Coroner's Diary

"What? The Anyang Marquis wants to adopt Ninth Miss as his adopted daughter?"

Qin Li stood up from his seat, his face filled with astonishment. Seated at the head of the room, Huo Huaixin nodded with a smile. "Indeed. As you know, Ninth Miss has been taking care of the Grand Princess and has earned the affection of both the Grand Princess and the Marquise. This decision was made by the Grand Princess, and both the Marquis and his wife fully approve—"

Qin Li gradually recovered from his initial shock and began to understand. It was true—Qin Guan often visited the marquis's residence, and the young lady of the house frequently came to play with Qin Guan. Collecting himself, Qin Li asked, "This... this is naturally good news for Ninth Miss, but may I ask what arrangements the marquis's household has in mind?"

Seeing Qin Li's sensible response, Huo Huaixin smiled approvingly. "The Grand Princess mentioned that a grand banquet would have been appropriate, but given that Ninth Miss is about to depart, there simply isn’t enough time. Instead, they plan to host a banquet tomorrow at the marquis's residence, inviting Madam Qin and the Second Young Master to attend. That will serve as the formal ceremony."

Qin Li quickly nodded. "The Grand Princess has considered everything thoroughly. In that case, I’ll go inform my mother at once."

Huo Huaixin smiled and nodded. "Very well. Please also take these gifts to Madam Qin for her review. I’ll wait here for your response. Once everything is settled, I’ll return to the marquis's residence to report."

Qin Li initially wanted to say there was no need to wait for a reply, as he doubted Lin Shi would refuse. However, to avoid making the Qin Manor appear too eager, he simply nodded. "Understood. Then I must trouble the Prefect to wait a moment."

Huo Huaixin waved his hand. "Go ahead, it’s no trouble at all."

Qin Li instructed He Xing to attend to the guests before taking the gifts brought by Huo Huaixin to Lin Shi’s courtyard.

As he walked, Qin Li couldn’t help but feel a twinge of unease. At this critical juncture, just as the Qin family was preparing to leave Jinzhou, the marquis's household had chosen to adopt Qin Guan as their daughter. Their intentions couldn’t be clearer—they were providing Qin Guan with a powerful backing.

Not daring to delay, Qin Li soon arrived outside Lin Shi’s courtyard. The servant at the door went in to announce him, returning shortly to say, "Second Young Master, my apologies, but Madam is unwell and resting in bed. She isn’t receiving visitors at the moment."

Qin Li’s brow furrowed, and a cold smile tugged at his lips. "It’s not me who wishes to see her—the Prefect has come in person with an important matter to discuss. Will she refuse him as well?"

Only then did the servant notice the attendants behind Qin Li carrying gifts. After a moment’s hesitation, the servant quickly said, "Please wait a moment, Second Young Master," before hurrying back inside.

Qin Li stood at the doorway, his smile turning sardonic. He was well aware that his status as a concubine-born son made him unwelcome, but he was the one currently holding the Qin Manor together. Yet Lin Shi still failed to grasp the gravity of the situation. Did she really think he would come here without good reason?

Suppressing his irritation, Qin Li waited until the servant reappeared. "Second Young Master, Madam requests your presence."

Qin Li smirked inwardly before stepping inside.

Upon entering, Lin Shi had yet to emerge from the inner chamber, so Qin Li waited in the outer room. After a short while, Qin Xiang helped Lin Shi out. Qin Li bowed slightly. "Mother—"

Qin Xiang guided Lin Shi to the main seat, where she settled before clearing her throat. "The Prefect has come to the manor?"Lin Shi spoke while glancing at the attendants standing by the door, noticing each held gifts in their hands. Her suspicion deepened. Qin Li then said, "Yes, the Prefect has come to intercede on behalf of the Marquis Manor."

"Marquis Manor? Marquis Anyang Manor?" A faint glimmer appeared in Lin Shi's eyes.

Qin Li nodded, deliberately speaking slowly, "Indeed, Marquis Anyang Manor—"

Lin Shi grew somewhat anxious upon hearing this. "What matter does Marquis Anyang Manor have that requires the Prefect to come in person?"

Qin Li smiled. "The Anyang Marquis wishes to adopt Ninth Sister as his adopted daughter and has asked the Prefect to serve as a witness."

Lin Shi froze. Qin Xiang, standing beside her, also furrowed her brows tightly. After a few moments, Lin Shi finally spoke again, "Adopt... adopt Guan'er as his adopted daughter?"

