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墨書 Inktalez
Chapter 163: Unpredictable Dangers 3
They rushed straight to the Su Hang West Garden Police Station without stopping for a meal. Aeming had inquired through Shen Lingchen, and the situation was indeed true; someone had been beaten, and it was quite severe. If the other party insisted on taking legal action, Sun Qinghua would be in serious trouble.
Shen Lingchen said little as he and Lin Qizhao hurried to the scene. The group of detectives from Anhui Province had spent a lot of time with Sun Qinghua, and there was some camaraderie there. They were already aware of his wife running off with someone else, and if they were to look at it from a man's perspective, they couldn't help but feel a bit of sympathy for Sun Qinghua.
The case and the personal matters were intertwined, and with Xiao Mu's disappearance added into the mix, Aeming was having a tough time. To make matters worse, they had an unexpected passenger in the car—Big Gourd. Hearing about the incident made him furious. He remarked that if that guy had messed with Lezi, he wouldn't just be dead; he'd be living in misery.
"Don't act tough with me; I know what you're up to," Aeming scolded him, not feeling particularly fond of Big Gourd.
Big Gourd, of course, felt no affection for them either. Rolling his eyes, he retorted, "Just wait and see. You think I'm just bragging?"
The two of them were at odds and ignored each other. Big Gourd's "just wait and see" was validated when they arrived at the police station. It was crowded with dozens of people—some squatting, some sitting, some standing—all gathered at the entrance. It was clear that something bad was happening. Aeming had experienced such mobbing at a police station before; he hurriedly got out of the car but was quickly surrounded.
Without saying a word, they closed in on him one by one, hands stuffed in their pockets, bulging with either metal or bricks. With so many people around, it was hard to identify who was who amidst the chaos.
"What’s going on?" Aeming shouted angrily.
"Nothing much; just checking on family matters," one of them replied.
"Consider this a warning: if you insist on sending our boss Lezi inside, you'll have to bear the consequences."
"Did you hear that? Who do you think you are?"
A few men with fierce expressions threatened others, likely trying to intimidate the family members present. This instantly diminished Aeming's sympathy for the Ruhua by half. He shouted, "Get lost!"
Ignoring him, more people gathered around.
In a moment of desperation, he shouted again, "Get lost!"
This time it worked. As soon as the newcomers arrived, the crowd parted with a rush, all calling out for Gourd Brother, clearing a path. Big Gourd led the way, passing by Aeming and telling him, "Not every place is where the police have authority; follow me, I know this area well."
"Hey!" several detectives grumbled as they pulled him along.
A group of people streamed in, entering two police stations. One room contained a few family members, while the other was still in an uproar. It was obvious that the two troublemakers were involved. The police could be heard saying, "...what you did is wrong. Just because you saw them entering a hotel together doesn't mean it's illegal... You can't just beat someone up like that and expect to be justified! What’s this? You think you can threaten the police just because you brought so many people? Don't think I don't know you—Su Rongle, right? How many incidents have happened at your construction site..."
"Stop right there... What does my construction site have to do with this?" Lezi shouted.
"Don't give me that nonsense; it's all just crap talk... If your wife was seen leaving a hotel with another man and you could still argue like that, then I'd really respect you... You hit him; so what? I'm not paying a single cent for medical expenses." Ruhua yelled back.
"Pay for what? I haven't even asked Brother Hua for money after sleeping with his wife!" Lezi retorted.
Ruhua raised his voice even louder and started cursing at Lezi: "Shut your filthy mouth!"
As several people stepped inside, Ruhua' face lit up momentarily but quickly fell into gloom; it seemed he had lost something significant.
Aeming ignored the two squabbling men and called over an officer who had been asking questions. After verifying his identity, the officer took him to see the Director. The Director was also dealing with a tricky situation; he was handling matters related to public order when it turned out that the beaten man, Gexi, was somewhat of a notable figure in Suzhou and Hangzhou—a businessman based in America who had founded a well-known securities research media outlet there. On the other side stood formidable opponents: one was a real estate developer and another had connections to the Anhui Provincial Criminal Police Team. With such powerful figures involved, how could a small police station handle it all?
"Has the on-site evidence been collected?" Aeming asked.
"Yes," the Director replied, releasing the information to Aeming.
A video played, showing a man and a woman exiting the elevator. Across from them was a restaurant, and suddenly, two individuals rushed out. Sun Qinghua swung a bottle, smashing it over the man's head, while Su Rongle delivered a kick to the woman's lower body. Their coordination was seamless. After taking down their targets, they stomped around aggressively. However, the woman protected the injured man, Gexi, as she struggled with Sun Qinghua, causing Aeming to grimace.
Strictly speaking, this situation would depend on the injury assessment; there was a possibility of criminal liability. He asked, "What do the family members of the other party think?"
