Not only was he housed in the best single cell with complete bedding, but he was also served a top-tier banquet for the wedding. However, Ruan Shi Xin couldn’t eat, knowing his daughter was sacrificing herself for his freedom. He eagerly watched outside, believing she was smart enough to avoid marrying that old lecher.
Suddenly, he heard her voice: “Father, your daughter has come to see you!”
Ruan Shi Xin rushed to the door, and as the jailer opened it, he saw his daughter in a bright red wedding dress. Tears filled his eyes; he would never let her jump into that fire pit!
Ruan Ning spoke first: “Father, how are your injuries? Are you still in pain?”
“Not painful at all,” he replied, tears in his eyes. Though he had endured severe beatings and torture, he cared only for his daughter’s peace of mind.
In the corner, Ji Mingshao watched her intently, oblivious to the surrounding noise and chaos, captivated by the sight of her.
Ruan Shi Xin couldn’t bear to let his daughter fight.
He strode to Ruan Ning’s front, blocking the unconscious County Magistrate Li. He shouted, “Watch carefully! This Li is still alive in my hands. If you don’t want him to die, make way immediately, or I’ll kill him right now!”
The bailiffs were stunned. Chasing the fugitive was important, but protecting County Magistrate Li’s life was crucial, as their salaries depended on him. Some hesitated to make way, but no one wanted to lead in allowing the criminal to escape.
Zhang Sansheng, who had the best relationship with Ruan Shixin, stepped back, muttering: “What could be more important than the magistrate’s life? Those blocking now are clearly trying to get him killed!”
Once he took the lead, others quickly moved aside. Ruan Shixin was about to leave with County Magistrate Li when Ruan Ning said: “Wait, Father!”
She swept her soft sword, cutting another line on the magistrate’s neck, blood flowing. She waved her sword tip and smiled at the bailiffs: “Watch carefully. Your magistrate is still alive. If you want to save him, you’ll have to listen to me now.”
Zhang Sansheng led the call: “Whatever you want us to do, we’ll do it, but we must save the magistrate’s life.”
“Put down all your weapons,” Ruan Ning smiled, “Quickly!”
