Chapter 88: The Ordinary

After Jin Liang and his group left, Zhu Da, Zhang Xian Gu, and Hua Sister all burst out of their rooms and surrounded Zhu Ying in the central living quarters, bombarding her with questions: "What's happened now? Why did Brother Jin come with others to find you?" "Why do visitors these past few days seem so ominous?" "Is it still about that case?"

Zhu Ying secured the front door with a bar and, illuminated by the oil lamp in Zhang Xian Gu's hand, smiled at her family's concerned faces, "It's still about that case. Yesterday it was from one side, today the other, and we're not siding with either."

Zhu Da somewhat relieved, remarked, "You could have mentioned sooner that General Zhou had offended Brother Jin! Tsk!"

Zhang Xian Gu retorted, "And what could you have done if she had?"

Zhu Da said, "Then we shouldn't have accepted anything from the Zhou family, and we should clarify this with Brother Jin."

"Don't start claiming credit now! Is that your achievement?"

Seeing another argument brewing, Hua Sister interjected, "Even if you explain it to Captain Jin, he might not mind, but his friends might think San Lang is asking for bribes. Better not to mention it."

Zhang Xian Gu added, "Right, these social dealings are just like in the village; you have to know how to curry favor properly. San Lang, that Zhou fellow is no good; can't we teach him a lesson?"

Zhu Ying explained, "His case has reached the highest levels; we can't mess with that. Let him suffer a bit in detention."

The family expressed their sympathy.

Zhang Xian Gu concluded, "As long as it doesn't involve our family, that's fine! Let's go to sleep! Oh my, San Lang, you haven't had dinner yet, have you? What's going on? The Emperor doesn't starve his soldiers! Go back to your room; I'll get your meal from the steamer right away."

Hua Sister went to help, and soon after, Zhu Ying changed out of her official robe into a simple cloth gown. Dinner was served, and the three watched her eat. Zhu Ying listened as they chatted, learning that Hua Sister had started prescribing medicine today, now acting as a herbal doctor. Hua Sister modestly said, "It's all common seasonal illnesses around the change of spring and summer. Knowing a few prescriptions and adjusting slightly based on the pulse isn't much of a skill."

Zhang Xian Gu praised this as remarkable, "You understand the symptoms, unlike me who just guesses while burning talisman ash, maybe adding a couple of medicinal herbs into the mix." Hua Sister was surprised to learn that Zhang Xian Gu's talisman water contained medicine, finding it astonishing. Zhang Xian Gu explained, "Just following what the elders say, like honeysuckle for clearing heat and detoxifying. If I think it's heat-related, I'll add a bit. Relying solely on talisman water isn't enough."

With visitors of significant stature arriving two days in a row, they began discussing the case again. Zhang Xian Gu commented, "Neither visitor was good; going to that place and quarreling, what good can come of it?" Zhu Da opined, "Not necessarily. Look at General Ma, having so many brothers worrying about him after his death, he must have been a loyal and honorable man in life." Hua Sister observed, "General Zhou seems like a wastrel, unlikely to personally commit murder."

Zhu Da then asked Zhu Ying, "San Lang, what exactly is going on?"

Zhu Ying replied, "It's only been two days; how could everything be clear? I need to continue the investigation tomorrow."

Zhang Xian Gu scolded Zhu Da for disturbing Zhu Ying's meal, leading to another argument between them. Hua Sister, now accustomed to the Zhu family's dynamic, felt sorry for Zhu Ying, who continued to eat undisturbed by her parents' heated argument.

Their casual talk continued, and Zhu Ying quickly finished her meal. Zhang Xian Gu cleaned up and asked Zhu Da to help boil water, mentioning, "We're running low on firewood; I'll have someone deliver a cartload from the market tomorrow..."

Hua Sister stayed to ask Zhu Ying, "With the case being complicated on both sides, why do they seem to have a problem with you?"

Zhu Ying explained, "You should've seen them confronting Master Zheng or Master Wang; they even brought up the Emperor. Impressive, right?"

Hua Sister nodded, "So, our home is just a minor scene. I understand, we'll continue as usual. But I worry they might vent their frustration on us if they can't get through to those two."

Zhu Ying assured, "I've already thought of a plan."

"Is there something the family needs to do?"

