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 Lin’er, “I prepared this myself.”

This time, Chen Lin’er ate with remarkable grace, showcasing a refinement not typically associated with a village woman. After finishing the meal, she delicately set down her bowl and chopsticks.

“Mrs. Su, thank you for the food. It’s delicious—the best I’ve ever had,” Chen Lin’er expressed sincerely.

Qin Zhenzhen responded, “You’re welcome. It was no trouble at all.”

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

“It’s no small feat to cook for a commoner when you’re not feeling well,” Chen Lin’er continued.

Qin Zhenzhen reassured her with a smile, “I’m much better now. Cooking a few dishes won’t tire me out.”

Chen Lin’er wiped away tears, saying, “Mrs. Su, you’ve put in a lot of effort. I understand your intention. It’s not that I genuinely want to die, but flipping this case seems impossible.”

Attempting to offer encouragement, Qin Zhenzhen remarked, “If you don’t try, how can you be certain it’s impossible?”

Chen Lin’er, with a bitter smile, responded, “I know Governor Su is new in office and is determined to combat evil forces. However, I’d 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 Lin’er shook her head. “You can’t defeat those people.”

Curious, Qin Zhenzhen pressed, “Who are these people?”

Chen Lin’er remained silent for a moment before divulging to Qin Zhenzhen,

“I’m referring to the malevolent figures in the mountains.”

“They’re a band of desperadoes, employing ruthless and inhumane methods!”

“Wang Nian relied on their support, orchestrating the massacre of my relatives and plotting against me. Even when I cried out, Heaven remained unresponsive. That’s why I lured him into their trap and ensured his demise!”

Observing Chen Lin’er’s anger, Qin Zhenzhen decided to stoke the flames. “It’s regrettable that only Wang Nian met his end, but he isn’t your sole adversary.”

“Your business has also fallen into the clutches of the Wang family.”

Chen Lin’er’s fury intensified. “Mrs. Su, you’re correct. I have many enemies—those mountain bandits and Wang Nian’s 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 Lin’er remained steadfast in opposing the case’s reversal.

“Mrs. Su, I know you’re a kind person, and I don’t 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 shielding each other, there are even more disturbing alliances between officials and bandits.

“Therefore, you can’t beat them!” Chen Lin’er asserted 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 Lin’er shook her head. “You’ve 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 didn’t know how to express himself.

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