Chapter 702 - 695_1
Although Ceng Lu was reluctant, he nonetheless knew that the situation was pressing. He understood the butler’s intention and realized that this was not the time for bravado or stubbornness. Lin Yue had brought many people with her, and the government office was already struggling to cope with the number of people they had. Furthermore, there had been an incident in the government office, a disturbance caused by some unknown figure from the martial world, which left even fewer available capable hands. The only course of action now was to release the captives first and plan their next move later. Moreover, with the commotion caused today, he had an excuse to call up local military forces.
"Since the turmoil within the government office was the result of traitors colluding with external thieves, Madam Lin’s actions today are somewhat understandable. I, the Magistrate, will let you go for now. If further investigation reveals any impropriety or falsity, I will have someone summon you back to the government office." Ceng Lu said and gestured with his hand, signaling the Government Officials to clear the way and let Lin Yue and her people leave.
Upon hearing Ceng Lu’s words, Lin Yue felt somewhat relieved that Ceng Lu at least had some sense. Although she knew this scoundrel definitely had not abandoned his thoughts and would not let things go so easily, as long as they didn’t cause trouble right at the government office’s entrance, that was all that mattered. After all, even though she now possessed wealth and Zhao Erhu was performing tasks for the Emperor, her status was still that of a commoner. The fact that she dared to confront the Government Officials at the government office was audacious, regardless of the reasoning, and was bound to provoke criticism.
"If that is the case, then I must thank the Magistrate for his discerning judgment." Lin Yue said with a smirk that did not reach her eyes. Without hesitation, she immediately escorted Dalang and his brothers out of the government office entrance, lest Ceng Lu have a change of heart.
Having left the government office, it was already getting late, and the city gates had been closed. Lin Yue and her party could not immediately return to Zhao Family Village, so they had to settle for the night in a residence within the city. After resting for one night, they hurried back to Zhao Family Village early the next morning. Liu, the shopkeeper, out of concern that Ceng Lu might make another move, had been keeping a watchful eye on the situation. The next day, he personally escorted Lin Yue back to Zhao Family Village before returning to the city.
No matter the reason behind Liu, the shopkeeper’s, actions, Lin Yue was grateful for the kindness shown, as well as for the assistance of the Jiang Family’s Hidden Guard, who had truly put forth much effort in protecting and escorting her this time.
Lin Yue initially wanted to host Liu and his party to express her thanks, but Liu had taken time out of his busy schedule to escort them. Jimin Hall still had many issues awaiting his attention, and aligning with Lin Yue had put him on the defense against any potential underhanded moves from Ceng Lu’s side, requiring his constant vigilance. Thus, he really could not afford to stay any longer and was in a hurry to get back to the city.
"Since everyone else is also busy, I won’t insist on keeping you here any longer, lest it delays your affairs. I, Lin Yue, am very grateful for all the help I’ve received these past few days and will remember your kindness. If there’s ever anything I can do for you, just let me know. I will not hesitate to help," Lin Yue said, and personally saw her guests off. She decided that when Zhao Erhu returned, she would bring gifts to express her gratitude in person. It was not for lack of sincerity but because Ceng Lu clearly had his sights set on her, and she dared not enter the city and present herself to him so easily.