Chapter 35: Searching for a Needle in a Haystack

Chapter 35: Searching for a Needle in a Haystack

Cui Yun shook her head in confusion. "No, I only have a younger brother."

Long Qiao asked, "What about your brother?"

It was possible that the brother disguised as a woman, but given his strength, he might've found it easier to kill Ma Xiuneng.

With a tinge of sorrow, Cui Yun replied, "My brother is no longer with us."

Long Qiao was taken aback but still asked, "When did this happen?"

"It's been seven years," Cui Yun said. "He passed away with my parents. Sigh, only my grandmother and I were left to fend for ourselves. Back then, I was still young, and my grandmother was still in good health. We lived in our village."

The village Cui Yun mentioned was the same one she had described to Long Qiao the previous night – not in the capital, but not too far away either. It would take around two days on foot, perhaps longer for the weak, but on horseback, they could reach it in half a day at full gallop.

Upon returning to the inn, Long Qiao reported the conversation to Fang Mingyan.

Fang Mingyan promptly instructed, "Send someone to Zhuwen Village to verify if what she said is true."

In a small village, it's impossible to hide the existence of twins, whether the younger sibling is a boy or a girl.

Long Qiao promptly arranged for someone to investigate.

The journey would be swift; it was still midday, and they'd arrive by evening. If all went well, they could return that very night.

Of course, the officials from the Criminal Bureau weren't idle either. Ma Xiuneng wouldn't just pick up anyone from the street to bring home. Even if he had, such a meticulously planned murder couldn't have occurred without reason.

With no members of the Ma family present, Jiang Yunxin spoke candidly, "Considering what Ma Xiuneng has done over the years, isn't it reasonable to assume that even if ten women wanted to kill him, it wouldn't be out of the ordinary?"

Her words left no room for argument.

Despite being a gathering of men with only Jiang Yunxin as the sole female, none dared to justify a man's promiscuous behavior as a romantic tale.

Everyone nodded in agreement.

Indeed, that was the kind of person Ma Xiuneng was.

As the saying goes, "To die beneath the peony flower, even as a ghost, one remains debonair." Apart from his parents, most others who heard of his demise would likely think he got what he deserved.

It's just not something to speak aloud about.

Fang Mingyan had no intention of investigating the case, but given that it involved a murder and a nobleman's son, he had no choice but to proceed.

Thus, Fang Mingyan said to Jiang Yunxin, "You can say this here, but be cautious outside. The Ma family is still in a rage. If they hear you talking like this, they won't let it slide easily."

In lighter terms, they might believe that Jiang Yunxin brought misfortune upon Ma Xiuneng.

In more severe scenarios, they might suspect Jiang Yunxin as the murderer.

To her surprise, Fang Mingyan turned out to be quite considerate. Jiang Yunxin nodded repeatedly. "I understand, I understand. I just needed to vent here, away from outsiders. I promise I won't mention it outside."

Not only would she keep quiet, but she also planned to pay her respects at Ma Xiuneng's grave.

Since the person was already gone and Fang Mingyan had vowed to handle the aftermath, why shouldn't she display grace and propriety for a better reputation? It couldn't hurt if she ever had a falling out with the Jiang family in the future.

Jiang Yunxin wasn't an innocent newcomer to society, though she was still unfamiliar with this era. However, human nature remained constant throughout history.

Unaware of Jiang Yunxin's strategic thinking, Fang Mingyan was content with her willingness to listen to his advice.

The young lass was innocent and candid, not understanding the situation was fine, but the worry was that she might not listen even if told.

Fang Mingyan said, "Since Ma Xiuneng was murdered, the culprit must be a woman. Everyone, take these portraits and split up to go to the places he frequented. Ask those familiar with him if they've seen any interaction between him and the killer."

The group acknowledged his instructions.

Jiang Yunxin sighed, reflecting that throughout history, the first step in solving a case remained the same: conducting investigations and inquiries. It was the most troublesome and time-consuming stage, akin to searching for a needle in a haystack, sometimes to the point of nausea.

But there was no other choice, as the murderer wouldn't just jump into a bowl on their own. They had to search.

Although Jiang Yunxin was merely an undertaker, she felt it wouldn't be proper for her not to show enthusiasm in her new role. Thus, she volunteered, "Your Excellency, I'll join you."

Undertaking was a highly specialized occupation, dealing primarily with autopsies.

Fang Mingyan had initially recruited Jiang Yunxin without expecting her to do double duty. However, since she offered, it wasn't entirely unacceptable.

In their department of criminal justice, apart from cooks, everyone else had a diverse range of tasks. After all, capable individuals were scarce. Fang Mingyan, known for his generosity, would provide extra compensation for those undertaking tasks outside their usual domain.

Nonetheless, the places they were visiting on this trip might not be suitable for Jiang Yunxin.

Ma Xiuneng's usual haunts in the capital were none other than the pleasure districts and refined brothels.

Fang Mingyan said, "It wouldn't be proper for a young lady like you to go there."

Despite her curiosity, Jiang Yunxin couldn't help but agree with Fang Mingyan.

However, Fang Mingyan suggested, "You should accompany Xue Dongyang to Yanyu Pavilion."

Jiang Yunxin was familiar with Yanyu Pavilion—it was a pavilion situated on Yanyu Lake, connected to the shore by an arched bridge. The pavilion was spacious, spanning two levels. Lotus flowers bloomed in the lake while willows hung low along its banks, making it a popular spot among literary scholars in the capital for poetic exchanges, drinking sessions, and social gatherings.

Jiang Yunxin held no interest in such affairs.

Hmph, don't try to compete with me in culture, or I might recite 'Invitation to Wine' and leave all of you stunned. I've researched, people of this era don't know who Li Bai is.

Fang Mingyan continued, "Although Ma Xiuneng indulges in a hedonistic lifestyle, he also has a fondness for the refined arts and often visits Yanyu Pavilion to meet friends through literary pursuits."

Jiang Yunxin's mind wandered, involuntarily conjuring up three words: 'erotic literature.' Friends through literary pursuits, huh?

Fang Mingyan called out, "Jiang Yunxin."

"Ai," Jiang Yunxin quickly regained her composure. "Yes, Your Excellency."

Fang Mingyan frowned at her. "You're already good? You know what I'm asking you to do?"

It was obviously for her to investigate and gather information. What else could it be?

For a man like Ma Xiuneng, women were also a source of bragging rights. His companions might have some knowledge about the girls around him.

But Jiang Yunxin remained silent. Wise as she was, she knew not to assume she understood her superior's intentions.

So, she vaguely replied, "I'll look into it."

Fortunately, Fang Mingyan approved. "Yan Yu Lou is always bustling with activity, not only with talented men but also talented women. It's a place ladies who enjoy reading often visit. You won't seem out of place there. Be adaptable in other situations, and consult Xue Dongyang if you have any doubts."

This was how experienced mentors guided newcomers.

Jiang Yunxin promptly acknowledged his instruction.

Fang Mingyan added, "Regarding the matter just now, since I've agreed to help, I'll take care of it. There's no need to worry."

Putting aside other matters, Fang Mingyan was satisfied with Jiang Yunxin's skill in autopsy; finding a reliable forensic examiner was no easy task. He wished to retain her talent while also unwilling to see an innocent woman fall into the Ma family's trap.

With their assignments assigned, they each departed.

Jiang Yunxin accompanied Xue Dongyang to Misty Rain Tower.

Upon arriving at the lakeside, she let out a sigh.