Chapter 59: Justice

Kneeling there, tears streaming down her face, her hands eventually gave way, falling in front of her. Sobbing, she alternated slaps between her left palm, facing up, and the back of her right hand, all the while articulating her reasoning through tears and slaps, "Did I bring someone into our home with a substantial dowry just to kill her for amusement? If not for her, at least for the money I do care!"

"Lazy and disobedient, could I not discipline her?"

"Without teaching her to work, how could we support this large family? Who spends a hefty dowry to bring a daughter-in-law home not to respect the elders, manage household chores, and serve the husband but to worship her as an ancestor, adding another master to the house?"

Despite facing such a high-ranking official as Wang Yunhe for the first time and being amidst the grandeur of the Yamen, the Chen family matriarch spoke clearly and convincingly. Being from the capital herself, her accent was light, and even with a slight stammer, everyone around could understand her. Her arguments won silent nods from some onlookers.

These onlookers weren't ignorant of social norms and family squabbles; even if their own families hadn't experienced it, they knew of neighbors who "disciplined" their new daughters-in-law. Some thought: Being a daughter at her parents' home and a daughter-in-law at her husband's are entirely different matters. Treating a daughter-in-law too leniently was unthinkable.

However, seeing the Cao family, especially Gan Ze's aunt, crying so miserably, they hesitated to voice their thoughts too loudly.

In between sobs, Gan Ze's aunt cried out, "Does that justify killing someone?"

The heartbreak of a mother losing her daughter to her in-laws is profound. After all, doesn't everyone have family?

Some whispered among themselves, "It's all fate." or "Perhaps they were enemies in a past life?"

Zhang Xian Gu snorted disdainfully. The notion of past-life adversaries was a convenient excuse she had used during her days as a spiritual medium. It was a reliably effective ruse. Zhu Da murmured, "Even an upright official finds it hard to resolve domestic disputes..."

This sentiment was shared by the spectators. Domestic issues are often too complex for a clear-cut judgment. Being able to mediate to everyone's satisfaction was the mark of a good official.

Zhu Ying stood silently, contemplating. Integrity in "honesty" doesn't necessarily equate to competence. It's a mistake to assume that one virtue makes up for all others. "Honesty" and "competence" are not qualities that always coexist in a person.

Fortunately, Wang Yunhe was not only upright but also exceptionally capable. Zhu Ying held a steadfast trust in him.

Wang Yunhe did not disappoint her expectations. With a strike of the gavel, the court attendants began to quiet the crowd, and he proceeded to inquire Gan Ze's aunt about the interactions between the two families. Remembering her nephew's advice, she focused on two things: her profound love for her daughter, raised to be hardworking and humble, and the unjust circumstances of her daughter's death.

Wang Yunhe disregarded any further "reasons" from the Chen family matriarch; he was well-versed in both common sense and the laws of the kingdom. His focus was solely on the facts of the case, cross-referencing the information he had gathered with what Zhu Ying had told him, leading him to form his conclusions.

He ordered the coroner and midwife to step forward and announce the autopsy results, clarifying each detail. His primary concern was to ascertain the true cause of death of the Cao family's daughter.

Zhu Ying perked up when the coroner mentioned, "The marks on the neck were post-mortem." She thought about the crucial role of coroners in homicide cases, lamenting how universally underappreciated and avoided they were. "How valuable it would be to master their skills for future cases," she mused, recognizing the need for a strategy to learn their expertise thoroughly.

She also wondered: Not only do ordinary citizens shy away from the profession of coroner, but officials do as well, hardly anyone learns this craft. "How do they adjudicate cases involving death without understanding the cause? Are they entirely reliant on the coroner's reports? What if the coroner falsifies information?"

Meanwhile, Wang Yunhe presented the evidence piece by piece and conclusively ruled the case as "manslaughter," with additional minor charges of deceiving the authorities against the Chen family. Zhu Ying admired Wang Yunhe's clarity and focus, not swayed by "mother-in-law logic," thinking, "This is how great deeds are done."

Zhang Xian Gu, also satisfied with the proceedings, said to her husband and daughter, "No wonder our neighbors and Zhu Ying speak so highly of this official. He indeed makes swift decisions!" Her smile faded as she glanced at Gan Ze's mother, her expression turning vengeful, "With such a decisive official, unlike the local courts, a prompt judgment of 'murder for murder' ensures. I'll certainly be here to witness the execution come autumn."

