Done! Your Majesty is going to prostitute me for free!

Chapter 73

Li Yihao's words were like an iron rock, resounding and vibrating in the quiet lobby of the yamen. It seemed that every note carried the power of breaking the old and establishing the new. It was deeply engraved on the heavy documents, "In my opinion and with my own hands, In just three short months of the new policy we have formulated, the land of Jinlinfang will undergo a drastic change and take on a new look that has never been seen before!"

As soon as these words came out, it was like a huge meteorite crashing into the middle of a quiet lake, causing endless circles of ripples. Those ripples seemed to be telling a prophecy that some kind of change was coming. They spread out, Until it touches the most sensitive nerve endings in the hearts of every clerk present.

The clerks exchanged complicated glances with each other, with looks of surprise and suspicion intertwined in their gazes. The emotions surging deep in their hearts were too complicated to describe in words alone.

They have two-sided emotional entanglement with this set of governance strategies proposed by Mr. Li: on the one hand, they are deeply impressed by its tight logic and firmness and determination, and feel that this is a powerful medicine to solve the current predicament; On the one hand, they can also clearly see that this new policy is like a double-edged sword, and its sharp point is directed at the living habits that have been passed down from generation to generation and have been integrated into the blood of the people. The gap between this change and tradition cannot be easily bridged. The implementation process will undoubtedly face various unexpected difficulties and challenges.

However, at this moment, facing Mr. Li's calmness rising from the bottom of his heart, the majesty naturally revealed from his inner self-confidence, coupled with the high authority shining above his head, the hesitation and hesitation in the hearts of all the minor officials The uneasiness gradually melted away and turned into a silent acquiescence and compliance. They understand that even if the road ahead is full of thorns, they cannot stop Mr. Li from leading them towards an unknown but innovative future. Under this unquestionable authority, they chose to lower their heads, hold on to the pens in their hands, and prepare for the coming baptism of wind and thunder.

In that seemingly majestic and solemn government, although they hold important positions, in the chaotic and chaotic sea of ​​real life, their flesh and blood are no different from the common people on the streets, and they also bear the imprint of the ups and downs of the world. Faced with the ever-changing current situation, they had to learn to go with the flow, accept humiliation and gradually integrate into this social governance system that has both an idealized blueprint and a cruel reality.

Under such circumstances, they were like a hidden undercurrent deep in their hearts, praying silently, hoping that Mr. Li, who had become famous, could turn the tide with his new policies and activate the Jin Linfang community like a sudden storm. The long-dormant vitality of the land has led it into a new historical stage, thus achieving a profound transformation and leap from texture to soul.

At this moment, Li Yihao, the spiritual mainstay of Jin Linfang, felt a surge of emotion that could not be described in words. It was like a river breaking through the ice in early spring, breaking free from the constraints and running wildly. The lines of perseverance and contentment are quietly carved between the brows, silently expressing the pride and perseverance in the heart.

This pride in his heart was like a glimmer of light, igniting a shining beacon in Li Yihao's eyes. His gaze was as deep as a bright pearl in the night sky, shining with a unique brilliance that was both sharp and confident. He straightened his back and stood as proudly as a thousand-year-old pine. Every step made a sound, and he walked to the rhythm of the majestic mountains and rivers. He walked through the vast hall of the yamen. His loud and powerful words were like the music played by an ancient bronze chime, echoing leisurely:
"Colleagues, I urge you to listen attentively. This matter is of no small importance. It is related to the life and death of Jin Linfang. It is urgent for you to jointly shoulder the mission and move forward together." He spoke for a while, but his breath became calmer, "Take action immediately. , we must visit one by one those talented men and wise men in the house who have never put down their scrolls and have a treasure trove of poems and books. No matter where they are, we must invite them to the mansion. We must gather around the warm fire, raise glasses and drink together, chat happily, and discuss the past and present. A warm and intense collision of ideas, where the sparks of wisdom blend and burn!"

Li Yihao's words are like iron and stone hitting a copper chime. Each word is like a carefully polished pearl, falling one by one into the warm jade plate that contains all things. It is not only crisp and sweet, but also loud and clear in rhythm. He emphasized sincerely: "Although Li Yihao is in charge of Jin Linfang today, we must always remember that the source of nourishment for this city lies in the group of scholars who are immersed in books day and night and are determined to explore knowledge. , they are the core supporting Jin Linfang’s spiritual world.”

