much better now. Cooking a few dishes wont tire me out.

Chen Liner wiped away tears, saying, Mrs. Su, youve put in a lot of effort. I understand your intention. Its not that I genuinely want to die, but flipping this case seems impossible.

Attempting to offer encouragement, Qin Zhenzhen remarked, If you dont try, how can you be certain its impossible?

Chen Liner, with a bitter smile, responded, I know Governor Su is new in office and is determined to combat evil forces. However, Id still advise him to think twice before acting.

Perplexed, Qin Zhenzhen inquired, Why would he need to think twice? As an official, he should work for the people and eliminate all evil forces. Chen Liner shook her head. You cant defeat those people.

Curious, Qin Zhenzhen pressed, Who are these people?

Chen Liner remained silent for a moment before divulging to Qin Zhenzhen,

Im referring to the malevolent figures in the mountains.

Theyre a band of desperadoes, employing ruthless and inhumane methods!

w.a.n.g Nian relied on their support, orchestrating the ma.s.sacre of my relatives and plotting against me. Even when I cried out, Heaven remained unresponsive. Thats why I lured him into their trap and ensured his demise!

Observing Chen Liners anger, Qin Zhenzhen decided to stoke the flames. Its regrettable that only w.a.n.g Nian met his end, but he isnt your sole adversary.

Your business has also fallen into the clutches of the w.a.n.g family.

Chen Liners fury intensified. Mrs. Su, youre correct. I have many enemiesthose mountain bandits and w.a.n.g Nians wife, Ms. Zhang!

She attributed the collaboration with the mountain bandits and the attack on her family to Ms. Zhang, fostering an intense desire for vengeance. The mere thought of her shop falling into enemy hands fueled a fervent wish to transform into a ghost and choke Ms. Zhang to death.

Seizing the moment, Qin Zhenzhen interjected, If the case is successfully overturned, not only will your life be spared, but justice will be served. Your shop can also be reclaimed.

Despite this offer, Chen Liner remained steadfast in opposing the cases reversal.

Mrs. Su, I know youre a kind person, and I dont want to see you harmed! To Governor Su, from the Court of Judicial Review to Shanglin, the corruption within the bureaucracy is evident. However, I want to caution you that beyond officials s.h.i.+elding each other, there are even more disturbing alliances between officials and bandits.

Therefore, you cant beat them! Chen Liner a.s.serted firmly.

Qin Zhenzhen, taken aback, questioned, Collaboration between officials and bandits? Are you suggesting they are in league with the previous governors, explaining their audacious behavior?

Chen Liner shook her head. Youve misunderstood. The governors are actually afraid of them. None dare confront or challenge them. The only way they survive is by feigning ignorance and compliance.

Really? Juan looked like a giant dog, with his ears perked up and his tail wagging. He was so excited that he didnt know how to express himself.