Having been in the capital for some time, she knew executions weren't carried out immediately, adding, "Such scoundrels deserve to suffer in prison for tormenting good families. Right, Zhu Ying?"

Zhu Ying, however, frowned slightly, "Quiet, it's not over yet."

"Why not?"

In the midst of their conversation, the Chen family began to protest their innocence, admitting to having "acted in a moment of anger leading to an accidental death." The son of the Chen family argued that the deceased was not virtuous, always demanding her way by leveraging her relative's position in the Marquis' estate, criticizing his mother's actions as improper, calling her a country bumpkin. "In a moment of anger for her disrespect towards my parents, I struck her, not realizing my own strength, leading to her untimely death."

The crowd buzzed again, and Zhang Xian Gu angrily declared, "Nonsense! A person keen on status wouldn’t marry into such a poor family; they’d have sought wealthier connections long ago!"

Her voice was slightly loud, causing those nearby to glance at her, yet they found her point somewhat valid.

Zhu Ying sighed softly, noting that country folk under the Emperor's gaze indeed see more of the world. "The Chen family's youth sure knows how to fabricate excuses!" she thought.

She glanced at Wang Yunhe, who also seemed displeased. A husband killing his wife could lead to a reduced sentence, especially if the wife had cursed her in-laws, complicating the punishment. Wang Yunhe knew too well how hard it was to find evidence for such accusations, with the Chen family sticking together, and those sympathetic to the Cao girl unlikely to testify – they had to live in this village for generations to come.

Zhang Xian Gu, gripping her daughter's sleeve tightly, asked, "What does this mean, Zhu Ying?"

Gan Ze, edging closer, pulled a face and whispered to Zhu Ying, "Zhu Ying, what do you make of this?"

Zhu Ying looked up as Wang Yunhe calmly surveyed the courtroom, now buzzing with debate. Having made his decision, he still called for recess, signifying the gravity of a life-and-death case. Despite having all evidence and a confession, he preferred to consult with his deputies for a final verdict, emphasizing the importance of due process.

…………——

As the accused and witnesses were taken away, Gan Ze clung to Zhu Ying's other sleeve, saying to Zhang Xian Gu, "Uncle, Auntie, I need a word with Zhu Ying."

"No need for secrets among us," Zhang Xian Gu said. "What's there to discuss? A life for a life, a debt repaid. With such an upright and decisive official, what could be difficult?"

Gan Ze looked earnestly at Zhu Ying, who led him aside to quietly ask, "Did anyone actually strike in the fight? Does your uncle have injuries?"

Gan Ze said, "I'll ask around."

Zhu Ying instructed, "Don't ask, state that your uncle was beaten by his son-in-law."

"Huh?"

"If there's no injury, take him to a secluded place and hit him on the back with a stick now," Zhu Ying said calmly.

"Who lacks their family's medicine money?"

Zhu Ying firmly said, "If you don't want your sister's body buried in their ancestral grave, do as I say!"

Trusting her advice, Gan Ze hurried off and returned shortly, reporting, "It was chaotic at the time, and he was hit on the shoulder twice, not sure by whom, but the injury is still there. Do we still need to hit him?"

"That's enough," Zhu Ying decided.

Before Gan Ze could inquire further, Wang Yunhe re-emerged, sternly delivered his judgment with another strike of the gavel: the Chen family's youth, having killed his wife, was sentenced to penal servitude. However, since there was no evidence for the wife's cursing of her parents, the sentence was halved. With both families suffering injuries, no compensation was required, but the Chen family must properly bury Mrs. Cao.

Hearing that the Chen family's youth wouldn't face a death sentence brought dissatisfaction among the listeners, including Gan Ze, but no one dared to argue. Remembering Zhu Ying's advice about "being beaten," Gan Ze pushed his uncle forward, exclaiming, "This brute has also been violent!"

Although Gan Ze, a servant of noble status, hadn't fully grasped the legal nuances and misunderstood Zhu Ying's intent, he thought accusing the brute of violence might lead to a harsher punishment.

Meanwhile, the Chen family also protested, "They hit us too!"

Zhu Ying's face revealed a slight smile.

Wang Yunhe said to those around him, "This case is easy to judge."

The deputy judges agreed, "Exactly. Even though Mrs. Cao has passed away, it meets the criteria for 'severing ties of righteousness'."

Consequently, the court ruled that the Chen family's young man, for beating his father-in-law, had breached the law of "a husband beating the wife's parents," leading to the severing of ties between the two families. Mrs. Cao's remains were to be returned to her parents for burial, and the Chen family was ordered to pay five coins for funeral expenses. Both families were also ordered to return the bridal gifts and dowry.