Immediately afterwards, his words became more firm: "Remember, the key points I just stated must be accurately engraved on the notice word for word, and ensure that it is displayed in the most conspicuous place at the gate, so that all people inside and outside Jin Linfang can People can have the opportunity to see it with their own eyes and deeply understand its profound meaning."

In this passage, Li Yihao showed his deep concern for the suffering of the people at the bottom and his high respect for the dignity of the people. Every subtle texture on his face and every movement of his eyes conveyed his sincerity, magnanimity and tenacity. unyielding.

As this deafening last sentence fell, Li Yihao's figure slowly turned, and his clothes swayed gently with the breeze, just like a vivid and realistic picture slowly unfolding in front of everyone's eyes. What he left behind was endless astonishment and deep thought for the slightly frightened clerks behind him. They all froze on the spot, communicating with each other with surprised eyes, as if they were still trying to learn from Li Yihao's courageous and wise words. Recover the touch of reality in the ripples.

At that moment, the shock of his words was like a bell striking deep in everyone's heart. In an instant, Jin Linfang became particularly solemn because of Li Yihao's presence, and also radiated with life because of his words and teachings. The vibrant atmosphere is like an originally silent city being instantly injected with vitality and vitality.

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Among the long, narrow and deep alleys of North Langfang, Li Dexian's face was like a burning coal in a furnace, red enough to clearly reflect the raging anger in his heart. His emotions were like surging lava, surging in his chest. The invisible tongs of anger seemed to be imprinted on his heart, making every inch of his skin seem to be boiling with indignation.

He suddenly straightened his body and raised his arms with all his strength. His determination was like a piece of iron stone that had been baptized by wind and rain without changing its strong character. His hoarse and high-pitched voice surged in the narrow space of the alley, and every syllable bursting out from the depths of his throat seemed to turn into battle flags of tenacious resistance. The moment he solemnly declared his oath to his brothers , flying firmly in the air: "Absolutely not allowed! The environmental protection team deserves monthly regular money, no matter what, we will never allow anyone's greedy hands to invade it in the slightest!"

However, outside of this fierce atmosphere, Lin Xiaofeng sat calmly in a corner, with a leisurely and contented expression, as calm and peaceful as the surface of a quiet lake. He held a steaming cup of fragrant tea lightly in his hand. The leisurely temperature of the cup of tea was just like his mood at the moment. On the surface, he was calm and calm, but in fact, deep down in his heart, he had already brewed a clever and cunning coping strategy.

Lin Xiaofeng slowly opened his lips and teeth, and when the words flowed out, his tone was smooth and contained profound wisdom: "Old Li, if there is no other feasible way besides this, we may have to make up our minds and give up. You see The expenses of the environmental protection team are like a torrent after the river thaws in spring, surging and unstoppable. Are you really willing to step into the palace like a dragon's den and a tiger's den again to seek the elusive salvation in order to maintain this amount? "

His deep eyes were like a cold pool at night, seemingly capable of penetrating into all the darkest and most secret corners of human nature in the world.

When Li Dexian heard this, his eyes suddenly bulged, and his anger surged out like a torrent. He stared blankly at Lin Xiaofeng. Every word seemed to pop out of the tight strings of a piano, full of his unwavering commitment to his oath. Panshi's defense also revealed his struggle and pain in the real dilemma: "The key to the current dispute is not whether it is necessary for me to return to the palace! I once made a sonorous and powerful oath to those brothers who were sincere and sincere. To improve their living conditions and increase their salary, once these words are blurted out, it will be like spring rain that splashes on the earth, and it is difficult to collect the water. If I betray this promise now, won't I be reduced to a clown who can only talk and have no integrity? ?”

He asked Lin Xiaofeng with an almost thunderous tone, every sound was like a steel knife hammering on an anvil: "Do you remember that it was you who personally decided on the salary of five silver coins per person per month? Benchmark, but in just a few days, you are planning to change your tune, how can you betray others' trust in you so rashly?"