Seeing the expressions on Lin Shi and her daughter's faces, Qin Li felt a surge of satisfaction. Qin Guan had once been someone sunk in the mire, someone they looked down upon. Yet now, her fortunes were something Qin Xiang could never hope to match. How could Lin Shi and Qin Xiang not be furious?

"Exactly. And since Ninth Sister is leaving soon, the Marquis Manor has scheduled the ceremony for tomorrow. In truth, there won’t be much of a ceremony. Lord Huo said the Marquis Manor intends to keep it simple—just inviting you, Mother, and me to attend the banquet."

Lin Shi's grip on the armrest tightened slightly. Instinctively, she asked, "Why would the Marquis Manor suddenly want to adopt Guan'er as their adopted daughter?" Her eyes then shifted craftily. "This matter should probably be discussed with the main branch of the family first..."

Qin Li immediately frowned. "Mother, how can you be so foolish!"

In the past, Qin Li would never have dared to speak to Lin Shi like this. But now, things were different. He was the head of Qin Manor and dissatisfied with Lin Shi's attitude toward him, so his expression turned cold.

Lin Shi's face stiffened at his words, but before she could respond, Qin Li continued, "Over these past few years, has the main branch ever cared for Ninth Sister? They aren’t her birth parents—their relationship with her is no closer than ours. Besides, Ninth Sister is currently in Jinzhou. Naturally, the Marquis Manor recognizes us as her elders. Although the heir has come, the Marquis Manor must be aware of it. Yet this time, they didn’t invite him. What does that mean? It’s because, in the eyes of the Marquis Manor, the heir is also a junior, unworthy of an invitation."

After a pause, Qin Li said solemnly, "Ninth Sister gaining the Marquis Manor’s favor is her good fortune and ours as well. With this connection, the Marquis Manor will surely look after us in the future. We’ll have ties to them. The Prefect is still waiting in the main hall. If Mother hesitates now and stirs up unnecessary thoughts, it would be rather ungrateful."

Lin Shi had never been spoken to like this by Qin Li before. The phrase "ungrateful" was clearly an accusation. Anger surged within her, yet Qin Li’s words seemed irrefutable. Looking at his upright posture and stern expression, Lin Shi realized for the first time that Qin Manor had a new master. Even if Jiang Shi were gone, she could not overstep.

With this thought, Lin Shi closed her eyes slightly and said coolly, "Since Second Young Master now has his own ideas, we’ll proceed as you wish. We’ll attend the banquet tomorrow."

With that, she opened her eyes, stood up, and walked into the inner chamber with Qin Xiang supporting her.

Qin Li also rose, smiling. "That’s more like it, Mother. I’ll leave these gifts here for you—"Seeing Lin Shi walk straight into the inner chamber without looking back, Qin Li gave a cold laugh and pointed to a nearby table. "Leave it there for the madam."

With that, he turned and left as well.

As soon as she entered the inner chamber, Qin Xiang's face darkened fiercely. "Mother, how could the marquis's manor take her in as an adopted daughter?! The adopted daughter of the marquis's manor—isn't that almost equivalent to a princess?! This is truly—"

Qin Xiang's voice was thick with malice, her jealousy plain to see. Lin Shi also frowned. Among the three Qin sisters, Qin Xiang had originally been the most noble. But now, if Qin Guan became the adopted daughter of the marquis's manor, she would far surpass Qin Xiang. And Qin Guan's looks were already superior to Qin Xiang's. If her status also...

Lin Shi sat down on the bed, her eyes filled with worry. "Xiang'er, what's done is done. There's nothing we can do about it now."

Qin Xiang sat beside Lin Shi, narrowing her eyes with a cold smile. "What skillful tactics, fooling everyone into pampering her. So what if she's recognized the marquis as her adoptive father? Once we reach the capital, he won't be able to protect her from afar."

Lin Shi tightly grasped Qin Xiang's hand, her eyes reddening slightly as if she had thought of something. "Xiang'er, do you know what this trip to the capital is really for?"

Qin Xiang's eyes flickered. "Daughter... doesn't know..."

Lin Shi sighed. "I didn’t want to tell you this, but if I don’t, you won’t understand. Xiang'er, this time in the capital, the main branch of the family will most likely arrange marriages for you and your two younger sisters."