Zhu Ying decided, "Accept no gifts from either side. If trouble comes our way, I'll turn to Master Zheng for a solution."

Hua Sister hesitated before saying, "I have something to tell you, just let it pass through one ear and out the other—Master Zheng has been very kind to you, but sometimes..."

"Don't give away all your cards to him, alright?"

Hua Sister smiled, "You already don't have much, at least keep some for yourself. Get some sleep early; you need to rise early tomorrow."

…………——

The next day, Zhu Ying still went to Dali Temple first thing in the morning.

Passing by the palace gate, even the Imperial Guards couldn't help but inquire about the case. Zhu Ying replied, "It's only the second day; no significant leads yet. If there were big news, it couldn't be hidden, and you'd all know about it."

The guards remarked, "General Zhou doesn't seem the type to commit such a brutal act."

Zhu Ying curiously asked, "What kind of brutal act?"

The guards whispered, "Well, someone saw it happen! There are rumors. And that Major Ma, from what we've heard, isn't much good either!"

Zhu Ying heard some negative things about Captain Ma from the guards, similar to the talk in the Flower Street; the man had some bad habits. While indeed a good father and not a bad husband, since his wife's death he hadn't remarried. However, maintaining a comfortable lifestyle for his family, some underhanded earning was inevitable. He might not exploit his soldiers, but other misconduct was not off the table.

Zhu Ying had her own calculations, just listening. At this point, the outcome of the case wasn't something she could control; the truth about the real culprit was about to surface. She pondered how to subtly influence the situation.

After parting with the guards, upon arriving at Dali Temple, the Left Director of Investigation pulled her aside to ask, "How's the case going?"

Zhu Ying responded, "Weren't you on duty last night? Why haven't you gone home yet?"

The Left Director, full of frustration, pressed, "Just tell me about the case! That damn General Zhou! His antics last night kept everyone awake!"

During his time in the Dali Temple prison, Zhou You tried various antics for two days, including complaining about the food and bedding. Besides making a fuss and feigning illness convincingly, he was dealt with by skilled imperial physicians. An old doctor, experienced in handling Zhou You's antics, diagnosed him with common congestion, claiming it was an old issue of Zhou You's. A simple prescription was enough to cure him without even taking the medicine.

The Left Minister of Justice, on night duty, endured the hassle and was scolded by messages from the palace questioning Dali Temple's treatment of prisoners: "The Emperor is asking how Dali Temple is handling this! How can you mistreat people?"

The Left Minister wished he could demonstrate all eighteen forms of torture he knew to Zhou You, just to show the Emperor what real mistreatment looked like. However, he dared not act on this impulse and instead, swallowed his anger, waiting to report to Zheng Xi at the palace gate and later at Dali Temple to inquire and request Zhu Ying, "Could the murderer really not be him?!!"

Zhu Ying remarked, "I wish it were him; it would make things simpler for everyone."

Left Director frowned, pondering, "Can we delay this for a couple more days?"

"Old Left?"

"Hear me out. If it's an investigation, fine, he's innocent. But couldn't he have been framed by someone among the many he's wronged? Ah, no, no, no, he's too naive, easily framed! Let's see who bears a grudge against him and investigate any illegal activities they've engaged in. Such a dandy, heh heh!"

Left Director shared his experience, noting that maintaining their extravagant lifestyle required vast wealth. "You partake in the feast, but wish to hide when it's time for retribution? If you've enjoyed the wealth accrued through illicit deeds in your household, you share in the guilt. It's unheard of for the offspring of criminals to enjoy such privileges without facing consequences in these treason cases!"

Left Director confided in Zhu Ying, who found herself in agreement. She proposed, "Old Left, how many from the Dali Temple can join us in investigating this case? We should focus on digging into Captain Ma's past. If you have dirt on Zhou You, I'll report it. Even if we can't announce it publicly, at least let His Majesty know, what do you think?"

Left Director, with sleeves rolled up, worriedly said, "That won't be enough to anger His Majesty. He wouldn't be upset over some minor profiteering. Zhou You's father died tragically!" He recalled how Zhou You's father sacrificed his life for the Emperor and his friends, holding out until Marquis Zheng came to the rescue, with his body riddled with arrows.