Faced with Li Dexian's severe accusation, Lin Xiaofeng still maintained his transcendent calm and calmness, shook his head slightly, and although his words were vague, they contained truth that was difficult to refute: "How can we talk about breaking one's trust? What about the people? Your Highness, it is true that a gentleman's promise is hard to keep. However, sticking too much to old rules and bad habits will show a rigid and outdated side. Nowadays, things in the world are changing rapidly like a chess game, and the salary system of the environmental protection team is indeed unreasonable. .When we make decisions, we not only have to weigh our own interests, but also take into account the overall situation."

He further analyzed the core of the problem: "Imagine if we raise the salary standard to a high level just because of the environmental protection team, how should the salary of other personnel in the Southeast and West City be adjusted? Their teams are likely to suffer from this. Deep resentment may even lead to internal turmoil. At that time, I don’t know how many families will fall into difficulties and suffer from hunger. Moreover, life is full of changes and is changing rapidly. The me of yesterday has passed with the passage of time. And as it gradually becomes history, how can the words of the deceased be used as the basis for today’s code of conduct?”

Lin Xiaofeng's face was solemn, and every word was endowed with profound philosophical connotations and unique wisdom: "Your Highness, this is a strategic plan that affects the overall situation. We must be cautious."

On Lin Xiaofeng's angular face, a teasing smile bloomed quietly, like ice and snow under the winter sun, both dazzling and cold. For Li Dexian, this smile was undoubtedly an invisible sharp sword that penetrated deep into his heart and stirred up the fire of anger that he had suppressed for a long time. In an instant, Li Dexian's body seemed to turn into a tiger that had been holding back for a long time and finally couldn't hold it back. With his heart beating loudly in his chest, his figure rushed towards Lin Xiaofeng as fast as lightning, trying to use his best strength to kill Lin Xiaofeng. Direct violent language to vent the resentment accumulated in his heart.

However, in this tense moment of life and death, Lin Xiaofeng showed an amazing calmness and wit. There was a sly flash in his eyes, and an astonishing amount of money suddenly appeared in his hand. He placed it gently on Li Dexian's forehead, which was red with anger, without hesitation. This move, like an ice spell, instantly froze Li Dexian, who was originally as fierce as a beast. All his movements were frozen in mid-air at this moment, like a sculpture forgotten by time, silent.

Li Dexian looked extremely embarrassed, and his eyes that should have been flashing with angry flames were now full of astonishment. Slowly, almost with a hint of shame, he took off the banknote attached to his forehead, and a bitter and helpless smile appeared on his face. With mixed feelings in his heart, he reluctantly stuffed the heavy banknote into his wide sleeves and muttered: "You are obviously a rich man with a huge fortune. How could you be in such a trivial situation?" Is the Environmental Protection Team so meticulous about the issue of money?"

Just when the resentment in Li Dexian's heart had not subsided and was about to explode again, a sharp light flashed in Lin Xiaofeng's eyes. With quick eyes and quick hands, he turned his wrist lightly, and before Li Dexian could react, he inserted the penis from the penis that he had just stuffed. The banknote that was put into the cuff was cleverly withdrawn. This move undoubtedly added fuel to the fire. Li Dexian was so angry that his facial features were distorted and his teeth clenched, making a clicking sound, as if he was about to rush forward again the next moment.

However, Lin Xiaofeng showed his unique wisdom and tolerance at this moment. He waved his hand gently and persuaded in a calm but firm tone: "That's it, Lao Li, why are you so angry over such a trivial matter? Calm down. Let's go." This sentence was like a breeze. Although it failed to extinguish the raging fire in Li Dexian's heart immediately, it eased the tense atmosphere to a certain extent and temporarily calmed the conflict that was about to get out of control.

At this moment, Li Dexian, who holds the position of prince, is caught in an unprecedented dilemma. He deeply realizes that if he continues to struggle with the current financial predicament, the part of the family business he is in charge of will probably become increasingly unstable. dry up until it disappears. At this critical moment, Lin Xiaofeng came up with a solution like a beacon in the dark night: "After some in-depth and accurate calculations by Weichen, we can achieve a balance of fiscal revenue and expenditure as long as we appropriately increase the workload of the five workshops."