Though Qin Xiang claimed not to know, she showed no surprise upon hearing this. Lin Shi squeezed her hand tightly. "Xiang'er, listen to your mother. From the moment we leave Qin Manor, don’t antagonize your ninth sister. Get along well with her. On this journey, talk more with your third brother. He is the future marquis of Loyal Marquis Manor and already holds considerable influence. He has a past friendship with your ninth sister, so you must make sure she likes you too. Once in the capital, try to please your aunt and eighth sister. Marriage arrangements will mostly depend on your aunt's recommendations and your uncle's final decision. In short, once in the capital, don’t stand out too much. Be adaptable and tactful."

Qin Xiang listened, her heart filled with bitterness and resentment. She had once been the most beloved eldest daughter of Qin Manor, her lineage and grace enough to attract suitors from prominent southern families. She hadn’t needed to go to the capital—there were plenty of powerful clans in the south. But now, with Qin Manor's decline, the capital was their only option.

All her life, she had only needed to coax Qin Shuang to make her serve her every whim. Yet now, her mother was asking her to reconcile with that lowly girl she had once tormented endlessly—and to fawn over others at every turn.

A surge of anger choked Qin Xiang, but she had no outlet for it. Seeing Lin Shi's reddened eyes and wrinkled face, she felt even more powerless. Her mother was too weak; she had no strong maternal family, no powerful father. On the contrary, her father was a stain on her reputation. With these thoughts, Qin Xiang directed all her resentment and hatred toward Qin Guan.

"Xiang'er, are you listening...?"

Lin Shi tightened her grip on Qin Xiang's hand, making her wince in pain.

Qin Xiang snapped back to attention and quickly nodded. "I heard, I heard."Lin Shi half-embraced Qin Xiang and wept softly, "Mother has no other means to help you besides giving you my dowry. Xiang'er, you must strive for Mother's sake, and for your own."

Qin Xiang nodded with bitterness in her heart, her brows furrowing deeply at the thought of Qin Guan becoming the Anyang Marquis's adopted daughter tomorrow.

...

As dusk fell, the Marquis's invitation arrived at Orchid Isle Courtyard. Fuling entered the main room with a bright smile. "Miss, the time is set for tomorrow at the Hour of the Goat. Let's go early—"

Qin Guan had already finished her evening ablutions and was dressed only in a moon-white undergarment. She shook her head at the suggestion. "We'll go with the Madam."

After a pause, she asked, "What did the Madam say?"

Fuling gave a light snort. "What else could she say? Naturally, she wouldn't dare refuse."

Qin Guan said nothing more. Just then, the courtyard gate creaked softly. Fuling went out to check and saw Wan Xing had already opened it—standing outside were Qin Li with two servants.

Fuling hurried forward. "Second Young Master, what brings you here?"

Qin Li glanced toward the main room, his lips curving slightly. "Tomorrow is no ordinary occasion. Time was too short, so I could only manage to purchase a ready-made outfit from Brocade Embroidery Workshop. Fortunately, they still had Ninth Sister's measurements—this dress should fit her perfectly. I also prepared a set of ruby jewelry."

As he spoke, the two servants stepped forward with boxes in hand. Fuling quickly said, "Second Young Master, you shouldn't have gone to such expense. Would you like to come in and speak with Miss?"

Qin Li waved his hand. "No need. Let your mistress rest early."

Fuling hesitated. "But this—"

"Accept it. Last time she refused my silver. Consider this my sincere gesture."

When Fuling remained silent, Qin Li personally took the boxes and placed one in her hands, then gave the other to Wan Xing before turning to leave. Only after Qin Li had gone a dozen paces did Fuling snap out of her daze and call out, "Thank you, Second Young Master!"

Qin Li raised a hand in acknowledgment without looking back. Fuling closed the courtyard gate and returned to the main room with Wan Xing.

Qin Guan had already heard the commotion outside. Seeing Fuling return with two boxes, she asked, "Second Brother came?"

Fuling nodded, setting down the boxes with Wan Xing's help. "He said he bought these this afternoon at Brocade Embroidery Workshop, along with a set of ruby jewelry." As she spoke, Fuling opened the boxes—the jewelry case glittered brilliantly, while the other contained a tea-white pleated long skirt with wide sleeves, embroidered with silver-threaded white orchids. Fuling's eyes immediately lit up at the sight.

"The Second Young Master truly put great thought into this. This dress couldn't be more perfect for you, Miss. And this ruby set—it surely wasn't purchased on short notice either..."