"A few people from the company have arrived. He's not a local, so we have to follow the law. The man is still in the hospital... even if they wanted to settle privately, those two haven't had enough fun yet," the Director said with frustration. Cases like this were the worst—affairs leading to fights were complicated.
What should they do?
Aeming paced back and forth in distress. The Director reminded him, "Officer, we're colleagues here. It's not that I'm unwilling to help you; we have to be cautious in handling issues in a big city like this. Otherwise, there will be chaos, and people will start pointing fingers at us."
He suggested that the best solution would be for both parties to reach an agreement. After all, accusing someone of having an affair isn't illegal or reasonable.
While they were discussing, they heard a commotion outside. Noticing Big Gourd was absent made Aeming anxious as he rushed outside, fearing that Big Gourd might incite a brawl. As soon as he stepped out, he saw trouble brewing: a car had just arrived, and a crowd was lifting its rear wheels off the ground. Leading them was Big Gourd, who was banging on the car's hood with a brick and shouting:
"Get down! You slept with my brother's wife! Bring your mother here; we won't let this go until it's settled! Get down!"
"Hey, Big Gourd! Stop it!"
"Everyone disperse! Do you want to handle this or not?"
Several police officers shouted, but no one dared to step forward. Aeming grabbed Big Gourd and pulled him aside, yanking at his collar with such force that he nearly lifted him off the ground. He said menacingly, "Kid, your brother is missing, and if you stir up trouble again, do you believe I can take care of you?"
"I... I mean... I'm not angry, okay? What the hell is this? Being a homewrecker is justified, but punishing the homewrecker is a crime?" Big Gourd retorted defiantly.
"Fine then, go ahead and smash this police station and take out these guys," Aeming provoked as he released Big Gourd.
It was clearly an impossible task. Big Gourd waved his hand irritably to disperse the crowd. Only then did a few people from the car dare to get out, including one with a bandaged head and two others, surprisingly accompanied by that beautiful woman—Dai Qiongshi.
Once inside the Police Station, the man named Gexi waved his hand to send away all his acquaintances. It seemed they were about to sit down for a serious discussion. The Director politely poured a cup of water, and Gexi appeared somewhat embarrassed while the woman kept her head down.
"Mr. Ge, regarding this matter... before the appraisal results come out, the police station's handling method is to detain first," the Director said, probing for a response.
"Forget it, I was at fault first, and the injuries aren't severe, so I won't pursue it," Gexi replied sheepishly. His words instantly relieved Aeming; it seemed he had some sense of timing. If he had angered those thugs, he would have no peace. This thought led him to wonder if so many ruffians were once organized by Xiao Mu.
"In that case, let's handle it according to public security management regulations. I think it's better for you two to talk it out..." the Director suggested subtly.
"I want to see those two," Gexi said as he turned around and casually held Dai Qiongshi's hand in a surprisingly tender manner.
That's it; Ruhua' brother's wife was now beyond reach. Aeming thought to himself as he was pulled away by the Director. The two headed together to the Police Station where Lezi and Ruhua were being held. Upon entering, both still wore defiant expressions.
"There's reason in emotions but guilt in law; this party is still reasonable. What do you two mean by this?" the Director asked politely.
"What do you mean? This isn't over," Lezi replied stubbornly.
"Someone's been cheating on me, and you ask what I mean? Tell him I've been worried about not being able to find him, but now it's clear—my life's goal is to make him wish he were dead," Ruhua said, slamming his hand on the table.
Director glanced at Aeming, who disdainfully turned his head, spat contemptuously, and cracked his knuckles, causing Lezi to shrink back in fear. Ruhua, however, was undeterred and boldly asked, "Bald Brother, let me ask you one thing: should we beat that bastard up or not?"
"Definitely. Beat him good," Aeming replied, giving a thumbs-up.
"Exactly! That's what brothers are for," Ruhua said, sharing a moment of camaraderie.
"But if you kill him, that woman won't come back. As your brother, I won't stop you; as a police officer, I can't help you. Follow me; you decide for yourself... Sit tight, and if you show your teeth again, I'll make sure to take care of you," Aeming said amiably while threatening Lezi again, who was too scared to move.
"Brother..." Ruhua finally couldn't face it anymore. He tugged at Aeming and asked, "So what should I do?"
"Tsinghua," Aeming said seriously. "No one can help you with this; you have to make your own decision. Before you do, let me remind you: I think you've already moved on. You didn't really want to jump; all those harsh words weren't what you truly wanted either. But how others see you is different from how I see you... From the moment you dared to chase after a suspect, the brothers in the team all think you're something special—better than any of us in uniform."
Aeming gave three heavy thumbs-ups. Ruhua sighed deeply, looking troubled as he murmured, "What you're saying is just bad luck piling up—running into suspects while trying to have a meal and then running into my wife's lover right after."