Lin Xiaofeng further displayed his insightful wisdom and made a detailed analysis of the actual situation: "Your Highness, you may wish to personally examine the actual work of your subordinates. What is the state of their transportation vehicles? Those horses used to drive the wheels and various Are all working tools operating efficiently? How can we schedule daily working hours more scientifically and rationally? In addition, in the transaction with the excrement collection workers, is it possible to increase the purchase price of excrement appropriately to achieve indirect results? The purpose of reducing costs?”

"Your Highness, what we pursue is not just endless hard work, but how to start from the source and implement fundamental innovations. Only by optimizing the overall work process, perhaps with the existing resources in our hands, we can Create value that far exceeds expectations." Lin Xiaofeng's words were deep and powerful, and each sentence was infiltrated with unique insights into state governance. As a wise mentor, he patiently guided Prince Li Dexian and conveyed the message that is related to the rise and fall of the country. , management wisdom for people’s livelihood and well-being.

Lin Xiaofeng's words seemed particularly pragmatic and forward-looking. He knew that any grand blueprint needs to be supported by down-to-earth practice. "Although these ideas are the prototype of the framework, the real test lies in the specific implementation process, and this process must rely on His Highness's wise decision-making and collective efforts." He added sincerely, looking forward to working with the Prince to plan the future and put it into action .

After a series of careful analysis by Lin Xiaofeng, Li Dexian's face gradually relaxed from the initial gloominess, and the frown lines on his brows gradually loosened, revealing ripples of thinking. Obviously, Lin Xiaofeng's suggestion touched on the key to solving the complex situation. Although he had not yet fully grasped the key point to solve the problem, he was already aware that the strategic vision of the counselor in front of him was extraordinary.

Faced with Li Dexian's urgent inquiry about the upcoming gambling showdown with Li Yihao, Lin Xiaofeng did not immediately give specific tit-for-tat tactics, but responded calmly: "For this gambling fight, we need not only a tactical battle. It is also a strategic layout. At present, we only have a short period of a hundred days to change the face of North Langfang. If we want to achieve earth-shaking changes, investment will be an indispensable link. I have a short-term plan to raise funds. Although The results will not be immediate, but once successfully implemented, it will definitely bring about a huge turnaround.”

Lin Xiaofeng then emphasized: "Nowadays, various renovation projects are in full swing, the public health situation has begun to improve, the public security environment in North Langfang is gradually improving, and the crime rate has begun to decline steadily. However, the most important measure is To get rid of the fire under the cauldron, we must fundamentally eliminate the conditions that breed crime and ensure that people can live in a stable and harmonious social atmosphere. Only in this way can all subsequent reforms be successful and bear fruitful fruits." His words were resounding. His eyes were bright, revealing his incomparable determination and belief in success. This determination undoubtedly strengthened Li Dexian's trust in Lin Xiaofeng's ability, and also added more confidence and strength to the two of them working together to break the situation.

Crime, this issue as heavy as a mountain, is like a black crow that can't go away and is entangled, dwelling firmly in Lin Xiaofeng's heart, becoming an inescapable shadow that he cannot escape when he governs the land of North Langfang. The urban landscape of North Langfang is changing with each passing day. The streets are clean and the city appearance is bright and beautiful. On the surface, the crime rate seems to have plummeted with the renovation of the city. However, in Lin Xiaofeng's piercing eyes, those so-called declining data are just a drop in the sky. The illusion created by the petty thieves who restrained their hands a little during the crowing of cocks and dogs has not shaken the essence of the problem at all.

Lin Xiaofeng's heart was filled with undercurrents. How could he be at peace with this appearance? He is experienced in the world and has a deep understanding of the complexity of human nature. He deeply understands that in the intertwined and complex communities of this city, there must be countless miniature versions of the dark empire hidden. They are like moths parasitic on the skin of the bustling city, silently They are devouring the copper coins that every shop owner in the streets and alleys have exchanged for their hard work. While holding high the banner of "protecting" the businesses, they are engaging in despicable deeds of plundering and plundering. No matter where they are, such forces may rely on powerful families with profound and unfathomable backgrounds, or they may cling to unfounded but wild and untamed rivers and lakes. In the hinterland of Gyeonggi, close to the center of power, they may even be those with a long history. , The eagle and dog minions sent by the well-established aristocratic family are behind the scenes. However, due to its unique poverty, North Langfang makes it difficult for even those with strong foundations to make huge profits here; however, it is this poverty that has exacerbated the hardship of people's lives. Businessmen are struggling in the shopping malls. Every penny has to be exploited at all levels, and the people live in suffering, like ants on a hot pot.

