Chapter 413
When Madam Yuan's people arrived, Cao Momo had already entered the Jin family's gate. As for the runner sent to the prefectural office, he didn't see Prefect Yuan either; Prefect Yuan had left the office with his attendants a quarter of an hour ago.
The innkeeper of the East Rising Inn was so shocked upon seeing the newcomers that he nearly popped his eyeballs out. "Your... Your Excellency... this humble one pays his respects..."
"There's no need for formalities, Innkeeper," Prefect Yuan stopped the innkeeper's bow. He glanced towards the backyard and asked, "Where is the room of Miss Zhan, who came from Suzhou Prefecture? Please lead the way, Innkeeper."
Another person looking for that young girl? The innkeeper was stunned for a moment. Snapping back to reality, he quickly said, "Your Excellency, this way please."
A moment later, He Nuan brought the tea. Seeing Zhan Feiyu nod, she then retreated to the corridor outside the room to stand guard.
Prefect Yuan's two attendants saw He Nuan, but there were no pleasantries exchanged. Each stayed at their post outside the door.
Prefect Yuan's gaze swept across the desk by the bed. Half of it was piled with books, and the room was filled with the scent of ink. It was understandable that such diligence would lead to her achieving the "Little Three Yuan" title.
"Prefect Zhang and I were old acquaintances," Prefect Yuan suddenly mentioned the deceased Prefect Zhang, a complex expression appearing on his gaunt face. "Three years ago, I sought help from Prefect Zhang. After being refused, I also considered seeing Lord Yao, but ultimately, I failed the people of Minhe Prefecture."
Zhan Feiyu listened, utterly bewildered. Lord Yao was the Provincial Administration Commissioner of Longyou Circuit. If Prefect Yuan truly encountered a thorny issue, Lord Yao would not have ignored it. Therefore, it could only mean that Prefect Yuan had given up halfway.
Putting down his teacup, Prefect Yuan looked earnestly at the young girl sitting before him. Who would have thought that he, a dignified official of the court, the Prefect of Minhe Prefecture, would one day seek help from a young girl?
"How does Miss Zhan view Minhe Prefecture compared to Suzhou Prefecture?" Prefect Yuan spoke again, changing the topic.
Although full of doubts, Zhan Feiyu remained composed.