Qin Guan stepped forward to examine them and sighed inwardly. This consultation fee was proving rather costly.

Having brought in the gifts without Qin Guan's prior approval, Fuling worried she might be displeased. Tentatively, she asked, "Miss... tomorrow, will you...?"

"I'll wear this," Qin Guan said quietly.

Hearing this, Fuling's eyes sparkled with joy as she responded brightly, "Yes, Miss!"The next day, after noon, Qin Guan finished her preparations and headed to the front courtyard. Upon arrival, she saw Qin Li, who had unusually changed into an elegant white robe. Normally, he had a somewhat gloomy demeanor and often wore dark colors like blue, but the new white attire dispelled some of that gloom. His jet-black hair was tied up high with a jade crown, and with his health slightly improved, he appeared much brighter and more handsome. Fuling was momentarily stunned when she saw him.

"Miss, it's true what they say—fine feathers make fine birds," Fuling murmured under her breath.

But Qin Li was the one truly struck with admiration when he saw Qin Guan. She was wearing the dress he had bought for her—a tea-white gown as pure as frost and snow, with wide sleeves fluttering and skirts swaying gracefully. The delicate color complemented her noble and refined demeanor, while the silver-threaded orchid embroidery added a touch of gentleness. With her graceful figure, the dress accentuated her elegance and charm. Qin Li sighed inwardly—without proper protection, such beauty could be dangerous.

"Second Brother—" Qin Guan curtsied slightly. "Thank you."

Qin Li knew what she was thanking him for and quickly replied, "No need for thanks. We're family. I can only feel at ease if you accept these gifts. Let’s wait a moment—Mother will be here soon."

Just then, Lin Shi arrived, supported by two maids. Since they were attending a banquet at the Marquis's residence, she had also changed into new clothes and applied light makeup, masking some of her sickly pallor. From a distance, she still looked every bit the dignified noblewoman of the Qin family.

"Mother—"

"Third Aunt—"

Qin Li and Qin Guan stepped forward to greet her. Lin Shi offered a faint smile and affectionately reached out to Qin Guan, who quickly moved to support her. Qin Li snorted inwardly at the sight but felt somewhat relieved. Today’s banquet was important—if Lin Shi behaved improperly, it would reflect poorly on Qin Guan, and by extension, on him.

Holding Qin Guan’s hand, Lin Shi coughed lightly and said, "Good child, the Marquis's favor is a blessing for you."

Qin Guan smiled slightly. "The Marquis and his lady are simply kind-hearted."

"Even so, they wouldn’t just adopt anyone. You are fortunate—remember to honor your adoptive parents in the future." Lin Shi’s tone was gentle, reminiscent of how she used to speak deferentially in front of Jiang Shi.

Qin Guan naturally agreed. The group then headed to the main gate to board the carriages. Originally, three carriages had been prepared, but at the last moment, Lin Shi said, "Let Guan'er ride with me. There’s no need for so many carriages."

Qin Guan had no choice but to join Lin Shi in the first carriage. Once the carriage started moving, Lin Shi began making idle conversation—first asking about daily life at the Marquis's residence, then about the Grand Princess's preferences, and finally probing whether the Marquis’s family might leave Jinzhou and return to the capital. Qin Guan answered the trivial questions but deftly avoided the ones she didn’t wish to address.

Finally, Lin Shi suddenly took Qin Guan’s hand and said, "Guan'er, though you’re a year younger than Xiang'er and Shuang'er, you’re the most composed of the three. Since you’ll soon be leaving, I must ask you to look after them."

Qin Guan blinked. "Third Aunt flatters me. In terms of composure, I still fall short of Fifth Sister."Lin Shi sighed, "Xiang'er may not seem as lively as Shuang'er, but she's also inexperienced in worldly matters. I've been quite worried during this journey. At least you've lived in the capital before, but Xiang'er and Shuang'er never have. I fear they'll feel lost and out of place in the capital. They'll have to rely on you then."

Qin Guan lowered her eyes briefly. "We sisters naturally look out for each other. Please rest assured, Third Aunt."

Hearing this, Lin Shi slowly exhaled in relief. "Good, good. With your words, I can set my mind at ease."