"Trust me, a person can't keep having bad luck forever; it's more likely they'll hang themselves from a tree," Aeming chuckled as he patted Sun Qinghua's shoulder. Without further ado, he led Sun Qinghua into the Police Station. The two officers inside stood up in shock upon seeing Sun Qinghua's fierce demeanor, still haunted by fear.
Sun Qinghua sat down with an imposing presence that transformed him from a mere nobody back into the formidable Mr. Sun. He spoke through clenched teeth: "So you're pretending to be a lawyer and taking my wife to my home? I don’t know your name, but what you're doing is downright disgusting."
"It’s me; I’m sorry. My name is Gexi. Since we’re at this point, let’s be honest," Gexi sighed. Aeming noticed that this man in his thirties was indeed quite handsome; even with a bandage wrapped around his head, he exuded an air of privilege.
"Is there really nothing left to say? You know my situation now; I don’t care anymore—I'll beat you until you're crippled or dead. Do you believe I can still sleep soundly tonight?" Ruhua said with a venomous expression and tone.
"I know... so I’m offering you a peaceful solution. How much did Qiong Shi cost you? I'll pay you back in full, as long as you sign the divorce agreement... I also know your brother is formidable, and you’re willing to go all out for yourself; I can do the same for this woman. If you're still not satisfied, then come at me..." Gexi pulled out the agreement, which was pinned with a check. He looked carefully at Ruhua and said, "Four million, she’s returned it to you, plus some extra."
Bang... Sun Qinghua slammed his hand on the table in anger.
Dai Qiongshi pulled Gexi behind him, looking at Sun Qinghua. The couple faced each other again, no longer filled with tenderness; instead, there was a hatred deeper than any wound.
"Tsinghua, if you have something to say, come at me. I deceived you... I believe you know that there’s no love between us; it’s just a naked transaction. You promised me that when I left, you would give me my freedom." Dai Qiongshi’s face turned pale as she spoke through clenched teeth.
No wonder Ruhua couldn’t forget her; that nose and those brows were more stunning than any star. Aeming sighed inwardly, fearing that their marriage was merely a transaction from the start.
Sun Qinghua sat back in despair. His voice was low and thunderous as he said, "... Yes, I know I’m nothing in your eyes, but even a clay figure has some earthiness; even a cornered beast will bite. Don’t you think you’ve gone too far? Come on, let him kneel before me and beg for mercy; maybe I’ll spare your life."
Thud... Dai Qiongshi knelt heavily by the table.
This kneel stunned Ruhua, leaving her speechless.
There was no hint of remorse on Dai Qiongshi’s face as she spoke with determination: "We never had any feelings for each other; what’s there to be excessive about... Whatever you want to do, come at me; whatever I owe you, take it now. If you let me go, I’ll die outside but will still remember your kindness... Is that okay?"
With resolve, tears streamed down her cheeks. Perhaps she was deeply hurt or felt immense guilt; her sorrowful face made Sun Qinghua sigh softly, and all his anger dissipated into thin air.
Gexi supported Dai Qiongshi, who finally couldn’t hold back anymore. She leaned on his shoulder and cried bitterly.
This pair seemed more fitting together than the one with the grinning Sun Qinghua. It goes without saying where sympathy should lie. Slowly, Sun Qinghua picked up the agreement and extended his hand: "Bring me a pen."
Nervously, Gexi quickly handed over the pen. Sun Qinghua swiftly signed the agreement, then took the check, tore it into shreds, and threw it at Gexi's face, spitting at him as he said, "Get lost. Even if I'm rich now, I won't stoop so low as to take this kind of money... Now your wife has been with me; we're even."
"Thank you." Gexi didn't even have time to wipe the spit off his face before he hurriedly left with Dai Qiongshi. Lezi, who had been hiding outside the door, quietly stepped in and said with concern, " Brother Hua, are you okay? You don't need to take the money."
"Shut your filthy mouth." Ruhua roared in anger, "Do you think I'm so poor that I'd sell my wife? Can I even take that money?"
After shouting, he couldn't hold back any longer. He opened his mouth and began to cry loudly, pounding his chest and hitting his head against the table. His cries were so heart-wrenching that they scared the police officers away.
Only Aeming stayed by his side silently, occasionally patting his shoulder but offering no words of comfort.
…………………………
…………………………
When Lin Qizhao and his team arrived at Maple Town, Fengyuan Village, it was already eight in the evening. The on-site investigation was nearing its end. Upon arrival, fully equipped officers from the Special Training Division began collecting evidence and extracting data with forensic personnel.
"The conditions aren't ideal," Shen Lingchen softly suggested.