In the past, those petty officials from the Military and Horse Department also played the role of bullying merchants. Fortunately, under Lin Xiaofeng's thunderous rectification and iron-fisted management, such bad phenomena have been greatly suppressed. Nowadays, although these people have temporarily disappeared due to the great changes in the city, Lin Xiaofeng realizes very clearly that the current calm is just a moment of tranquility before the storm. One day, they will be like dormant poisonous snakes. Waiting for the opportunity to move, ready to launch a new round of counterattack against his reform achievements.

The most important task currently faced is to completely eradicate the scattered forces that wander on the edge of the law in North Langfang and eliminate their existence from the foundation, so as to create a peaceful and solid paradise for the people who work hard on this soil. In the face of the cruel reality, civilians with a small amount of property are as rare as morning stars. If the security of the property they rely on for their livelihood cannot be maintained, then Lin Xiaofeng's governance will also come to an end. Deep in his heart, he secretly swore that if Beilangfang was really destined to be unable to escape the shadow of the underworld, then the person who controlled the overall situation and stood at the pinnacle of power was none other than Lin Xiaofeng.

Faced with the predicament at hand, Li Dexian's face was full of confusion. The wrinkles on his forehead were like a mess of lines. His two thick eyebrows were tightly gathered together, filled with deep doubts about this issue: "What should I do about this crime?" Solution? How do we identify who is the real culprit?"

When Lin Xiaofeng heard this, a deep and calm smile quietly appeared on his lips. His eyes flashed with the calmness and confidence that only a wise man with insight into the world can have: "This matter is not unsolvable. All we need to do is find a person who understands the inside story deeply." If you talk to someone in detail, all the mysteries will clear away like clouds and the sun will appear, and the truth will naturally emerge."

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In the afternoon, the bluestone pavement in North Langfang is like a picture immersed in lazy sunlight. The light is half dreaming and half awake, flowing slowly and long. It seems that even time is being dragged by the warm sunshine, immersed in a shallow light. Resting. Lin Xiaofeng and Li Dexian, two close friends, slowly strolled side by side, like twin shadows derived from the same soul. In the bustling market, they silently passed through every narrow and winding alley and stepped on every block. A stone slab carrying the vicissitudes of history.

Their figures finally stopped in the jungle of row upon row of shops, and their eyes focused on a grocery store that was neither overly ostentatious nor shabby. This shop is like a clear mountain spring hidden deep in the valley on a hot summer day. The business is as light as water, with almost no bustling customers. Only the silence flows quietly in the air, adding a bit of lonely poetry.

At the door of the store, several shop assistants leaned against the mottled door frame that had been eroded by wind and rain, with indifferent expressions on their faces, each thinking about trivial matters on their mind. Some lowered their heads and whispered, their voices as low and hoarse as the lonely chirping of insects in the night, hidden in the breeze and difficult to catch; some simply sat on their knees on the dust, concentrating on counting the ants busy running around in the dusty world, that kind of The bored attitude seems to be a helpless compromise after the colorful colors of life have faded.

Lin Xiaofeng frowned slightly when he witnessed this scene, and a touch of worry rippled in the depths of his eyes. He couldn't help but sigh deeply about the current business situation in Beilangfang. How could he show wisdom and courage in management if he was so passive, lazy and carelessly passing time? From this point of view, it is not surprising that this land is bound by heavy iron chains. No matter how hard it struggles, it cannot escape the shackles of poverty and can only struggle to survive in the mud of life.

Just as these shop assistants were immersed in their own mundane world, a sense of alienation and familiarity came quietly, as if a sharp light broke through the calmness of a mirror lake. They seemed to be activated in an instant by some untouchable force. The idleness and laziness that once hung on their faces disappeared in an instant, like a tight spring that suddenly straightened, and they returned to their respective positions of responsibility, and began A compact yet organized busy pace. Following closely behind them were Lin Xiaofeng and Li Dexian. They entered the store with a series of fast and powerful steps. What followed behind them was the sound of dense footsteps and the commotion caused by rummaging for goods. .

