Chapter 254 - 253
An old woman servant saw Jiang Yifan and quickly knelt to pay her respects, then hurried inside to report, "Elder, Lord Jiang from the county government office is here."
Following her into the gate, Jiang Yifan saw the Qi family’s servants and others gathered in the courtyard. Looking further, he saw Lian Gui and his guards and attendants preparing to depart and saying their farewells to Qi Younian and others.
Jiang Yifan’s gaze flickered; they appeared to be planning a return to the capital. Lian Gui had taken leave of him two days prior, mentioning that he would pack up and head back to the capital in a few days and that he would not take the trouble to come say farewell again. Jiang had thought Lian Gui would leave in a few more days, but he happened to come on the same day as Zhou Bingyi’s visit.
Zhou Bingyi also glanced at Jiang Yifan. The youngster had intimidated him the day before, saying that the person sent by the Duke’s Mansion would not return to the capital until the case was settled. So who were these people of clearly different status who were getting ready for a long journey?
When Qi Younian heard the old woman’s message, he came forward to greet Jiang Yifan, bowing and saying, "The humble one welcomes Lord Jiang. Your presence graces my humble dwelling."
Jiang Yifan quickly took two steps forward, grasped Qi Younian’s arm, and said, "Elder, you’re too courteous. I am a regular visitor here and am often treated with kindness. You need not stand on ceremony for me."
Having said that, he stepped aside to introduce Zhou Bingyi to Qi Younian, "This is Lord Zhou, the Prefect of Yuyuan Prefecture, who is passing by to inspect the autumn harvest."
Upon hearing "Prefectural Magistrate," who was none other than the brother-in-law of Liang Qiyuan still in jail, Qi Younian hurriedly bowed deeply, "Humble one, Qi Younian, pays respects to the Prefectural Magistrate."