"Master, take a look..." Lin Qizhao led Shen Lingchen out of the courtyard, shining his phone light as they walked a short distance through the village. On the roadside were threads and scraps of cloth; in the sewer was a foul smell. Every household had their doors shut tight; half of the village had turned off their lights. Shen Lingchen quickly grasped the issue and said, "I understand now; you've done well to get this far in the investigation."
This was a village known for smuggling and counterfeiting—there were plenty along the coast. The typical signs included severely damaged environments and residents harboring hostility towards the police. Trying to investigate here was futile; if you went in alone, it would be a miracle if you weren't beaten to a point where you couldn't take care of yourself.
"I know you understand, but those above probably won't," Lin Qizhao continued. "These villages lack resources and can only rely on smuggling and counterfeiting. Many places along the way survive by trafficking foreign waste. The Business and Quality Inspection departments often collaborate with our Public Security Department to crack down on such activities; this hostility has existed for a long time... Our investigation can't even enter the village; these people are more sensitive than the suspects."
"So, you devised a series of plans to lure them in and capture them... hoping to stir the grass and make the snakes reveal themselves?" Shen Lingchen asked. Theoretically, this should be a reasonable plan; it was certainly better than having no evidence at all. If they couldn't find anything, they would likely have to create something.
"Yes, but I can't figure out where the flaw is. The vehicles that left here are still accounted for. Xu Tonglei's truck was clearly loaded; how could it just disappear? Moreover, what information did they receive that made them suddenly change their plans? Unloading an entire truckload of goods isn't an easy task," Lin Qizhao replied.
"Have the two missing Cargo Vans been found?" Shen Lingchen inquired.
"Impossible to find. This area is full of Cargo Vans, and there are at least a dozen garbage mountains," Lin Qizhao said.
This highlighted the difference between theory and practice. Not only was the environment destroyed, but order was also disrupted. One could imagine that criminals were using this chaos as cover to act with impunity. Shen Lingchen sighed several times, feeling speechless.
A person's power is always limited; even if you are a police officer, you cannot change much.
"I'm sorry, Master. I'm going to embarrass myself this time. But please understand, my personal honor or disgrace doesn't matter to me. What I care about is what I can do for the order that has been destroyed," Lin Qizhao said, his eyes particularly bright in the darkness.
"Heh heh, I used to think like that too. Always wanting to uphold justice and change the world... But then I kept hitting walls. The more thieves I caught, the more there seemed to be. Heh heh, as cities expand, many people are forgotten; many commit crimes out of desperation for bread. Once they taste the sweetness of crime, they will upgrade without hesitation and become thorough criminals... Sometimes I doubt my beliefs because they seem so fragile in the face of rampant materialism," Shen Lingchen said with a self-deprecating smile.
"But there should still be those who hold firm; otherwise, what do we need police for?" Lin Qizhao replied.
"Exactly. That's why I just made a decision," Shen Lingchen said.
"You’re not thinking of joining me, are you? I’m about to face collective blame and scrutiny from various departments," Lin Qizhao joked.
"You guessed right. With one more person bearing the burden, there's less pressure on each of us. Besides, I have my own selfish reasons; Xiao Mu probably got caught up in this mess. I can feel guilty towards anyone else, but not towards him. We owe him too much," Shen Lingchen stated.
"Starting the investigation now, we will have news soon... Master, thank you. I should have discussed the plan with you earlier," Lin Qizhao said.
"Isn't this just the beginning? We have plenty of time and opportunities," Shen Lingchen replied with a smile.
The two had been getting along well for some time now, and it was hard to pinpoint when Shen Lingchen, who used to be so aggressive, had become more humble and accommodating.
Before long, the phone rang, and they returned to the garment workshop. The case situation turned out to be unexpectedly complicated; they had not found any fiber paper samples to replace banknote paper or any ink that could be used for printing money. However, they did discover several oil stains, with technical parameters flashing between 205 and 236, and a viscosity index of 108 to 122. This data made Lin Qizhao's eyes widen in surprise.
"What does this mean?" Shen Lingchen asked.
"It’s close to the specifications for ink used in Heidelberg Printing Presses," Lin Qizhao explained.
"So you mean... there’s a possibility they are smuggling Printing Presses?" Shen Lingchen was taken aback; this was far more advanced than just setting up a continuous inkjet printer for counterfeiting money.
"These are high-end goods. It’s possible these audacious individuals might even bring back Gravure Printing Presses... No wonder I couldn’t find any leads on the fiber paper. I thought this place was unlikely to be a hideout; my judgment was off. Long-distance shipping of printing equipment requires maintenance, and they might have already printed quite a lot," Lin Qizhao said regretfully, realizing he might have missed an opportunity that he would regret for years.
Shen Lingchen's expression grew tense as well. He understood what kind of people would dare to smuggle such machinery. If Xiao Mu ran into this situation, he could only imagine what the outcome might be...
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