Chapter 37: Is There Still Justice? Is There Still Law?

As Chen Xian conversed with Old Man Zhang, several other elderly people from the vicinity gathered around.

"My friend, you are in excellent health. Even in the dead of winter, dressed like this, you’re still out exercising," said an old man bundled in a thick coat, his face etched with age.

"Indeed," another added, his eyes full of envy. "My old bones are a few years younger than yours, but I couldn't bear to dress like that in this weather."

"Sigh!" Zhang replied. "I spent my youth just chasing money, never sparing a thought for my health. Now, it's too late for regrets. I truly envy you for having such a constitution. You must exercise quite often, right? I live nearby and visit this park frequently, yet I’ve never seen you before."

Clearly, they assumed Zhang was a local regular. They were bewildered by his ability to withstand the cold, his light, plain clothing, and the hoe he carried—as if he had just been tilling the fields. Despite their confusion, they held their tongues. After living for decades, they understood the social boundaries of what to ask and what to leave alone.

"Since you've come to our parts, you must sample our local delicacies and take in the sights," one suggested. "You know, the scenery here in Suzhou is the most comprehensive in all of the Great Xuan."

Upon learning that Zhang was not a local, they enthusiastically began recommending spots. "It’s a pity you arrived at the wrong time," another remarked with a sigh. "The scenery is buried under heavy snow right now. If you had come in summer or autumn, you would have seen the true, vibrant beauty of Suzhou."

"I didn't come here entirely for tourism," Zhang said, his gaze deepening. "I’m here because I ran into some trouble recently."

Chen Xian, listening intently, perked up. Anything capable of troubling a martial artist of at least the Transformation Stage piqued his curiosity.

"Oh?" one of the elders asked. "If it’s not too private, perhaps you could share it with us. We’ve lived for more than half a century; maybe we can offer some advice."

The others nodded in agreement. Since Zhang had brought it up himself, he clearly didn't mind sharing.

"Since everyone is curious, I’ll tell you," Zhang began. "I’m just an honest farmer. I spend my days tilling the soil and planting crops. I don’t have anything of value at home, save for an ancient book handed down by my ancestors. I treasured it dearly and kept it well-hidden; no one had seen it for years. To my surprise, half a year ago, someone broke into my home and stole it. While it may not be worth much money, it was a family heirloom. To have it snatched away in silence is a disgrace to my ancestors, and it angers me."

"The worst part is, I know exactly who the thief is. I waited for six months, hoping they would show some remorse and offer an apology so we could put the matter to rest. But after half a year, they haven't made the slightest gesture." His expression turned icy. "Don't you think that’s bullying? Do they think because I’m just an old farmer, I can’t do anything about it?"

"Hmph! Such a scoundrel must be caught and brought to justice!" the elders exclaimed, filled with righteous indignation.

"My friend, we will help you," one promised. "My son works in the police force. Give me the details, and I’ll pass them on to him. We will surely see the thief punished."

"Thank you for your kindness, but I can handle this myself," Zhang said, shaking his head.

"Don't be so quick to refuse," the man insisted, patting his chest. "I know you're worried we can't help, but catching a thief is no trouble at all, and it's my son's duty. You can rest easy; my son will surely resolve this for you."

"I really can handle it," Zhang replied. "If any complications arise, I’ll be sure to ask for your help. I just wanted to vent to you all. Is there no rule of law left? Is there no justice? Isn't that thief just too arrogant?"

As Zhang spoke, his eyes flashed, and the other old men grew even more incensed, eager to see the thief brought to justice immediately.

"Alright, everyone, calm down. I will handle this," Zhang said with a smile.

"Very well, but you must make that thief pay the price," they agreed. "If you need anything, come find us. We all live in that building ahead. Just ask around the complex, and you'll find us."

"Thank you for your kindness. I have a plan, and I believe I can resolve it," Zhang concluded.

Chen Xian stood by, listening in silence. The others were unaware that the man before them was a martial artist, and they had no idea that the "trouble" he spoke of would likely involve other martial artists.