Chapter 7: The Truth Emerges

Determined to uncover the strange occurrences in the village, Lin Yue decided to investigate on her own. Using modern reasoning and deduction, she began collecting clues. After careful observation and analysis, she noticed that the villagers who had reported stolen belongings were all people who had interacted closely with Su Yichen when he distributed supplies.

A bold suspicion formed in Lin Yue’s mind—Su Yichen might be using the pretense of helping the village to secretly search for something. To confirm her theory, she resolved to sneak into his residence.

On a moonless, windy night, Lin Yue avoided prying eyes and stealthily made her way to Su Yichen’s living quarters. Carefully, she searched the room for evidence. Finally, in a hidden chest, she discovered some peculiar drawings and an old journal.

The drawings depicted complex symbols and patterns, resembling an ancient map. But it was the contents of the journal that shocked her the most. Su Yichen was not just a wealthy merchant—he was a treasure hunter. He had heard rumors of a great hidden treasure in the village and had come under the guise of offering aid, using the opportunity to search for its whereabouts. The stolen belongings were merely a diversion to confuse the villagers and shift suspicion away from him.

Holding the evidence, Lin Yue prepared to confront Su Yichen. However, as soon as she stepped out of the room, she found herself surrounded by his men.

From the shadows, Su Yichen emerged, a faint smile on his face. “Miss Lin, I underestimated you. I didn’t expect you to uncover my secret so quickly. But now that you know… I’m afraid I can’t let you leave so easily.”