Silence spread through the room, and Magistrate Zhu's expression grew even more somber than before. His official demeanor cast a shadow, making it difficult to breathe.
In this eerie and dangerous atmosphere, Magistrate Wei subtly glanced at Zhan Feiyu, who sat opposite him. The young girl, however, seemed completely unfazed, sitting prettily on her chair, holding a teacup in one hand, appearing as relaxed as if she were enjoying tea in her own backyard.
Magistrate Wei withdrew his gaze and looked again at Magistrate Zhu, who sat in the main seat, radiating authority without anger. If the business of the crispy cakes could be linked to the military, it wouldn't necessarily bring in a fortune daily, but it would certainly be profitable.
However, if the cakes were sold to the military at cost price, then to make money, they would have to rely on these merchants, selling the cakes to them, and their caravans would then transport them to various prefectures for sale.
Even with scarcity driving up value, the cakes were crispy and comparable to the finest pastries in a confectionery shop. It was unlikely to yield much profit in a short period, as it was merely about texture and novelty.
"Miss Zhan," Magistrate Zhu spoke again, his face menacingly dark, his sharp gaze fixed on Zhan Feiyu. "Do you think that because Huang Baocai's case has been reported to the Provincial Surveillance Department, you are now free and clear?"
Ultimately, Magistrate Zhu had ordered Constable Cheng to investigate Huang Baocai's case because he wanted to establish a connection with Zhan Feiyu's elders. But if this crispy cake business offered no profit, why would Magistrate Zhu have defied Constable Cheng to exonerate Zhan Feiyu?
Upon hearing this, Zhan Feiyu actually smiled. "Your Excellency, are you threatening me?"
Magistrate Zhu picked up his teacup, not answering directly, his attitude distant and cold. "That all depends on what you do, Miss."