Chapter 554: A Series of Vicious Scheme
Ms. Zhang, Wang Nian’s wife, and her brother held positions of influence within the mountain bandit’s enclave. While not the leaders, they functioned as the right-hand individuals to the bandit leaders.
Ms. Zhang, known for her indolence, and Wang Nian, lacking substantial wealth, relied on aiding the bandits to secure income. However, the compensation received from the bandits was meager and insufficient to cover Ms. Zhang and Wang Nian’s expenses.
Ms. Zhang’s covetous eyes fixated on Chen Lin’er’s shop. She envisioned the prosperity that would come with possessing both establishments. Even if she refrained from conducting business, the monthly rent alone would generate substantial income. This seemed like a perpetual source of sustenance, a financial legacy for future generations.
Thus, Ms. Zhang and Wang Nian conspired to acquire Chen Lin’er’s shop.
Wang Nian and Chen Lin’er’s husband had shared a close friendship since childhood. However, as Wang Nian married and colluded with the mountain bandits, Chen Lin’er’s husband distanced himself, warning Wang Nian against assisting the bandits, foreseeing the retribution he might face.
Despite these warnings, Wang Nian, enticed by the allure of wealth, strayed further down a morally crooked path.
When Ms. Zhang pressured Wang Nian to devise a plan, he hesitated. The idea of harming Chen Lin’er’s family seemed inhumane, especially considering their past camaraderie. Yet, Wang Nian’s insatiable greed ultimately triumphed over any remaining sense of brotherhood.