Gan Ze sighed in relief, whispering to his parents, "It's all thanks to Zhu Ying's advice."

However, Zhu Ying didn't show any signs of happiness; Zhang Xian Gu incessantly questioned her daughter, "Why was he spared? Why wasn't he executed? Just like that, our dear girl died in vain?"

Zhu Ying quietly responded, "No matter who judged this case, escaping punishment was difficult, but imposing a severe penalty was also challenging."

She was deeply disappointed, having held high hopes for Wang Yunhe. Yet, his judgment seemed to strictly follow the letter of the law, without any deviation.

Zhu Da advised Zhang Xian Gu, "Talk less!"

Zhang Xian Gu's voice became softer but she still managed to add, "How come he's not paying with his life? Didn't you say this judge was just? Is this verdict fair?"

Zhu Ying glanced at her, then turned away, silently observing the proceedings. The onlookers, hearing about "the son-in-law beating his father-in-law," unanimously agreed that the son-in-law was at fault, and that severing ties was justified.

Despite the Chen family matriarch's tears, the sentence was passed. The root cause of the feud between the two families was Mrs. Cao's death. With the murder case settled, the brawl case was easier to resolve. Wang Yunhe's judgment was swift and straightforward, based on the law. He showed compassion by sparing those over fifty from physical punishment, substituting them with younger relatives.

A bench was brought in, and the convicts were stripped for the beating. The young man from the Chen family, sentenced to penal servitude, received forty lashes, with an additional forty for "contempt of court." However, these eighty lashes were divided over two days, forty each day, to avoid causing death from the punishment in one session.

The courtyard was filled with cries as members from both the Cao and Chen families were beaten, protesting their innocence until the punishment was over. Those involved in the brawl were released, while the young Chen was taken back to prison, awaiting his next forty lashes. His parents were instructed to "pack his belongings and bring them here, after the punishment he will be taken away."

Neither family was entirely satisfied with the outcome, yet neither could claim complete dissatisfaction either. Wang Yunhe's judgment was clear and convincing, satisfying most onlookers and leaving no room for criticism. Others might accept this, but Zhu Ying felt deeply disheartened, even more so than the grumbling Zhang Xian Gu.

Zhang Xian Gu grumbled for a while before stating, "What kind of law is this? It makes no sense."

Fearing Zhang Xian Gu might say something more unpleasant, Zhu Ying quickly suggested, "Wait a few days, he will be punished again. If you're still not satisfied, you can come back to watch."

Zhang Xian Gu lamented, "Oh dear, Gan Da must be heartbroken."

Zhu Da, burdened with worries and seeing his wife stirring up more trouble, said irritably, "You're aiming too high! Why meddle in Gan Da's affairs? With such a predicament, they hardly have time to deal with you."

Zhang Xian Gu retorted, "You know nothing! It's only right for us to offer our condolences and burn some paper money for the girl as they take her body."

Zhu Da finally agreed, with a condition, "Fine! Just don't cause any trouble."

Zhang Xian Gu shot back, "You're the one causing trouble!"

Zhu Ying announced, "I'll go with you."

The family approached Gan Ze, who, with reddened eyes, thanked them for their thoughtfulness. Gan Ze and his family also expressed their gratitude to Zhu Ying for her efforts.

Zhu Ying suggested focusing on the immediate tasks.

Shortly after, Gan Ze's maternal family brought out a thin coffin, followed by an official who said, "The magistrate is kind-hearted, and we shouldn't be stingy. You can borrow this cart, but remember to return it."

Gan Ze assured him, "Don't worry," and offered some money. The official took a small amount, explaining, "The magistrate forbids us from taking bribes, but in cases of life and death or weddings and funerals, a small token is acceptable. It's getting late, and curfew is approaching, you should hurry."

Gan Ze told Zhu Ying, "For such a great kindness, thank you isn't enough..."

Zhu Ying waved her hand dismissively, "No need for formalities. Do you need someone to recite scriptures and burn paper money today?" During the conversation, Zhang Xian Gu volunteered herself.

Gan Ze replied, "Uncle and Auntie, times have changed. As parents of an official, you can no longer engage in such activities, or it could cause trouble for Zhu Ying. We'll go back today and have monks and Taoist priests perform the rites tomorrow. Your thoughtfulness is appreciated."

Zhang Xian Gu lamented, murmuring again about the principle of a life for a life.