At this moment, an old shopkeeper with a ravaged face rushed out of the hidden inner room. He raised his eyes full of traces of time and caught the figures of Lin Xiaofeng and Li Dexian. At that moment, the turbid light that had settled in his eyes was like winter snow melting, spring water surging, glowing with amazing vitality, just like a traveler who has been through the flames of war for a long time, and suddenly caught a glimpse of an oasis full of vitality in the desolation. , the overflowing emotion of surprise can be seen on the page without words.

The old shopkeeper rubbed his hands hurriedly, as if trying to convert the tension and expectation in his heart into warm temperature through the mutual rubbing of his palms, while entertaining the two of them with a voice full of enthusiasm: "Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, What an auspicious day it is today, my shabby little shop is lucky enough to welcome such distinguished guests as Mr. De and Mr. Li, it really brings glory to the humble house and brings glory to the lintel!"

I saw him bowing slightly as he spoke. The sincerity and respect were conveyed through every fold and every white hair, as if to prove that even though he was old, he would still devote his whole life to it. I only hope that Lin Xiaofeng and Li Dexian can return home satisfied and happy during this shopping trip.

Deep in the streets and alleys of North Langfang, the names of Lin Xiaofeng and Li Dexian seem to be engraved on every bluestone road, turning into word-of-mouth and becoming the focus of endless discussions among men, women and children. Although the world has various speculations about their true origins, it is enough to deduce that they are definitely not the things in the pool just based on the respectful manner when the government officials meet them in ordinary days. Especially Li Dexian, who was in his prime and so impressive. He led his team through the streets every day. His face, which seemed to be carved by ice and snow, was as serious and cold as an invisible ruler, measuring things accurately. Every insignificant gap in the city, any neglect and laziness that may breed, cannot escape his scrutiny.

However, this little Mr. Li, who has a resolute appearance and sharp words, is actually wrapped in a deeply compassionate heart. When facing the general public, he always showed a gentle and elegant side, and he never acted in an angry way or bullied others. Because of this, Li Dexian has established a unique monument of prestige among the people. He is not only an awe-inspiring existence, but also a figure who has won the hearts of the people and won widespread true respect and love. He has become a vivid image in the city of North Langfang. A vivid and long-lasting style picture.

At the same time, the corners of Lin Xiaofeng's lips traced a smile that seemed to have meaning. The smile spread like ripples, touching the lines carved by the years at the corners of his eyes, making his eyes more slender and deep, with a hint of light that was not easy to be seen. The cunning wisdom of perception. He spoke leisurely, with a calm calmness flowing through his words: "Actually, there is nothing important during my visit today. I just wanted to ask the shopkeeper about the recent profit and loss status of our store. how?"

In that old shop, the face of the shopkeeper is like an ancient bark that has carried countless springs and autumns. The ravines and wrinkles are deeply engraved with the traces of time, but that smile blooms in this old face, just like the autumn wind. An old chrysanthemum stands proudly and swaying in the middle. Although it has experienced wind and rain, it is still tough and warm. Hearing the sound of footsteps, he immediately stopped what he was busy doing, raised his hands respectfully, and made an authentic bow. His voice was full of enthusiasm and gratitude, and he responded: "It's all thanks to distinguished guests like you who often come to our shop. The business is booming like a fire cooking oil, especially when night falls, the bustling scene of surging people is even better than during the day. The lively atmosphere of bustling people and crowded people is really exciting. It’s as unbelievable as a dream.”

As he spoke, the shopkeeper's fingers unconsciously danced to the rhythm of his words, as if he was silently counting the moments of the day. His words were intertwined with dual emotions of joy and worry, as if every sentence was telling the ups and downs of life: "Nowadays, the monthly income can be roughly stable at around thirty taels of silver. If this amount is the same as in the past, Compared to that, it has more than doubled. I think back then, when we were struggling to support ourselves, our monthly income was only a mere ten taels."

Lin Xiaofeng, who was sitting across from him, just nodded slightly after hearing this. His eyes were as deep as a pool, and the light of wisdom flowing in them was like a lamp illuminating a dark place. He then asked a question, his tone was steady but penetrating the essence: "So, in After deducting all daily operating expenses, how much cash can we actually save?"