Zhu Ying responded, "We'll keep searching, we have to find something. Be careful, Old Left. If it comes to it, ask Yang Liu for information. Quietly, though. With someone like Zhou You, if the news leaks, you'll be the first to suffer."

Left Director concluded, "Better not then. Too ominous! Keep an eye out yourself; if he's released, he might seek revenge. I'm heading home."

As Zhu Ying watched him leave, Official Bao approached, having heard about Zhou You's troubles and also worried, "General Zhou seems oblivious to his situation. Even if we prove his innocence, it might not end well for him. Born into such privilege, what can we do?"

Zhu Ying said, "Let's just deal with the task at hand. We'll have to face Jingzhao Prefecture soon."

Her mention of "facing Jingzhao Prefecture" wasn't about visiting the prefecture but about Wang Yunhe and Fan Shaoji coming to the Dali Temple to interrogate Zhou You. The Dali Temple's interrogation drew the attention of the Ministry of Punishments, but Wang Yunhe dismissed them upon arrival, questioning, "With so many suspects, can the Ministry support them all, assuring each one of acquittal?"

Knowing Zhou You was likely not the culprit, he still adopted the same strategy as Zhu Ying and Left Director: "Being innocent of murder doesn't prevent me from thoroughly investigating you!"

Wang Yunhe's goal was to rectify the capital's moral climate. As long as it wasn't through illegal means, he wasn't too concerned about the specifics. Investigating suspects thoroughly was acceptable.

When Zhou You saw the officials from the Ministry of Punishments leave, he felt uneasy. He wanted to curse at Zheng Xi, but Zheng Xi didn't show up; instead, Wang Yunhe did. Zhou You accused Wang Yunhe of tarnishing his reputation, claiming wrongful accusation. Wang Yunhe presented Zhou You with a list, emphasizing his integrity and refusal of bribes. He noted the family's bribes and stated Zhou You would not be beaten since he still held official status, then asked for Zhou You's account of the night in question.

Zhou You felt cornered without his usual support and confronted with evidence of his family's bribes in Wang Yunhe's hands. He insisted on his innocence, claiming he couldn't confess to a crime he didn't commit, even under duress.

Wang Yunhe, experienced in interrogation, grilled Zhou You for a morning without offering him water, ignoring his basic needs and getting him to reveal trivial misdeeds from his past.

Eventually, Zhou You admitted to gifting a set of jewelry to Lingling, taken from his wife's makeup box, under pressure from not being allowed basic amenities.

Wang Yunhe decided it was enough and let Zhou You return to his cell, exiting the room with a sense of duty fulfilled.

Zheng Xi, Pei Qing, Zhu Ying, and Bao Ping, waiting nearby, admired Wang Yunhe's handling of the situation, recognizing his practical approach to justice.

Both Zheng and Pei expressed their respect for Wang Yunhe's methods.

However, Wang Yunhe modestly regretted the necessity of such measures.

Zheng Xi invited Wang Yunhe for a more detailed discussion, while Pei Qing hosted Fan Shaoji. Both conversations were fruitful, recognizing Zhou You's lack of martial skill as indicated by the condition of his rarely used sword.

Moreover, Wang Yunhe trusted Zhu Ying's judgment that Zhou You hadn't been to the crime scene unless he could fly.

Zheng Xi also agreed with Zhu Ying's assessment, acknowledging that releasing Zhou You too soon could lead to chaos.

Zheng and Wang, understanding each other's stances from their morning court interactions, agreed that despite Zhou You's reckless behavior, releasing him without catching the real culprit was inadvisable. They also noted that the conflict between the imperial and southern armies warranted a lesson for all involved.

Now reaching a new understanding, Zheng Xi stated, "The suspect is under my watch; the case is up to Jingzhao to handle. It seems I've been lazy."

Wang Yunhe remarked, "The Dali Temple is too modest. You're not just dealing with Zhou You but facing the Ministry of Punishments, the Ministry of Rites, and even His Majesty."

Zheng Xi added, "Dali Temple has only recently recovered from a turmoil, and many of us, including myself, are newcomers. Please, Jingzhao, forgive any oversights."

Wang Yunhe replied, "Not at all, how could there be any fault? Like a needle hidden in a bag, there will come a time when its sharpness is acknowledged by all."