Suddenly, Zhu Ying said, "Gan Da, make a trip back to the estate tonight and inform Zheng Da about what happened here. Just stick to what you've seen and heard, without adding anything extra."

Initially off duty, Gan Ze now took Zhu Ying's advice seriously, "Alright, I'll do as you say."

Zhu Ying added, "Meeting is fate. When will Auntie return? I'll come back tomorrow to offer incense."

Gan Ze said, "It depends on what my uncle decides."

Zhang Xian Gu told him, "You go ahead with your tasks. Your dad and I will manage. We'll head over early tomorrow." Gan Ze's parents also insisted, "Don't let this delay Zhu Ying's important matters." They sent Gan Ze back to the estate, deciding to handle the external affairs themselves.

Everyone returned to their respective homes.

Once home, Zhang Xian Gu remained indignant, losing her appetite for dinner, leaving only Zhu Ying and her daughter to eat and sleep.

Awakening calmly, Zhu Ying returned to her duties at the Dali Temple early, but Zheng Xi and others had already left for the imperial court.

Encountering Hu Da at the temple, he inquired, "How did it go?"

Zhu Ying reported, "The judgment has been passed," and recounted everything she witnessed. Hu Da was surprised, "So quickly by Wang Jingzhao?! Fairly judged, indeed." He pondered, "He's handled everything so meticulously, what am I to write in the review?"

Reflecting on Zhu Ying, he thought, "Such a pity, with a few more years of experience, he'd be good to consult on these matters. But he's still too green; this wasn't his case to handle."

Investigating cases, finding evidence, and making judgments based on the law, Zhu Ying now found herself competent, yet the task of review and conclusion writing was an entirely different matter.

Hu Da praised her, "You've done well, go back to your duties. Keep up the good work!" He meant every word, hoping to foster a good relationship. Observing Zhu Ying's composed demeanor, he admired, "Excellent! She has the makings of someone who can handle significant responsibilities."

Little did he know, Zhu Ying had realized a truth since yesterday: the fundamental principles of retribution for murder and repayment of debts are universal. Yet, once the law intervenes, even the most just application cannot demand a life for a life.

So, what good is this "justice"?

Why bother with this "justice" at all?

Now serving as an official in the Dali Temple, her life differed little from her days as a shaman back home, aside from improved living conditions. Even with Wang Yunhe's integrity, among the finest in the officialdom, his efforts couldn't prevent the protection of a murderer.

These officials are no more virtuous or endearing than a shaman.

Away from Hu Da's presence, Zhu Ying smiled silently.

If the officials lack justice, then I need not adhere strictly to it either.

Back at her desk, Wang Pingshi and others inquired, "What's the matter?"

Zhu Ying repeated her account, and they commented, "Wang Jingzhao is indeed conscientious." They noted how domestic disputes are often smoothed over, and in comparison, brawls are taken more seriously. As for Cao Shi's death, they dismissed it as "karmic retribution from a past life."

As they were discussing, Zheng Xi and others returned, and Yang Liu from the neighboring Taichang Temple, known for his well-informed gossip, joined them to chat. They learned that Wang Yunhe had submitted a report that morning about the previous day's case, emphasizing the need for evidence before justifying the killing of a daughter-in-law for cursing her in-laws. He suggested that complaints of insubordination should be officially reported before taking any lethal action to reduce penalties, as posthumous accusations of insubordination should not be accepted by the authorities without evidence.

While everyone praised Wang Yunhe's rigor, only Zhu Ying thought, "The crime of 'insubordination' is too easily claimed! Such a workaround is barely satisfactory. I must ensure that boy pays for his life!"

………………

Despite having made up her mind, Zhu Ying spent the day at the Dali Temple as usual, not her turn for duty, and left as soon as she finished her tasks. Wang Pingshi and others joked, "She's still just a child, probably off to something new and exciting."

What new and exciting thing could Zhu Ying possibly have?

As soon as she left the palace gate, Zhu Ying encountered Gan Ze, who approached her and said softly, "I met with Qi Lang yesterday. He said that as long as the Jingzhao Prefecture is just, this would be their judgment, and even if it were him, there would be no other way. I understand that in the countryside, many instances of husbands killing their wives are confusedly overlooked, but still..."

Zhu Ying nodded.

Gan Ze clenched his teeth and said, "My aunt and uncle have gone back. Before leaving, they asked me to thank you. Without your help and reminder, my cousin might not have been able to return..." he said, his eyes reddening again.

Zhu Ying mentioned, "In a few days, that man will have to endure another beating."