Lin Shi sighed again and then shifted the conversation to Qin Chen, her voice choking with emotion as if she had completely forgotten Qin Chen's past harm toward Qin Guan. Qin Guan listened quietly, offering little response until Lin Shi finally stopped. Changing the subject, Lin Shi added, "I recall that after your parents passed, the Second Branch's assets were entrusted to the clan. I wonder what your uncle's stance is on this now?"

This question stirred some doubt in Qin Guan's mind. When Ninth Miss's parents died, she was only nine and naturally incapable of managing family assets. Entrusting them to the clan wasn't unusual, but Fuling had never mentioned it. How should she respond? Qin Guan's gaze shifted slightly. "That was many years ago. I've forgotten the details..."

Lin Shi's eyes dimmed. "I remember the Second Branch's assets were substantial back then. Who knows how things stand now."

Qin Guan had no interest in such matters. Returning to the capital, her first priority was to uncover the truth about her father's case. She knew the difficulty of this task and had no intention of fighting over family assets.

Seeing Qin Guan remain silent, Lin Shi fell quiet. Soon, the carriage came to a smooth stop in front of the Marquis's residence.

As soon as the carriage halted, Yue Ning's voice rang out.

"They're here, they're here! Quickly inform the Old Madam—"

Qin Guan's lips curved slightly as she lifted the carriage curtain and stepped down. Yue Ning immediately approached. "Why didn't you come earlier?"

Before she could finish, Lin Shi emerged from the carriage. Qin Guan offered a steadying hand, and once Lin Shi had steadied herself, she gave a slight curtsy. "My Lady—"

Yue Ning glanced between Qin Guan and Lin Shi, smiling as she sidestepped the gesture. "No need for formalities, Madam. Please, come inside."

Just then, Qin Li also stepped forward, offering a respectful bow to Yue Ning with refined manners. Yue Ning raised an eyebrow and chuckled. "No need for such courtesy today. Please, everyone, come in. Grandmother, Father, and Mother are all waiting."

Lin Shi clung affectionately to Qin Guan, who, understanding her motives, indulged her for the moment. The group soon entered the Marquis's residence. Neither Lin Shi nor Qin Li were first-time visitors, and mindful of Qin Manor's reputation, they maintained perfect decorum, their gazes never wandering. Before long, they were led to the reception hall.

Though not a grand banquet, Qin Guan could see the hall had been freshly adorned, with new potted plants placed inside and out. Touched by these details, she bowed deeply to the Grand Princess and the others upon entering.

In the main hall, the Grand Princess sat at the head, with Yue Qiong and his wife to her left and Huo Huaixin and his wife to her right, engaged in cheerful conversation. As Qin Guan and her companions entered, Yue Qiong's family and Huo Huaixin's family promptly rose.

"Greetings to Her Highness the Grand Princess—Greetings to the Marquis—"Lin Shi curtsied in greeting, and Jiang Shi quickly stepped forward to help her up. The Grand Princess smiled from her seat of honor, saying, "Today we need not stand on ceremony. We've gathered here because of Wan Yatou, and from now on we can consider ourselves close. Wan Yatou, come here..."

Only then could Qin Guan leave Lin Shi's side. Meanwhile, Qin Li also paid his respects. As the younger generation, he bowed to Yue Qiong and the others, receiving several words of praise from Jiang Shi. The Grand Princess took Qin Guan's hand, looking her up and down for a few moments. Without directly commenting on her beauty today, she simply nodded repeatedly, "Hmm... very good... very good..."

In the room, Yue Qing and Yue Jia were also present. The Grand Princess smiled and said, "You two take the Second Young Master out to play for a while. Ning'er and Wan Yatou can stay and chat with this old woman. Jing Shu, you lead Madam Huo and the people from the Qin Mansion to have some tea. The auspicious hour is still early, so everyone should relax. As for Qiong'er, she and Lord Huo may go to the study."

With the Grand Princess's instructions, the others naturally complied in unison. Yue Qing was initially displeased, but Yue Jia smoothly invited Qin Li out to the Martial Arts Field Performance. Qin Li, though not particularly skilled in martial arts, was unwilling to dampen the mood and agreed. Lin Shi had visited the Marquis's residence before and had met Jiang Shi, but she had never spoken intimately with her. Now, seeing the Grand Princess and witnessing Jiang Shi's sisterly camaraderie, she found herself somewhat at a loss.