…………——

The exchange between Wang Yunhe and Zheng Xi left both feeling satisfied. Wang Yunhe, along with Pei Qing and others, went to Jingzhao Prefecture, and by lunchtime, Wang Yunhe invited everyone from Dali Temple to dine at Jingzhao Prefecture.

Surprisingly, the meals at Jingzhao Prefecture were no worse than those at Dali Temple, which gave Zhu Ying a new appreciation for Wang Yunhe. Dali Temple's wealth stemmed from Zheng Xi's ability to generate funds. Wang Yunhe, known for his integrity and not exploiting his position, showed that good management and fair distribution of commissions contributed to a healthier atmosphere at Jingzhao Prefecture.

Wang Yunhe invited the three officials from Dali Temple to join him for lunch, treating Zhu Ying with the same warmth as always and praising her, "I encouraged you to study, fearing you might lose your skills, but you've kept them sharp, which is excellent."

Zhu Ying responded, "Following Jingzhao's instructions, I dare not disobey. With your support, I'll continue to strive harder."

Wang Yunhe nodded, offered her more dishes, and exchanged a few casual words with Pei Qing.

After lunch, they reconvened to discuss the case details.

Wang Yunhe's demeanor during the meal made Jingzhao Prefecture's stance clear: no more leniency. Zhu Ying's performance over the past few days also demonstrated her competence, proving that skilled individuals are often met with tolerance and acceptance wherever they go. By the afternoon, everyone's attitude towards Zhu Ying had significantly improved.

Wang Yunhe and Fan Shaoji couldn't outright deny Zhou You's involvement, but their focus has clearly shifted towards "capturing the real culprit."

He Jing reported, "Last night, we interrogated the courtesans from Wu Niang's establishment and locked up several clients this morning. Based on the marks on their feet, the female corpse is confirmed to be Yanyan, not Yingying!"

This development made He Jing appreciate Zhu Ying's capabilities despite her youth. After Wang Yunhe's interrogation of Zhou You today, which suggested Zhou You wasn't the real culprit, He Jing's opinion of Zhu Ying improved, aligning with her earlier assertion.

However, someone else began to express doubts.

"A switch? Impossible!" Coroner Yang was incredulous, "Can't I distinguish between antemortem and postmortem injuries?!"

According to Wu Niang, Yanyan died before the case unfolded and had been officially deregistered by Jingzhao Prefecture. The morning's check confirmed this deregistration. As official courtesans are considered "government property," there's strict management involved. Zhu Ying had discovered this during her investigation of the Pearl case. Although record tampering isn't unheard of, official records, crucial for government revenue, must exist.

However, everyone present, even the least experienced Zhu Ying and Official Bao, who had been through Dali Temple's case reviews and various other cases, considered a possibility. Official Bao suggested, "Could she have been alive at the time of the switch?"

Coroner Yang was still upset about his judgment being questioned when Supervisor Zhang beside him suggested, "Meaning, Yanyan was reported dead but was actually alive."

Coroner Tian, standing nearby, added, "I've also examined it, and the injuries were indeed inflicted before death."

Fan Shaoji inquired, "But the body's identifying marks are clear, aren't they?"

Both coroners concurred, "We've encountered forgeries before and are somewhat familiar with those tricks. After re-examining yesterday due to a possible identity mistake, we confirmed the marks were genuine."

"Note this down; we'll ask for clarification during the next interrogation!" Wang Yunhe instructed.

He Jing and others were infuriated, "These despicable people, not a single truth comes out of their mouths!"

Wang Yunhe responded, "With your years of experience in handling cases, don’t you know? When has anyone ever confessed everything at once? Stay calm."

He Jing's face flushed with embarrassment, and he sat back down, mentally taking note of the advice.

Wang Yunhe continued, "Zhou's suspicion cannot be completely eliminated. If not directly involved, he might have instigated others. However, we can't just conclude it was him; it's possible that Ma had other enemies. We need to investigate both parties to see if they could have made other enemies."

The staff at Jingzhao Prefecture breathed a sigh of relief, understanding this approach. Even if it meant finding unrelated illegal activities by Zhou in the process of investigating the murder, that would be an incidental finding. They were not worried about Dali Temple's reaction, as Zhang and Yang, increasingly frustrated, had recently confronted the jailer who introduced them to Zhu Ying.

