“Everyone, move faster and try to finish the entire county before the sun goes down,” Liao Tingyu encouraged.

Zhuang Hou and others nodded, quickly dividing according to their tasks.

Zhao Han obediently took the lime and sprinkled it in the corner.

“What’s the use of this thing?” Zhao Han asked, observing Liao Tingyu who was rummaging around.

“You won’t understand even if I tell you. Just do as you are told. And all of you, please work faster, avoid touching other things, and thoroughly disinfect all furniture and belongings.”

Liao Tingyu said, not knowing how to explain it, he turned his head and spoke to the yamens.

Members of this family were assisting in carrying things and later set the entire house on cloud of smoke with herbs.

.

After much effort, everyone finally managed to settle the entire county before the sun set.

Exhausted, Liao Tingyu returned to the county government office and noticed several people who had come back early. He could have returned earlier, but he double-checked for any oversights.

Upon seeing Liao Tingyu, Huang Zilan quickly approached to make a report.

“You’re back. When we went to help these people disinfect, several individuals opposed our actions, so I ordered their arrest.”

Liao Tingyu raised his eyebrows and commented, “I’m doing good things, and after spending so much money, there are still people opposing it.”

Zhao Han was indignant, saying, “This is too heartless. These people should be made to do hard work and reflect on their actions.”

“How did they resist you?”

“Your Excellency, we tried to persuade them nicely at first, explaining that these measures were for the sake of their lives. However, they resisted, blocking us with their hands. When we tried to enter forcibly, they prevented us from moving things. Master, if we don’t move the items, how can we disinfect them one by one? If we miss any place, wouldn’t all our efforts be in vain?” Yue Peng explained, gesturing towards the tied-up individuals outside.

“Which area are you responsible for?” Liao Tingyu asked.

“I’m in charge of the west side of the city. These nine people are the ones who opposed my actions. I arrested their whole family. If people like this are not taught a lesson, I’m afraid they will never learn.” Yue Peng pointed towards the group.

Liao Tingyu looked at them and smiled, saying, “It seems you’ve encountered a challenging situation. Most of the troublemakers seem to be from your side.”

“I’ve had worse challenges in the past. I’m not afraid of a few troublemakers. I used to deal with more prickly situations than them,” Yue Peng proudly recalled his past accomplishments.

“Whose side are these people from?”

“They are from my side, and the others are from the north of the city,” Huang Zilan clarified.

“By the way, Tingyu, did you encounter any disobedient individuals over there?” Huang Zilan wondered if Liao Tingyu faced any resistance, considering he returned without any trouble.

Liao Tingyu pursed his lips, “Of course there were. I sent them straight to prison, and they’ll be dealt with after the doctors cure the patients. We’ll have a proper talk by then. For now, let’s keep them in check. Also, remember to record their food expenses clearly. They’ll have to repay that.”

“Don’t worry, sir. Additionally, there’s the quilt usage fee. We need to hire someone for washing after using the quilts. All of this cost money,” the clerk added.

“If you hadn’t mentioned it, I might have forgotten. Write it down for them. This is the price for disobedience. Also, note down the accommodation fee. My cell blocks the cold wind and harsh sun, making it warm in winter and cool in summer. Now, where can they find such a comfortable place!” Liao Tingyu stated firmly.

“Okay, now let’s hear the reports on the work. Have you checked the well water? Is it contaminated?” Liao Tingyu, watching the detained individuals being led away, turned around and inquired about the findings.

“No, we’ve examined all the wells, and the doctors have confirmed it. They even used silver needles, and there’s no sign of contamination.”

“Military doctor, how is the progress on your side?”

“Your Excellency, we are currently using medicated bathing. The patients are directly taking the medicine for bathing. According to their feedback, it seems that some effects will take time, but improvements are expected soon.”

“Alright, everyone should stay vigilant. Also, everyone at the city gate must be attentive. Screen everyone coming in, and check if they have anything unusual with them. Remember to bring a few trustworthy people to conduct thorough inspections at the city gate. There must be a reason for this disease.”

“No need to worry, sir. I’ll ensure your directives are carried out. However, we have four gates, and…”

“Big brother, you go and guard one of the gates. Zilan, you also guard one of the city gates. Who do you think can manage the other one?”

The individuals present exchanged glances, and then Zhuang Hou volunteered. The wealthy businessmen were hesitating, realizing that it might be a bit unusual for them to undertake such tasks.or them to undertake such tasks.