Yuanshi, who had come with Huo Huaixin, was even more vexed. As someone who stayed within the inner quarters, she had long heard about the matter between Qin Guan and her son. Not only had she dismissed it outright, but she had also regarded Qin Guan as presumptuous and self-deluded. After all, though Qin Guan came from the Qin family, she was orphaned, which put her at a disadvantage in terms of background. Moreover, the former Ninth Miss had been timid and unimpressive, which further fueled Yuanshi's dislike.

Yet the moment Qin Guan entered, Yuanshi stared in stunned silence. Had she not known the purpose of today's gathering, she might have mistaken Qin Guan for some princess or noble lady from the capital. Not only in the Qin Manor of Jinzhou but in the entire Jinzhou region, which young lady could compare to Qin Guan's grace and bearing?

Yuanshi's heart churned with mixed emotions, especially upon hearing that her son had also changed his mind. Regret washed over her. Moreover, the Marquis's residence had now adopted Qin Guan as their daughter, making her utterly flawless. Not only was she fit to marry into the Huo family, but she could even wed a prince or imperial kinsman without any reservation...

Seated across from Jiang Shi, Yuanshi was more familiar with her than Lin Shi was, but she seemed listless. Though she smiled brightly as the three women chatted and laughed, her heart felt as bitter as if she had swallowed coptis.

Meanwhile, the Grand Princess looked at Qin Guan and asked softly, "It seems Madam Lin treats you with affection, but I wonder if it's genuine?"

As she spoke, a shrewd glint flickered in the Grand Princess's eyes, as if she had already seen through Lin Shi. Qin Guan couldn't help but chuckle at her expression and replied tactfully, "Half-genuine, half-feigned—"

The Grand Princess snorted lightly. "I knew it."

Qin Guan smiled. "Grand Princess, don't take it to heart. She has her own difficulties."

The Grand Princess lifted her chin. "Why would I take it to heart? If she truly treated you well, I wouldn't slight her. But since it's half-genuine, the Marquis's residence will naturally uphold all courtesies without fail."

Yue Ning laughed and said to Qin Guan, "Why worry? Grandmother is the most discerning in such matters. Besides, given the Qin family's current state, she naturally wouldn't add to their troubles."

Qin Guan pressed her lips together. "I was being narrow-minded."

The Grand Princess shook her head and sighed. "You're too kind-hearted. But there's no need to dwell on such people. Watching their once-good days crumble is punishment enough from heaven."As they spoke, a servant entered to serve tea. The Grand Princess immediately straightened her posture and assumed a solemn demeanor. Qin Guan and Yue Ning exchanged glances, barely suppressing their laughter. Yue Ning sighed, "Ever since Grandmother recovered from her illness, she's become more and more like a mischievous child."

The Grand Princess snorted lightly, "I've simply seen through things now. In the past, though I indulged my own temperament, there were still many rules to follow. But now, I don't care about so many restrictions anymore."

While the three were chatting, Yang Xi soon entered to announce that the auspicious hour was approaching.

Hearing this, the Grand Princess immediately ordered everyone to be summoned back. In the main hall, an Auspicious Altar had been arranged, offering the Five Sacrificial Animals in worship to the Yue family ancestors, with incense smoke rising from the tripod. Seeing this grand setup, Lin Shi finally understood how seriously the Marquis's household regarded the adoption ceremony.

Huo Huaixin presided over the ritual, first reciting an Auspicious Text before having Qin Guan kneel and offer incense before the Yue ancestors. Then, she kowtowed and served tea to the Grand Princess and Yue Qiong and his wife, who were seated in the places of honor. Qin Guan obediently addressed them as "Adoptive Father" and "Adoptive Mother." When it came to the Grand Princess, Qin Guan hesitated momentarily, unsure how to address her. Jiang Shi chuckled from the side, "Silly child, of course you call her Grandmother."

Qin Guan's face flushed slightly as she softly called out "Grandmother." This address tugged at her heartstrings—her own father's mother had passed away early, so she had never had a grandmother before. Moreover, the Grand Princess had treated her with the utmost kindness, and Qin Guan had spent more time with her, making their bond particularly special.

The Grand Princess's eyes brimmed with emotion as she ordered a black sandalwood box to be brought forward. "This is a gift your adoptive parents and I have prepared for you. Keep it well."

Yang Xi personally presented the box. "Fourth Young Miss, please accept this."

The title "Fourth Young Miss" formally acknowledged Qin Guan's new status. As she took the box, she noticed it wasn't particularly heavy—it didn't seem to contain jewels or jade. Lin Shi and Huo Huaixin exchanged puzzled glances. For such an important occasion as an adoption, the gift should naturally be valuable, yet the box Qin Guan held wasn't large. Could it be filled to the brim with gems?

