Plotting with You: The Forensic Scientist in Ancient Times!-Chapter 83 - 82: Divergent Stances

Zhu Yu’s conjecture, though well-founded, also seems quite bold, casting a conspiratorial shade over what was initially a deliberate murder.

Cao Chenfeng lay on the ground, unable to hold back, suddenly burst into loud cries, whether from relief that someone finally believed him or from fear.

Duke Yan looked at Zhu Yu with a gaze full of suspicion.

From his standpoint, naturally, he hoped Cao Tianbao would not be entangled in such a troubling matter, as any damage to his reputation outside would have considerable impact on the entire Duke Yan faction.

If someone could absolve Cao Chenfeng, that would be the best outcome.

Although a disgraceful reputation was inevitable, at least it was better than having someone at home involved in adultery and murder.

However, the one standing up to prove Cao Chenfeng’s innocence was someone associated with Lu Qing.

Duke Yan squinted his eyes, trying to discern some clue from Lu Qing and Zhu Yu’s faces that might reveal what the two were planning.

Unfortunately, Lu Qing remained calm and indifferent, as if merely enjoying the spectacle.

Yet his Chief Historian, who seemed frail-looking, also possessed a deep mind; so young and composed in such a scene, without the least bit of panic, provoked Duke Yan’s suspicions further.

After brief contemplation, Duke Yan cleared his throat, prompting Cao Tianbao to instinctively look over.

"I’ve known General Cao for over twenty years, haven’t I?" Duke Yan sighed softly, "Recalling the days of quelling the rebellion, how decisive and impartial the Great General was.

Precisely because of this, he gained great military fame, earning trust and credibility.

For General Cao, holding high office, maintaining an upright family tradition is undoubtedly crucial; he cannot afford the reputation of being indecisive and protective over his kin due to a few careless words from an unknown brat.

If people outside believe General Cao himself disregards the law, how can the general establish authority in the military and inspire confidence in the future?"

His words carried a heartfelt tone, vastly different from his previously arrogant demeanor in front of Lu Qing, resembling more of a genuine conversation between old friends.

Zhu Yu didn’t expect Duke Yan to speak in such a manner, curiously glancing over at him a couple of times, only to be met with Duke Yan’s cold stare.

Cao Tianbao initially showed some relief after Zhu Yu provided a reasonable, evidence-based account. However, Duke Yan’s admonishment left him hesitant once more.

Both he and Duke Yan shared the same concern—Zhu Yu’s background.

Why would someone under Lu Qing wish to help clear Cao Chenfeng’s name?

What if they were merely trying to provoke an overprotective response from him to exploit later?

Cao Tianbao could almost foresee that today’s matter might be presented to Emperor Jin in the morning court tomorrow, with officials eagerly accusing him.

If handled well, Emperor Jin might overlook the matter considering their long-standing acquaintance.

If mishandled... A general holding military power harboring family scandal and lawlessness—the accusation is too grave, beyond his capacity to bear.

However... seeing Zhu Yu’s assured expression along with his nearly unrecognizable nephew, Cao Chenfeng, after being beaten, Cao Tianbao hesitated to sever his nephew’s lone chance when there’s still hope.

Zhu Yu noticed Cao Tianbao did not speak immediately after Duke Yan’s reminder and could sense his internal conflict. So, he continued, "Both the body and the murder weapon have been examined, but relying solely on these to determine if Cao Chenfeng is indeed the culprit seems too reckless.

May I have permission to visit the embroidery tower where Miss Zhuang was killed?"

"Of course!" the Capital Governor readily agreed, with a particularly straightforward attitude.

He realized that uncovering the true murderer of Miss Zhuang is most beneficial for him, breaking the perception that Jingzhao Mansion shelters criminals; it doesn’t really matter whether the murderer is Cao Chenfeng or someone else.

This matter must be clarified today; otherwise, he may find it difficult to justify.

At present, the one eager to uncover the truth is the Chief Historian beside Prince Xiaoyao; a mere Chief Historian having such a stance naturally indicates Prince Xiaoyao’s backing.

In ordinary circumstances, the Capital Governor would never risk offending Duke Yan to align with Lu Qing.

But this time is different.

Duke Yan clearly prefers covering up the truth, hoping for Cao Tianbao to uphold justice by relinquishing his nephew, Cao Chenfeng, to preserve the general’s reputation.

Yet speaking of this easily, Cao Tianbao’s prior care for his nephew is no secret in the Capital. If he blindly punishes Cao Chenfeng, perhaps he wouldn’t dare resent Duke Yan, but what about others?

Thus, it’s better to gamble—if Cao Chenfeng is proven guilty, the handling of justice could be flawless.

If another is the true culprit and Cao Chenfeng is vindicated, he could appease both public duty and personal relations with General Cao.

Why not take the chance!

The embroidery tower where Zhuang Lanlan was killed was sealed by Jingzhao Mansion after the incident, and even Zhuang Zhi lacked permission to approach. Therefore, once the Capital Governor agrees, Zhuang Zhi’s opinions become irrelevant.

Even though he displayed unwillingness, muttering about how everything seemed like covering up for Cao Chenfeng, he then lamented his daughter’s misfortune.

Yet none of this deterred the group from proceeding to the embroidery tower.

Fortunately, the corpse room wasn’t far from the riverside, and shortly after the group arrived, Jingzhao Mansion’s governmental officials hurried ahead and arranged for two boats.

Zhu Yu boarded one alongside Lu Qing, followed closely by Cao Tianbao and the Capital Governor, with Cao Chenfeng, now manacled, also brought on board.

Duke Yan, Lu Zhang, and others were assigned to the other boat.

"Wait a moment!" Once aboard, Zhu Yu turned to look behind him, signaling the officials, "Bring the boatman who identified Cao Chenfeng earlier along with us."

The officials quickly brought the trembling boatman aboard, untied the ropes, and began rowing towards the embroidery tower.

This time of the month, the daytime was slightly warm; the gentle breeze over the river made the boat ride rather pleasant.

Seemingly only Zhu Yu and Lu Qing stood calmly at the bow, enjoying the breeze, while others, preoccupied with their thoughts, displayed less than pleasant expressions.

After a while, Zhu Yu could see a wooden tower standing alone on the opposite riverbank from a distance. The stark absence of any other riverside structures rendered the tower conspicuous—it should be Zhuang Zhi’s tower.

Built on the northern bank of the river, the wooden tower faced the sunlit river. The clear weather made the water on Jiangyang’s side glisten like a mirror, blindingly bright.

Observing this, Zhu Yu felt he had a strong sense of assurance.