524

Tian Peng spoke the truth; the County Magistrate hadn't considered this aspect before. Upon hearing what Tian Peng had said, he fell silent.

He was originally only interested in withholding the peasants' taxes to line his own pockets but had never thought of obtaining money in such a manner.

Seeing that the County Magistrate did not react, Tian Peng sneered inwardly. It seemed the County Magistrate was enticed by his words, so he continued, "Think about it, isn't that the truth?"

"What, should whatever you say be taken as truth? Why should I listen to you?"

The County Magistrate was initially hesitant. He'd been considering the feasibility of this matter, but upon hearing Tian Peng's words, his interest seemed to fade instantly. He couldn't be sure if this man was just bluffing or stalling for time.

"Alas, County Magistrate, how can you think of me that way? Think about it; I feel I haven't done anything else besides evading taxes," Tian Peng said.