"Shen Wanjian, do not obstruct the yamen in carrying out its duties...
For ordinary minor matters, I could give you some face.
But this is a matter of human lives, not something I can simply let go with a few words. Even if I, Yan, were willing to turn and leave, the Prefect would never tolerate such wickedness."
"Wickedness? Officer Yan, please think thrice."
Shen Wanjian was merely mad, not foolish.
He knew there was no reasoning with them now.
The long sword on his back flashed as it drew, barring the other man's path. "If Officer Yan insists on going his own way, I, Shen Wanjian, know you—but whether this sword knows you is another matter."
"Brother, hit him! He's making me furious!"
Behind Shen Wanjian, a woman dressed in men's clothes, wearing a blue robe and small cap, clenched her pearly teeth and tiny fists as she cheered him on.
Lu Wu-bing recognized her at once.
Wasn't this Shen Xinzhu, whom he had parted with at home not long ago?
Where was that quiet, elegant demeanor she had shown before?
Shen Wanjian must have arrived so quickly because she had sent word.
"These siblings really know how to handle things. When trouble comes, they truly step up..."
Lu Wu-bing silently lowered the sword in his hand and released his right grip.
If the Shen Family could fend off this scheme, there would be no need for him to take such a desperate risk...
After all, [Gold Jade Hall] was the local tiger of Mingyang, with countless disciples and immense wealth and power.
No matter what, even the authorities had to show them some consideration.
Otherwise, if they provoked them too fiercely, they would have to worry whether their seats were truly secure.
Since Mingyang Prefect Zhao Shilian was