Gan Ze snorted coldly, "I must witness it myself, counting each hit! His family shouldn't think they can bribe the constables to escape this punishment!"

Zhu Ying asked, "Are you waiting for Zheng Da Ren to come out?"

"Yes."

After bidding farewell to Gan Ze, Zhu Ying returned home, where Zhu Da and Zhang Xian Gu were present. Zhang Xian Gu said, "Her parents have already taken their daughter home. We also offered incense and burned paper money for her, praying that she, if she has a spirit in heaven, would see your efforts and bless you with safety in the future. You don't need to go there anymore."

Zhu Ying replied, "Okay. I'll change my clothes; there's something else I need to take care of outside. I'll be back for dinner."

Zhang Xian Gu inquired, "What is it?"

"It's related to the yamen (government office)."

Zhang Xian Gu didn't ask for details, simply stating, "Go and come back quickly."

After changing her clothes and taking some money, Zhu Ying left to buy several boxes of pastries and headed to the Jingzhao Prefecture's prison. The head jailer and jailers were happy to see her, asking, "What brings you here at this unusual hour, just before curfew?"

Zhu Ying responded, "I need a favor from uncles and brothers."

They eagerly inquired what she needed, and Zhu Ying explained, "Actually, it's two things, both stemming from yesterday's case. Having witnessed the trial, I realized the importance of knowing how to examine corpses and injuries for future case judgments. I don't need to learn everything, just the basics to avoid mistakes. As you know, there have been issues starting from the Supreme Court and the Ministry of Punishments."

"Indeed."

"I was impressed by the skill of Jingzhao's coroner yesterday, but unfortunately, I have no acquaintance with him. Could you introduce me? I'll prepare the necessary gifts and tea, so it won't put you in a difficult position."

The younger jailer, lively and active, encouraged the head jailer, "I think it's fine. It's just talking; it's not like we're taking his job."

The head jailer, with dignity, said, "If the young official values us so, we must, albeit reluctantly, offer our help in finding him. What's the other matter?"

Zhu Ying then mentioned the matter of flogging, "I also heard that the severity of flogging varies. I was wondering who is in charge of that?"

The head jailer, seriously warned, "What are you planning to do? That's not acceptable. Let me advise you, don't dwell on this. Governor Wang's eyes are very sharp!"

Zhu Ying said with a smile, "I'm not looking to bribe anyone to hit harder or softer. I just want to understand the differences, so I can make informed decisions in the future."

The jail head shook his head, hesitated, then nodded, agreeing, "Alright then. You've got me there, young official. You're smart, and even if I refused you, you'd find another way to learn. Let's have a gentleman's agreement first—you can't implicate us."

Zhu Ying agreed, "It's a deal!" and then presented them with the tea and pastries.

They arranged to meet the next day after Zhu Ying came out from the palace, to inform her whether it was successful or not.

The next evening, after spending another day at the Supreme Court, Zhu Ying went to Jingzhao's prison, where the jail head had arranged for a jailer to cover his duties while he guided Zhu Ying. "Young official, you're in luck, both agreed. When would you be available for me to show you the way?"

Zhu Ying responded, "I'm sure you spoke highly of me, I will definitely reward you."

The jail head modestly refused, "Oh, I couldn't possibly take credit."

Zhu Ying asked, "If it's not too much trouble, can we meet tonight?"

The jail head agreed, "Alright."

Zhu Ying then bought some gifts and followed the jail head to the coroner's home, which was modest but owned and well-kept, with a clean, organized interior that smelled of medicine and incense.

The coroner had been persuaded by the jail head, who praised Zhu Ying: "This young official is very agreeable—as long as you don't offend him, he's exceedingly polite, savvy, skilled, and has strong backing." The coroner, therefore, welcomed Zhu Ying warmly, remarking, "Everyone else avoids us, yet here you are, seeking us out."

Zhu Ying laughed, "Why should I avoid skilled people? What's there to be squeamish about? They don't understand—it's the living who are more frightening than the dead. These gifts are a small token of my respect."

The jail head said, "Old Yang is the best coroner here, no less skilled than those in the Supreme Court." He then remembered Zhu Ying might have her reasons for seeking expertise outside the Supreme Court.

Zhu Ying kept her reasons private. Master Yang, despite his skills, did not presume to be Zhu Ying's formal teacher due to her official status. They agreed informally, with Zhu Ying addressing him as "Master Yang" and he, in turn, calling her "young official."

