However, Xu Meng's troops were stationed outside the town. The military discipline of the Great Qi was strict. Seventeen orders and fifty-four executions were allowed. No one was allowed to approach the military camp. Looking at the sentry who was standing guard with a bow, Zeng Wu did not dare to move forward for a moment.
Although he could put the things down and ask the guards to pass on the message, Zeng Wu felt that it would be too embarrassing to return the gift directly, and the guards might not be able to express the message clearly. It would be better for him to go to Yicui Pavilion in person and explain it to Captain Xu to avoid misunderstanding.
In a blink of an eye, it was evening. Kong Hanan was still asleep when Zeng Wu came to Yicui Pavilion with a gift box.
As soon as he stepped into the private room, he heard the county magistrate's voice: "Captain Zeng? Why are you here? Are you here to curry favor with the emperor?"
The county magistrate's surname is Xia, and his given name is Tie. He was a successful candidate in the imperial examination ten years ago. He was promoted to county magistrate due to his merits. He also has some skills and has been in Helue Town for several years.
Of course, Xu Meng hosted a banquet for more than just Kong Hanan. The county magistrate, county lieutenant, and chief clerk were all invited.
Zeng Wu bowed and looked around, and found that Xu Meng had not arrived yet, but Shangguan was suspicious and had to respond.
"Sir, how dare I? I fought alongside Captain Xu today. He knew I was acquainted with Kong Han'an, so he asked me to invite him to tonight's banquet. However, Brother Kong had important matters and couldn't come. I couldn't contact Captain Xu at the moment, so I had no choice but to come here in person to apologize."
It would have been fine if Kong Hanan hadn't been mentioned, but as soon as Kong Hanan was mentioned, the county magistrate's expression became a little strange.
He has the responsibility to recommend. Kong Hanan encountered problems several times when taking the exams, and the county has a record of it.
Magistrate Xia, out of a sense of responsibility, personally summoned Kong Han'an. Kong Han'an was a successful candidate in the imperial examination and was talented, and he could also recognize other talented scholars.
But Kong Hanan had no talent at all, he was just a lazy and sloppy guy, and County Magistrate Xia had given up on Kong Hanan.
Xia Tie had also heard about what happened today, but he didn't take it to heart.
The things about being favored by the Queen Mother of the Underworld and being able to fly are nothing but rumors spread by ignorant people. This guy just had some quick wit at the critical moment and got lucky.
What's the purpose of the captain inviting me here now? Are you blaming me for not judging people well?
Fortunately, the guy refused.
Xia Tie seized the opportunity to block the road and shouted, "What a bastard! How dare you refuse to come when Captain Xu invites you? You are disrespecting an official of the imperial court! The county lieutenant, take your men and bring him here!"
Zeng Wu's face changed drastically.
"Sir, no!"
The county lieutenant said sinisterly, "Captain Zeng, you and Kong Hanan are very close friends, so it's best if you don't interfere in this matter."
Zeng Wu was speechless. He was not worried about the Kong brothers, he was worried about the county lieutenant and the yamen runners.
But what could he do? Should he confront the county lieutenant and the magistrate? Tell them they would never return?
Forget it, let them go. I’m not the one who will suffer anyway.
Zeng Wu stood aside with his hands behind his back, not saying a word.
Continue read on readnovelmtl.com