The jailer, knowing the backstory but not inclined to protect Zhu Ying’s interests, disclosed Zhou and Shi Gongzi's past schemes against her. Yang felt somewhat appeased, remarking, "Just for this, you could have just told us, why go through the trouble of seeking revenge by involving Dali Temple?"

Their attitude towards Zhu Ying improved slightly today.

After delegating tasks, the courthouse planned another session to interrogate Wu Niang's associates while Jingzhao Prefecture would investigate Zhou and Dali Temple would look into Ma, including probing any rivalries Wu Niang's house had in Flower Street and finding Yingying's whereabouts.

There were no shortcuts in the investigation; it was a matter of casting a wide net, similar to Zhu Ying’s previous case involving theft at the Wang residence, relying on diligent effort. Zhu Ying's skill in tracing evidence was of no use in the first three tasks and only offered a chance at luck in finding Yingying by searching the streets.

Officers and clerks, each assigned their task, spread out to cast the net, while the officials prepared for further examinations.

With many duties to attend to, Wang Yunhe had to leave. Fan Shaoji and Pei Qing, opting not to involve themselves directly any further, discussed the case over tea, leaving He Jing, Zhu Ying, and Official Bao in charge of the proceedings.

Official Bao prepared to interrogate "Xiao Fan," a nickname for Wu Niang's son, who, despite being her child, does not share her husband's surname, Zhao, because they are not biologically related; Xiao Fan's surname is Qian.

Next on the list were the courtesans, servants, and enforcers. Among Wu Niang's male servants, aside from the young ones, there were several enforcers.

Official Bao found limited useful information from Xiao Fan, who stated, "I serve wherever needed, doing all sorts of odd jobs. We're here to serve; there's no such thing as 'young master' in our house. Even my parents serve tea and water to guests. There's no part of the house I haven't been to."

He Jing made some progress with Wu Niang, who admitted that she didn't witness Yanyan's death herself. Deeming it uneconomical to seek further medical help when Yanyan's survival seemed unlikely, she had Yanyan removed for disposal. When asked how Yanyan was disposed of, Wu Niang explained that Xiao Fan, with help, wrapped the body in a mat and discreetly removed it at night for someone to collect.

"Who collected the body? Why would they agree to take a corpse?"

"Some people pay for female corpses for marital rites, and the young ones fetch a higher price," Wu Niang said.

"Who purchased Yanyan's body?"

Wu Niang claimed ignorance, explaining she profits from both ends: the sale of the body, facilitated by Xiao Fan who then brought the money back to her, and reporting Yanyan's death, for which she paid for the cremation and burial.

Despite his experience, He Jing couldn't help but express shock at the callousness, "Is there really no compassion?"

Wu Niang responded, "I would like to show compassion, but when I myself am treated as an object, how can I afford compassion to others?"

Zhu Ying also began with beating Wu Niang's husband twenty times. The man, no longer young and clearly not benevolent, had a past as an enforcer. Despite his age, he still held some respect on the streets. He and Wu Niang made quite the pair.

Knowing his place, after the beating, he said, "Whatever the official wishes to ask, I understand. But I truly don't know. The courtesans' affairs are typical. Some wish to marry decently, some aim to be madams themselves, some hope for amnesty, and others wish for death. I just want to live out my life without causing trouble. Now that we're entangled in legal issues, and things have gone south, there's no point in hiding for anyone. If it wasn't an outsider, the only person in this house would be Xiao Fan."

Zhu Ying asked why he suspected Xiao Fan. The man smirked, "Ah! That boy's gaze gives him away. He had his eyes on Yingying."

When asked for evidence, he had none. The nights were busiest, and Ma's peculiar tastes meant sounds of struggle or screams were "normal." Clearing the room, locking the door, and treating courtesans as he wished were also "normal." Whether Yanyan was alive or dead when removed was of no concern, also deemed "normal." If they couldn’t dispose of the body immediately, even burying it alive was considered "normal."

The courtesans' statements varied, some noting Xiao Fan's apparent interest in Yingying, while others were unsure. Their idle banter about male servants wasn't meant to be taken seriously.

The coroners re-examined the corpse, which was indeed "fresh." Given Yanyan's documented existence, they quietly confirmed the corpse had been seriously ill before death, possibly identifying it as Yanyan.

