Tanmengdaoren
彭公案
"彭公案" by Tanmengdaoren is a historical fiction novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the character 彭公 (Pang Gong), who has been appointed as the magistrate of Sanhe County. As he embarks on his journey to his new post, he encounters various challenges and conflicts that set the stage for his efforts to maintain justice and uphold the law. The opening of the novel introduces 彭公 as he prepares to leave for Sanhe County after receiving his appointment. He engages in respectful farewells with his family, including his wife, who is unable to accompany him due to her pregnancy. After paying homage to his ancestors, 彭公 sets off with his servant 彭興, and they soon stop at a roadside tea house. Here, they learn about a local fair and begin to hear whispers of local trouble—particularly regarding an overarching evil figure, left unnamed in this section, who threatens the safety of the people, setting up the potential for conflict as 彭公 strives to fulfill his duties as a just leader.