At this moment, Old Brown showed not the slightest hint of a smile, and spoke heavily: “The Boss, you asked me to check on Second Brother Clark, to find out why he didn’t come back yesterday, so I sent someone to investigate.”

“Last night it snowed and rained all night, leaving no traces at all, so I had people search all the nearby gambling dens, inns, and pleasure boats, but found nothing.”

“When we were at our wits’ end, suddenly someone was casting a fishing net. They didn’t catch any fish, but ended up netting a person. The man was so frightened he immediately ran away and didn’t dare report it to the authorities.”

“When I heard the news, I immediately organized a search, and only then did we find the bodies of Second Brother Clark and The Six Martin Brothers.”

“I checked them—both were killed by spear or sword, not by drowning.”

“Heaven have mercy, if not for the fishing net, once the weather warmed up, the bodies would have been eaten by fish, and we’d never have found them.”

Upon hearing this, Eldest Bolton was silent for a long time before nodding heavily: “Who did it?”

Old Brown spoke in a low voice: “The Boss, things are different now than before. Even if there’s a turf war, it shouldn’t escalate to murder.”

“I’ve asked the Raft Gang and the Zengcai Society—no one has had any conflict with us.”

Eldest Bolton was dazed for a long while, then slowly said, “First, bring our two brothers back for burial. I’ll dig three feet into the ground if I have to, but I will avenge them.”

At this, he frowned again and asked, “Is the county exam being held?”

“Yes, it’s almost finished.”

“Then let’s go back and deal with that brat first.” Eldest Bolton said coldly, “No matter what, Second Brother Bolton died because of that brat’s business. We’ll take him as interest first!”

“Yes!” This was clearly venting their anger, but no one objected. A few of them loaded the bodies onto an ox cart, and together they headed toward the county town.

County Office · Examination Hall

“Time’s up! Scholars, leave the exam hall, no noise allowed.” The exam official shouted loudly, “Those who haven’t finished writing may light one candle.”

Edward Jr. Sutton was reserved, with a proud spirit. Even though he was skilled in adapting, when he wrote, his pride would occasionally show.

The two essays on the classics were the simplest entry-level subjects. For Edward Jr. Sutton, who had already reached level 5, they weren’t difficult.

The five-character test poem, thanks to skill learning, could also be composed at a moderate level. Not only was it enough for the county exam, it would probably suffice for the prefectural exam as well.

Even with plenty of time, by the third review of his answers, Edward Jr. Sutton found that time was up.

The bailiffs collected the papers. Edward Jr. Sutton handed his in, finally letting out a real sigh of relief. The exit inspection was not strict; he packed up his writing tools and drafts into his basket, and as he left the corridor, a hand landed directly on his shoulder.

“Ziji, do you think you did well this time?” The owner of the hand was George Bolton, who asked in a low voice.

Chapter 10: Avoidance

“I certainly hope to pass. What about you?”

Edward Jr. Sutton saw that the other scholars around were also gathered in small groups, talking quietly. The bailiffs watched but didn’t interfere, so he replied softly as well.

This time, George Bolton didn’t look glum, but shook his head: “I’m afraid I won’t make it this time. But I already told my parents that I’ll definitely pass the county exam next time. They don’t blame me.”

No wonder he seemed so relaxed. As they spoke, they had already reached the outside of the county office. At this moment, Richard Bennett finished talking with a few others and walked over.

Upon meeting, naturally the first question was about the exam. Edward Jr. Sutton was even more candid with Richard Bennett: “I thought the questions weren’t hard. I’m sure Brother Bennett will definitely pass with high marks.”

He meant it. His own learning relied on a golden finger and hard work, but Richard Bennett truly had talent—often after reading a book a few times, he could memorize most of it. Not to mention his family was well-off, so he could often borrow notes and books from successful candidates. In terms of resources, he was far better off than poor scholars.

This was only the county exam—if he didn’t pass, that would be strange.

“Thanks to your good wishes. Come on, let’s go back to the inn and compare our drafts in detail—I’ll treat you.” Richard Bennett was very happy, waving his hand as he spoke.

When Edward Jr. Sutton returned to the inn, it was already dusk. Among the scholars there, some were beaming with joy—clearly they had done well; some were deep in thought, appearing dignified and composed; some looked gloomy—clearly things hadn’t gone well.

Edward Jr. Sutton wasn’t nervous, nor did he go to his room. He followed Richard Bennett upstairs, and sure enough, there was a private booth separated by a screen still available. Richard Bennett said, “Three meat dishes, two vegetables, one soup, and let’s have some Golden Elixir wine!”

Golden Elixir wine was brewed from spring water and wasn’t cheap. The waiter replied, “We have it. How much would you like?”

“A pound!” For three people, that wasn’t much. George Bolton chimed in, and the waiter left. Richard Bennett immediately took out his draft: “Come on, let’s swap and take a look.”

“Let’s start with the first paper—the winner drinks a cup!” George Bolton said mischievously. He knew he’d lose anyway, so he wanted to see the two top students drink as a penalty.

“Deal!”

The first paper was on the classics and ink commentary, so it was quick to review. The waiter soon brought the food and wine. George Bolton hurriedly poured a cup, took a sip first, and said, “This really is Golden Elixir wine—no water added. This inn is the real deal!”

As they spoke, they finished reviewing the first paper. Edward Jr. Sutton laughed, “All correct, but you can’t just take a sip—you have to finish the whole cup. You got the first paper all right too.”

“Damn, I finally have my day.” George Bolton burst out laughing, and they all drank.

“All right, let’s look at the second paper!” Richard Bennett said. The second paper was on the Sacred Edict and moral instruction, so he read it aloud, word for word without error.