With these inquiries concluded, darkness fell, marking the end of another day.

Pei Qing suggested, "Why not interrogate Xiao Fan overnight again?"

He Jing, seeking an excuse for Dali Temple officials to return home for Jingzhao Prefecture to conduct a night interrogation, proposed, "He seemed involved with Yingying. Maybe wait until we find her, then press on."

Zhu Ying countered, "What if he knows Yingying’s whereabouts? Better to interrogate him now. If we get nothing today, we'll try again tomorrow."

After a brief argument, Wang Yunhe, having finished his duties, intervened, "We could have completed the interrogation in the time spent arguing."

Thus, they decisively moved to interrogate Xiao Fan.

Xiao Fan, reasonably well-spoken but fluctuating between talkative and silent, endured twenty lashes but insisted, "I sold Yanyan, gave the money to mother. I didn't care who bought her, only who offered the most. What they did with her isn’t my concern. It saved our family the cost of a coffin, and Yanyan found a place, all’s well."

Zhu Ying asked, "Why do Yanyan and Yingying look so alike?"

Xiao Fan answered, "They were chosen to match; how could they not resemble each other?"

Official Bao was surprised, "Is that so?"

"When selling goods, if one is nearly out of stock, wouldn’t you prepare a similar replacement?"

Wu Niang's establishment, known for its variety including the "plump and slender" types, needed to consistently offer popular choices. Even before Yanyan fell seriously ill, her declining health meant she could no longer appeal to clients, prompting Wu Niang to seek replacements in advance. Not only for those nearing death but also for those nearing the end of their "bloom," Wu Niang would prepare successors of similar types in her high-end establishment.

This revelation was an eye-opener for Zhu Ying, who knew people could be treated as commodities, but seeing such exact replacements was a first for her.

The group exchanged looks, and Zhu Ying asked, "The person you escorted out of Yingying's courtyard, who was it?"

"I've done too many tasks; I can't remember," Xiao Fan replied.

Zhu Ying remained silent, sensing something off about Xiao Fan. She trusted her judgment, suspecting Yingying's disappearance and Yanyan's replacement were Xiao Fan's doing. Ma's unfortunate demise seemed justified in her eyes. She didn’t explicitly accuse anyone, aware that Jingzhao Prefecture was not to be underestimated.

Using the excuse of nightfall, Jingzhao Prefecture courteously sent the Dali Temple officials home. Zhu Ying mentioned to Pei Qing, "They'll be busy tonight again, probably interrogating Wu Niang!"

Pei Qing responded, "If I were them, I'd definitely ask Wu Niang if people close to death are considered as good as dead and ready to be disposed of."

Official Bao speculated, "Probably so. Goods, after all..."

"I asked Zhao," Zhu Ying said, "You guessed right."

The trio reflected on their conversation and then headed home.

…………——

Five days later, the efforts of the clerks and officers yielded little. Ma's illegal activities were surprisingly minimal, while Zhou You’s misdemeanors were abundant but regarded as minor grievances by the common folk, not severe enough to warrant high-level official concern. Wu Niang's rivals were only business competitors, none capable or daring enough to kill Ma.

As for Yingying's whereabouts, there was no progress. Being an official courtesan limited her freedom and social interactions, leaving few clues about her movements or acquaintances. Inquiries into her known patrons, who were married, caused domestic disputes.

Jingzhao Prefecture indeed proceeded with a nighttime interrogation. Wu Niang, already intimidated by previous beatings from He Jing, confessed upon seeing the cudgel, "There were those barely alive when removed. Some were deceived with promises of release. Yanyan might have revived afterward? Xiao Fan did give me the money! It's all in the records!"

The records did show financial transactions, leading Jingzhao Prefecture to interrogate Xiao Fan again, who remained adamant about having sold the body.

Wang Yunhe emphasized the importance of not harming the "suspects" or "witnesses" further, suggesting that finding Yingying was the priority, considering she might still be within the city limits.

He Jing speculated, "Given the incident occurred at night with the city gates closed, and considering her mobility issues after Ma's abuse, it's unlikely she could have left the city. Even if she did manage to leave, without guidance or a household registration, it would be difficult for her to get far."

