After Transmigration, I Picked Up A Husband and Daughter
Chapter 161: Solving Alone

Chapter 161: Chapter 161: Solving Alone

"Utter nonsense... Have all of you been bewitched by that demoness’s Love Potion? It’s truly..."

"Pah!"

Before Fang Qin could finish, she spit disdainfully, her eyes full of contempt.

"Nothing but sycophantic vermin."

It happened to be a coincidence that just as Fang Qin seethed with indignation, her stomach timely growled with hunger, reminding her of her unresolved needs for food and warmth.

From inside out, she felt uncomfortable all over, yet still had to drag her weary body to continue the journey.

With great difficulty, the group staggered to the entrance of the county government, where Fang Qin seemed to instantly fill with strength, her spirit rejuvenated as if infused with endless energy.

Her gaze was sharp as a knife, sweeping over Su Yu, and the fierce intent contained therein was unmistakable: you cunning villain, watch how I bring you to justice.

Just at that moment, the judge’s gavel suddenly struck down, a "bang" echoing through the hall, and the government officials on both sides swung their water and fire sticks, striking the ground, and collectively shouting, "Authority—Might—", the momentum was imposing, shaking one’s soul.

After this solemn opening, the County Magistrate, seated upright, then asked in a deep voice, "Who stands below in this hall?"

Taking this opportunity, Fang Qin energetically began to accuse of Su Yu’s "vile behavior," exaggerating her depiction of Su Yu as a venomous, deliberate arsonist who almost caused her demise.

Su Yu was secretly surprised, never expecting Fang Qin to possess such acting skills.

After witnessing Fang Qin’s vivid "performance," the County Magistrate asked, "Defendant in the hall, do you admit to these charges?"

Su Yu, with a sincere face, gave a deep bow to the seated County Magistrate and responded composedly, "Replying to your honor, this humble girl dares not admit to these charges, as they are baseless and severely misaligned with the facts."

Her gentle and cultured demeanor formed a stark contrast to Fang Qin’s near-hysterical screaming, subtly earning the County Magistrate’s appreciation.

Upon hearing this, Fang Qin immediately became furiously agitated: "You still dare to argue? My hair, my clothes, these are the evidence! Don’t think you can deny them, your Honor, you must decide for me!"

Faced with Fang Qin’s crying and pleading, the County Magistrate, frustrated and annoyed, fiercely struck the gavel and shouted, "Silence!"

The government officials again struck the ground with their sticks, shouting, "Authority—Might—", filling the air with an undeniable authority.

At this moment, Su Yu, as if awakened from a great dream, finally understood the profound meaning behind this ceremony.

Such a solemn and august scene was enough to instill fear in the hearts of those with nefarious intentions, even Fang Qin trembled uncontrollably under the pressure of this atmosphere, struggling to keep her footing, each step a painful struggle, staggering forward.

In such a condition, even if one walked day and night for three days and three nights, reaching Willow Village seemed but a vain hope.

Su Yu knew well that she must find a way to break the deadlock.

Meanwhile, through her interactions with the County Magistrate and Jiang Jiashun, she also learned that the Magistrate, named Song Junde, originally from Jiangqiu, had been serving in this region for seven years and had substantial accomplishments.

He particularly cared for the education at Qi Mountain, a concern stemming not only from the affection a senior has for a junior but also from his respect and yearning for knowledge.

This care masked a deep friendship with the dean of Green Cloud Academy, the long-revered and extensively learned Ning Qingyun.

Their friendship originated from a chance meeting years ago when they conversed under the moon, discussing literary matters of the world, forging a bond that remained unbroken ever since.

It was said that Jiang Qishan, at such a young age, had already achieved the title of Child Scholar, and the surprise in his heart was like a sudden rain in spring: unexpected and refreshing.

It was not just because of Jiang Qishan’s age, but more so because of the recognition and admiration for his intelligence that exceeded ordinary people.

"So, this autumn, you’re going to embark on the imperial examination, the dream path of countless scholars?"

The words were filled with expectation and encouragement.

Jiang Qishan pursed his lips slightly, a minute gesture revealing his inner nervousness and shyness.

He nodded lightly, his eyes flickering with longing and unease for the future.

This green firmness stirred an involuntary admiration for the courage of this youth.

Seeing this, Song Junde quietly took a breath. From Jiang Qishan’s words, he captured a maturity and depth of scholarship that transcended his age.

In his view, this child held an unmined treasure of knowledge in his heart, and the upcoming exam was a great opportunity for him to shine brightly.

Perhaps, in the near future, Jiang Qishan’s name would prominently appear on that glorious golden list, paving a brilliant and radiant path for his life.

For such a moldable talent with immense potential, Song Junde cherished him all the more. His words were like a warm and firm spring breeze melting the ice, "Should you face tumultuous waves in the ocean of academics, remember, my door is always open for you, welcoming you at any time to seek help."

Song Junde’s promise shone like a beam of light, instantly illuminating Jiang Qishan’s heart, a flicker of incredulous joy passing through his eyes.

"Really?"

The tone was full of hope and caution, as if afraid this was only a beautiful dream that would vanish upon waking.

"Of course."

Song Junde’s response was steady and forceful, his serious expression leaving no room for doubt.

Jiang Qishan seized this rare opportunity, deciding not to hesitate any longer.

He knew that although the words of great men are as precious as gold, they often vanish with the wind, and once missed, might never be reachable again.

"Actually, I am currently facing a dilemma that I cannot resolve alone."

Upon hearing this, a spark of interest flashed in Song Junde’s eyes. He looked at Jiang Qishan with keen interest, curious about what unusual request this young man would make.

Jiang Qishan carefully chose his words, slowly stating, "My mother is frail and completely unable to handle heavy tasks; my father, due to old injuries, gets breathless with even a little labor. Our household lacks workforce, and both of my elderly parents lead a very hard life. They believe that studying cannot immediately improve our family’s situation, and even doubt its value, thus, they hope that I stay home to help and give up the path of continuing my studies."

Su Yu, who was quietly listening by his side, couldn’t help but feel stirred. She knew well that in this era where men were valued over women, most families would do everything to support a son’s education in hopes of him succeeding in the civil examinations and bringing glory to the family.

However, Jiang Qishan’s situation was strikingly contrary to the norm, and it surprised her.

Earlier, Jiang Qishan, not wanting to worry Jiang Ziling, had made the excuse of coming home early for the holidays, and Su Yu had vaguely sensed that things were not simple.

Now, seeing the full truth, that helplessness and anguish were so profoundly real.

Upon hearing this, Song Junde’s brows furrowed, a line of displeasure emerging, "How preposterous! For a farmer’s son, the civil examination is the only bridge to change one’s fate. How can it be easily severed due to the hardships of life?"