After leaving Master Yang's house, the jail head took her to meet a familiar jailer, a sergeant. The sergeant, respectful in his speech, questioned what he could possibly teach a young official.

Zhu Ying smiled, "Every profession has its tricks. I'm not here to take your job, just to safeguard my own by learning more."

This response showed her humility and intelligence. The sergeant explained their conduct mirrored the strictness or leniency of their superiors, showing no personal initiative.

Zhu Ying joked, "So you understand both leniency and strictness. I've found a treasure!" She thanked the jail head for finding the right person and promised a reward.

The sergeant modestly declined, wondering what Zhu Ying wished to learn. Despite wearing prison garb, he was just earning a living.

Zhu Ying assured him she wouldn't cause any trouble. "Causing you trouble today would implicate the jail head and deter future assistance. I'm new to this city and need to work with others. Don't worry, we'll have a long time to get along."

Encouraged by the jail head, the sergeant agreed, "Alright. Your words are reasonable, and you seem reliable. I'll listen to you."

They immediately discussed the previous day's case, with Zhu Ying inquiring about the nuances of administering beatings.

The sergeant explained the need for practice to discern between visible injuries and internal damage that could be fatal or superficial wounds that heal quickly. However, he noted they now avoid such practices in front of Judge Wang.

Zhu Ying asked how to recognize and verify such injuries.

The sergeant shared insights, "Attentive officials can understand these distinctions. The current practice is to observe the convict for several days post-beating; deaths within this period are attributed to the beating. This approach applies to assault cases, distinguishing between immediate and delayed fatal injuries. Unlike others, Judge Wang insists on adherence to regulations, splitting the eighty lashes into two sessions to avoid fatal outcomes."

Zhu Yi nodded, "There's a clause in the law for that."

"What good does that do? It's always been there, but not followed…" The sergeant shrugged, indicating the routine overlook of such matters. "Like the case yesterday, a woman killed for talking back to her mother-in-law; it's overlooked unless scrutinized by someone like Prefect Wang. Normally, these domestic disputes are glossed over, not wanting to bother with a complicated and thankless process."

Zhu Yi, a great conversationalist, encouraged further discussion, eliciting more insights. As curfew approached, the sergeant expressed a wish for future visits.

Soon, Zhu Yi became familiar with the coroner and sergeant. On the day after Chen Jia was to be caned, she visited the sergeant again. Zhang Xianjun worried about her late-night returns, urging a conversation at home.

Zhu Yi mentioned she had matters to attend to.

Concerned, Zhang Xianjun proposed following Zhu Yi, suspecting her of mishandling their accounts with the rice shop.

…………

They attempted to tail Zhu Yi but were easily shaken off. Coincidentally, they ran into her again.

Resigned, Zhu Yi invited them along, cautioning them to keep silent about what they might hear or see.

The family arrived at the sergeant's home, where Zhang Xianjun, unclear on the sergeant's importance to Zhu Yi, treated him cordially, offering familial terms.

The sergeant was confused but managed a vague acknowledgment.

Zhang Xianjun cheerfully called him "big brother" again.

Zhu Yi explained to Zhang Ban Zhang that she had business that she hadn't wanted her parents to know about, but now saw no need to hide it from them.

Zhang Ban Zhang asked, "What's the matter?"

Zhu Ying said, "Tomorrow, there are forty more lashes."

Zhang Xian Gu exclaimed excitedly upon understanding their conversation, "Beat him to death?! That's great!"

"Mother!" Zhu Ying swiftly interrupted her, sincerely telling the overseer, "To be frank, this case has some connections with me. I've met the girl who died, and she even appeared in my dreams yesterday. If I don't avenge her, I won't be at peace."

Zhang Xian Gu said, "Oh my, visited by the ghost of the wronged? Why didn't you tell me earlier? I'll burn some paper money for her to pacify her spirit! Oh, the power of such spirits!"

Zhu Ying to Zhang Ban Tou, "There's no need for you to beat him to death, letting him off too easily if he dies swiftly. Just make it a bit heavier so he feels the torment of being alive and suffering from the beating," handing him a small packet wrapped in green cloth filled with silver.

"This can be arranged," Zhang Ban Tou accepted, weighing the silver, about seven or eight taels, thinking it very profitable for merely making the lashes a bit heavier. "If he's beaten severely, then sent to penal servitude, dying in jail won't be on us! And if he doesn't die, the hard labor will finish him. Excellent!"

Zhang Xian Gu, energized, opened her purse to add twenty more coins, "Brother Zhang, add another twenty coins!"