Zhu Ying noted, "The tracks indicated she had leg injuries, which would have hindered her mobility. It's likely she hasn't fully recovered yet. I'll take another look myself."

Wang Yunhe advised, "Bring more people along. A wider net may help find her quicker."

"No need, too many people might alert and scare her off."

Dressed in casual attire, Zhu Ying leisurely headed to the alleys behind the Flower Street, starting her search from the back door of Jiu Niang's place, inquiring about the trade of corpses. Jiu Niang, looking miserable, said, "You already know everything, why ask me? Ah, but I’ve never engaged in such dealings; my business isn’t as thriving as Wu Niang's because I'm not as ruthless."

She cautiously asked, "What happens if Yingying is found?"

Zhu Ying responded, "If she's not the murderer..."

"It's unlikely, we don’t involve our patrons..."

"Hmm?"

"Oh dear, even if we wanted to, we wouldn’t dare! It’s not up to us," muttered Jiu Niang.

Zhu Ying then inquired, "Who do you call for medical treatment here?"

Sensing something, Jiu Niang hesitated before finally revealing, "Well..."

Without further words from Zhu Ying, just a look, Jiu Niang divulged a place known for treating various injuries and illnesses effectively, albeit at a high cost. "Not everyone can afford it. Those without money just hire anyone available. As for Wu Niang's... there's a pharmacy on the back street that also sells medicine, Wu Ji’s place."

Zhu Ying urged, "Say everything all at once."

"They also treat conditions some young ladies might need discreetly handled, like terminating pregnancies, for example."

Zhu Ying nodded, saying, "Don't mention I was here."

"Oh dear, I wouldn't dare. I've always been timid since I was young, never daring to break the law."

Zhu Ying commented, "So, you seem to be quite amiable?"

"Dare not say, dare not say. Having rolled in this place, from being someone else's daughter to having my own, who dares claim they're a good person?"

"Being average is enough."

"Yes."

"If any unusual disputes happen at your place, feel free to come to me."

"Ah!" Jiu Niang's response was sincerely earnest.

…………——

Following the address provided by Jiu Niang, Zhu Ying found Wu Ji's establishment, bustling with business. Three or four clerks were sorting, weighing, and mixing medicines, while a shopkeeper managed the accounts, and an elderly doctor was nodding his head, humming a tune.

Upon her approach, a clerk greeted her, saying, "This young official, you might be in the wrong place? Our shop specializes in gynecology and also provides some trauma medicines."

Zhu Ying gestured towards the street with her thumb, asking, "Do you frequently serve the Flower Street clientele?"

"Uh, yes."

"Regarding trauma medicine... did Ma play a role in that? The recently deceased Major Ma."

Wu Ji's staff, already questioned by officials these past days, were aware of the ongoing investigation.

Using the pretext of inquiring about Ma's reputation, Wu Ji's staff let their guard down a bit and shared some details about him. Zhu Ying further inquired about the types of trauma medicines they often needed—whether for burns, bruises, or lash wounds, blunt or sharp injuries. After a long chat with Wu Ji, she gleaned information about the corresponding symptoms of injuries, noting that Yanyan's body bore similar marks, indicating the corpse's imitation was very accurate.

She asked about others who had suffered at Ma's hands, to which Wu Ji replied, "There were quite a few, but many have left, like Yingying, for instance."

"He had harmed Yingying before?"

"Indeed."

"So, Ma also contributed to your business, didn't he?"

The shopkeeper chuckled, "Oh, on this street, who doesn't contribute to our business? Better not say, better not say."

"Wasn't he a major client?"

Wu Ji went silent, Zhu Ying didn't press further, circling back to Major Ma, asking about how often he "took care of business" and when was the last time, and any recent conflicts.

The shopkeeper revealed, "The last purchase was made by Xiao Fan from Wu Niang's house, who said 'the usual,' so I knew it was him."

After getting the information she sought, Zhu Ying also bought some trauma medicines, paid for them, and headed to another street. She had marked some spots in the capital city but hardly visited Flower Street since her childhood, especially after the Pearl incident, trying to avoid too much entanglement with the area. However, she remembered some private courtesans lived nearby, along a river frequented by flower boats. Besides such pharmacies, there were other professions born from the vicinity to Flower Street.

