Chapter 21: Unexpected Twists

Chapter 21: Unexpected Twists

Since arriving in this world and unraveling the intricacies of her family's relationships, Jiang Yunxin had prepared herself for a solitary journey through life.

Yet, to her great surprise, while her home was cold and distant, she found an unwavering friend in the academy – Jing Fenghua.

Jiang Yunxin had observed him closely.

Their relationship was that of true friends, akin to siblings without any complicated romantic entanglements. This bond brought her a sense of security and stability that she could embrace openly.

When Jiang Yunxin was falsely accused, Jing Fenghua rushed forth without hesitation to defend her justice.

And when Jing Fenghua was wronged, she too was ready to trust him unconditionally.

Friendship was a two-way street.

In this era, Jing Fenghua represented the sole warmth and support Jiang Yunxin dared to trust, a rare beacon of comfort amidst adversity.

"Good then," Jing Fenghua said. "Actually, I'm not afraid at all. I believe you can definitely help clear my name."

Jiang Yunxin observed his confident demeanor and asked, "Why?"

Jing Fenghua replied, "In the past, it didn't matter. But now, you're part of the Criminal Justice Bureau. They're very capable, with no cases of wrongful convictions in all these years. Do you know why I suggested you join them before? I've always wanted to be part of the bureau too. Unfortunately, I don't have the skills of a forensic examiner, or I would have competed with you for the position."

To her surprise, the Criminal Justice Bureau held a favorable image in Jing Fenghua's mind, not being portrayed as an inferno of torture and brutality.

Despite having much to discuss, the current setting was clearly not suitable for a conversation.

After exchanging a few hurried words, Jing Fenghua left with his parents.

Both of them resided in the capital. Even though Jiang Yunxin had left the academy, she was merely working at the Criminal Justice Bureau, not entering the palace as a concubine or going to some isolated place. They could meet whenever they wished.

Once the busy days were over, they could go out for a meal and drinks.

After being on high alert throughout the night, Jiang Yunxin finally felt exhaustion as people dispersed. She bid farewell to everyone and retreated to her room for a two-hour nap.

Zhong Kaile confessed promptly, acknowledging the solid evidence against him.

Thus, there was no need to dwell on this case. It wasn't a particularly brutal or premeditated murder; it ultimately boiled down to an accident.

Zhong Kaile only intended for Feng Li to stumble and receive a beating from Jing Fenghua. However, he never expected the fall to be so disastrous.

Ever since Jiang Yunxin joined the Criminal Justice Bureau, she had dealt with several cases, none of which were major, but all were handled efficiently, leaving a favorable impression on her superiors.

Fang Mingyan was quite pleased with this new forensic examiner.

The next morning, Jiang Yunxin accompanied Fang Mingyan's team to the Criminal Justice Bureau for her official start.

"I really didn't expect this," Jiang Yunxin couldn't help but murmur to herself. "In my previous life, I toiled through decades of hard study to become a forensic doctor. In this life, there was no cooling-off period. Barely a month has passed, and I've already switched careers successfully."

Opportunities truly favor the prepared.

Long Qiao walked alongside her, hearing her muttering but unable to make out what she was saying. He asked out of curiosity, "What was Little Jiang saying? Did you forget something, or is there something you need to attend to? Now that you're officially a forensic examiner here at the bureau, we're all on the same team. Speak up if there's anything. Don't be too formal."

Fang Mingyan didn't speak, but he nodded slightly as well.

It wasn't just the Criminal Bureau; finding a suitable and competent coroner was a challenge in any era. As long as the request wasn't too excessive, he was willing to display his superior's leniency and understanding of his subordinates' difficulties.

Majesty was necessary, but warmth was equally important. If one couldn't earn their subordinates' willing devotion, how could they expect them to work wholeheartedly?

Jiang Yunxin hurriedly said, "No, there's nothing. Nothing at all. Lord Long, Brother Xia, you both are wonderful. I'm truly happy working here at the Criminal Bureau. It feels like... being reborn."

These were her sincere words. At present, she didn't have many options. Staying at the academy forever was impossible. Working as a coroner in the Criminal Bureau was the best path for her.

Although this era was already quite progressive and open, with male and female students attending the academy, the general situation remained grim.

Upon completing their studies, male students would leave the academy and join various institutions, gradually climbing the ranks of the bureaucracy.

In contrast, the ultimate destination for female students was still to return home, marry, and become a wife and mother. Their time at the academy merely transformed them into educated young ladies.

After all, the Flourishing Dynasty didn't have female officials.

Thus, it was truly surprising that the Criminal Bureau was willing to accept a female coroner like her.

Though no one dared to criticize Fang Mingyan openly, there were surely many whispers behind his back. However, Jiang Yunxin didn't mind; she only hoped that Fang Mingyan could bear with it too and not take the gossip to heart. She believed in her ability to repay his favor and recognition.

Fang Mingyan walked with his head held high, his chest puffed out. Despite his expressionless face, he felt at ease within.

His subordinates were competent, but they lacked eloquence and subtlety. None had been as skilled as Jiang Yunxin in flattering him with sweet words. Moreover, she was a young lady, a beautiful one at that. Who wouldn't enjoy being praised by an attractive woman? Whether sincere or not, it was pleasant to hear.

In a good mood, Fang Mingyan naturally wanted to offer Jiang Yunxin more benefits.

He gave her a once-over. "I see that your luggage is light; you must have left many things behind at the academy. I'll give you half a day off. Is there anything else you need? Go get them."

Young ladies usually had more personal belongings, and even their clothing required more frequent changes than men's.

Jiang Yunxin was delighted upon hearing this.

Despite having spent some time in this era, she had never truly leisurely enjoyed strolling through the streets.

Previously, she hadn't had the inclination, despite having some money at hand. Lost in the uncertainty of her path, she faced a world she was familiar with but had changed over a thousand years – the roles of an undertaker and a forensic scientist were distinct.

With the same fervor she'd shown during her college entrance exams, Jiang Yunxin absorbed knowledge of the era's forensic practices, striving to blend in seamlessly. Now that matters had settled, she could finally afford some leisure time.

"Thank you, Your Excellency," Jiang Yunxin said promptly.

Long Qiao kindly offered, "Hand me your belongings then. I'll carry them back for you."

Jiang Yunxin nodded eagerly. If Jing Fenghua weren't occupied at home, she would've dragged him along for company and as a local guide.

Xue Dongyang, on the other hand, kindly suggested, "Is it convenient for you to go alone? Do you need me to accompany you?"

"No, no, how can I impose on you like that?" Jiang Yunxin waved her hands hastily. "I'll just wander around casually. No need to trouble yourself."

With Jiang Yunxin's insistence, everyone dispersed, each going their separate ways.

Carrying her purse, Jiang Yunxin strolled down the capital's streets, humming a tune, her heart filled with joy.

She had purchased a few trinkets and chosen two signature dishes at a restaurant. Yet, halfway through her meal, she regretted her decision.

If only she had mustered the courage to invite Xue Dongyang along for the shopping trip. That way, they could have faced any unexpected situations together.