Faced with this direct question, the shopkeeper's face suddenly became subtle, as if a bitter smile bloomed quietly at the corner of his chapped mouth. There was a bitter secret hidden in that smile: "Well, if you think about it carefully, I'm afraid I can only barely reach the number of twenty taels."

As soon as these words came out, Li Dexian, who always seemed calm and steady on weekdays, was shocked. His wide eyes showed unconcealable shock. His original calm temperament disappeared instantly: "What did you say! If you follow the past fifteen Judging from the income of two taels, isn't there only a measly five taels of silver left now? You know, to maintain the daily needs of such a big family, and to pay the salary expenses of many clerks in the store, after a month of hard work, all The income is only such a meager amount, so what is the point of continuing to operate this large store?"

He moved forward angrily, and every step was like a drum beating in people's hearts. His questioning became more and more intense: "Where did the missing ten taels of silver go?"

Under Li Dexian's aggressive questioning, the shopkeeper's figure visibly trembled, and he stood stiffly on the spot. His face instantly turned pale and pale, his Adam's apple rolled up and down, as if being pinched tightly by an invisible hand, and any words were blocked. Deep in his throat, he couldn't say a word for a long time.

Seeing this, Li Dexian's face suddenly turned cold, and a chilling air came to his face. His voice was as sharp as a sword and extremely majestic: "If you don't tell me the truth quickly, what is the hidden secret in this!" These words were like a thunderbolt. The explosion sounded in the small space, making the air almost solidify.

Facing Li Dexian's sharp eyes like sharpened blades, the shopkeeper's body seemed to be shrouded in an invisible cold air, his back felt chilly, and his whole body trembled involuntarily. He squeezed out a trembling word, as if every The words are full of endless pain and helplessness: "Oh, the taxes collected by the government are as cruel as wolves and tigers. They just took away the whole five taels, and the remaining five taels... alas, It was given to a friend of mine..."

"Gift it to others?" When Li Dexian heard this, his eyebrows suddenly twisted into a knot that could not be untied. His eyes were filled with deep confusion and doubt, as if everything in front of him had subverted his understanding of the world. "What kind of person can actually receive five taels of white money from you every month?"

The shopkeeper's voice was as thin as a gnat, like a frightened mouse timidly whispering in a dark corner: "That... is one of my best friends..." ·”

"Friend?" Li Dexian's mouth curved into a cold and deep arc, but that smile contained heavy questioning and scrutiny. Immediately afterwards, he slapped the old and mottled wooden counter with a sudden force. The force of this palm made the entire counter tremble, and the buzzing sound echoed in the small shop, like To the shopkeeper's silent accusation, "Tell me, which 'friend' is so blessed to be able to enjoy your selfless and generous gift every month?"

As soon as these words fell, it was like a sudden thunder, hitting the shopkeeper's heart. His legs instantly softened, and his knees hit the ground weakly. He knelt down in front of Li Dexian with a plop, his face full of fear and fear. Grievances and grievances were intertwined, and he eagerly defended: "Master Li knows everything. What I said is true. I am indeed helping a friend who is in jail! His family is in decline and his life is miserable, so I try my best to help him every month."

At this moment, Lin Xiaofeng was silently observing, with a calm and insightful gaze shining under his half-closed eyelids. Although he was as calm as water on the surface, his heart was as turbulent as an overwhelming river. He carefully thought about it in his mind: It turned out that under this bustling market, there was still a group of ruffians lurking. They were greedy and greedy, and robbed the people of their blood and sweat. The severity of this social phenomenon was far beyond what he originally imagined.

Yangqu County is famous for its pure and kind folk customs. Its social order is as tight and orderly as a string, and the streets and alleys have a harmonious and peaceful atmosphere. The people live a quiet and stable life here, as if time has passed here. Slowed down. In Lin Xiaofeng's imagination, those shady activities in the marketplace had nowhere to take root in this sunny land. If there is any bold person who tries to extort money in the name of so-called "protection fees" in this sacred and inviolable land, he has undoubtedly jumped into the legal net and is destined to become the prey of the Yamen police. He was quickly rounded up and brought to justice.

(End of this chapter)