Like some aged, ousted, or nowhere else to go women, residing in small courtyards along the river. Some with savings lived there, doing laundry or mending for courtesans or other odd jobs. Also, skilled elderly prostitutes rented more spacious rooms to teach their craft, often earning more.

Walking down this street, she stopped a young gang leader, remarking on his leisure.

Recognizing her, he exclaimed, "Ah, Miss Zhu! Old Mu has been mentioning you!"

Zhu Ying had helped Old Mu, a former prison mate who returned to the capital after laying low for two years, to resettle in the city upon discovering she had become an official. Now less daring and lacking other skills, Old Mu continued as an enforcer but stood out due to the crackdown on major gang leaders.

She asked the young leader, "Busy? I'll look for him later. I have a question for you—any new women moved here recently?"

He suggested visiting Wu Niang's, saying she matched Zhu Ying's stature, dismissing others as unworthy.

Zhu Ying, half amused, half frustrated, clarified she was on official business.

He mentioned, "Oh, there's someone," leading her to a small courtyard. "This place. A lame man bought two adjoining yards, living in one and renting out the other. He lives here, teaching the pipa." He knocked on the door, calling someone from inside.

A little girl, dark-skinned, opened the door, turned back, and said, "Madam, there are guests." Then she told the young gang leader that they paid their rent monthly.

Zhu Ying's heart stirred as she saw a woman in all white, with a slight limp, coming out to greet her: "Miss Zhu."

Pearl!

With mixed feelings, Zhu Ying hadn't expected to find Pearl here; it was both anticipated and regrettable. She asked, "Madam, how may I address you?"

Pearl paused before answering, "I now go by the surname Jiang."

"Madam Jiang."

The young leader interjected, "We've got questions for you. The newcomer staying here, who are they?"

Pearl shook her head, "I don't know. I only take the rent."

Zhu Ying, looking at the little girl, inquired, "Did Xiao Fan bring her here?" The girl hid behind Pearl.

The young leader said, "Let's not bother asking! I'll take you to see!"

Leading the way to the next dwelling, Zhu Ying followed, and Pearl hesitated before calling out, "Miss Zhu."

Zhu Ying responded, "It seems so. I didn't expect to find you so soon. This doesn't implicate you."

"It's not something she could decide," Pearl murmured.

Zhu Ying expressed, "I don't want her involved in this matter. Is it Yingying?"

Pearl remained silent.

Zhu Ying urged, "Xiao Jiang, I need to know the truth to figure out what to do next."

Surprised by being called "Xiao Jiang," Pearl still shook her head, "I'm just here to make a living. If Miss Zhu wants to interrogate me, this is all I know. People pay me, and I provide them with a place to stay."

Zhu Ying conceded, "Alright, I won't ask further. Your situation here..." noticing Pearl, now Xiao Jiang, had bought properties, "It seems Jiuniang hasn't touched your savings."

Xiao Jiang smiled slightly, "You had a word with her; she wouldn't dare."

Zhu Ying decided to leave, closing the door behind her, and instructed the young leader, "Make sure no one bothers her."

The eager young leader teased, "You have a taste for this."

Zhu Ying retorted sharply, "Nonsense! She's a respectable woman. Stop your teasing."

"Understood."

They reached the rented courtyard to find it cramped and disordered, with every room divided into smaller spaces, each opening onto a central courtyard, and a row of stoves in the southern outbuilding. Clothes of all sorts were drying in the yard, haphazardly scattered.

The young leader opened a door to reveal a room with two beds, one empty and the other occupied by a woman whose figure resembled the corpse from the mortuary. Zhu Ying, noting the ground and the woman's condition, sighed, "Yingying."

The woman on the bed groaned, barely opening her eyes, "Xiao Fan? Water..."

From behind her, Xiao Jiang's voice added, "Her injuries are severe; she had a fever yesterday."

Zhu Ying remarked, "You shouldn't have followed; it's not good for the tenants to see."

Xiao Jiang replied, "It's... alright. Cash in hand for room rent; I'm used to hearing harsh words," frowning slightly as she dusted off a speck of dirt from her white shoes. The little dark-skinned girl exclaimed, "Oh no, it's dirty. I'll go get new shoes!"

Zhu Ying checked Yingying's breathing and instructed the young leader, "Go hire a carriage and take her away."