But judging by how Qin Guan held it, the contents didn't seem heavy either.

While they wondered, the well-traveled Huo Huaixin had already guessed—the box likely contained something far more valuable than a chest full of jewels.

"Thank you, Grandmother. Thank you, Adoptive Father and Mother."

After Qin Guan finished her bows, Yue Jia stepped forward with a smile. "Fourth Sister, this is my gift for you."

Yue Jia, honest and upright in character, greatly resembled Yue Qiong and carried himself with the dignity of an eldest brother. His gift was an inkstone of exceptionally deep hue, undoubtedly carefully selected from his own collection. Qin Guan accepted it with a bow. "Thank you, Eldest Brother."

Next, Yue Qing approached. After two days, his expression had settled into calmness. Gazing at Qin Guan's delicate and refined features, he rubbed his nose sheepishly. "Well, Fourth Sister, I don't have anything as fine as theirs. These medical books are for you. The gift is modest—please don't take offense."

A servant behind him handed over a bundle. At a glance, Qin Guan saw it contained over a dozen medical texts, all yellowed with age—clearly ancient editions. A pang of guilt suddenly stirred in her heart.She remembered the last time Yue Qing had offered to give her medical books, but she had refused. In the end, the books were still given, though the intention behind them had changed. Although she had no feelings for Yue Qing, it was never good to make others unhappy. Qin Guan sighed inwardly but kept her expression neutral, smiling as she said, "Thank you, Second Brother. I will study these books carefully!"

Yue Qing exhaled, forcing a bright look into his eyes. Before he could speak, Yue Ning pulled Qin Guan aside. "Little Sister, call me 'Elder Sister' first—only then will I give you your gift!"

Yue Ning's voice was bold and spirited, her arm draped over Qin Guan's shoulder like a young man's. Hearing this, the Grand Princess and Jiang Shi both laughed. The Grand Princess scolded playfully, "Where did you learn such rogue manners?"

Yue Ning then pulled out an exquisitely crafted sleeve arrow from her sleeve. "Will you call me or not?"

Qin Guan couldn't help but laugh. Though Yue Ning was demanding she call her "Elder Sister," Qin Guan played along with an indulgent expression, as if helpless against her antics. "Fine, fine... dear Elder Sister... won't you give your little sister the gift now?"

Her tone softened, though inwardly she cringed at her own words. Yet, seeing Yue Ning burst into hearty laughter, Qin Guan could only sigh in amusement. Satisfied, Yue Ning handed over the gift. "Here, I'll teach you how to use it later. Carry it with you—it can protect you!"

Jiang Shi shook her head in resignation. "Your eldest and second brothers gave elegant gifts, but you, as the elder sister, give a weapon of all things. Really..."

Huo Huaixin quickly interjected, "The Marquis's household is full of heroes, and even the young mistress is a woman who rivals men!"

Yue Ning was quite pleased with this remark, entirely unbothered by Jiang Shi's comment. The Grand Princess saw no issue with it either and, seeing that the formalities were complete, promptly invited everyone to the banquet. Once seated, Qin Guan glanced around—everyone was present except Yan Chi. She hesitated to ask directly but felt the otherwise perfect and joyous gathering was missing something.

As the banquet began, Qin Guan first toasted the Grand Princess and the others before everyone started eating. Huo Huaixin praised Qin Guan while casually mentioning, "The recently captured suspect confessed another lead, this time implicating a deputy general stationed in the west. His Highness set out last night to apprehend him—I wonder if he’ll return today."

The Grand Princess snorted lightly at this. "He’s probably afraid of coming back and upsetting me."

The remark seemed abrupt, but it instantly made Huo Huaixin break into a cold sweat. He hadn’t mentioned that it was Yan Chi who proposed the idea of adopting Qin Guan as a daughter. Yesterday, he had smugly believed he’d facilitated a good deed, only to realize later that he’d been used as Yan Chi’s pawn. He thought his flattery had been seamless, but Yan Chi had seen right through him and manipulated him with just a few words.

Huo Huaixin’s face burned with shame, and the mere thought of Yan Chi sent a shiver down his spine. He wondered—had the Grand Princess found out?

The Grand Princess gave no one a chance to question further, steering the conversation elsewhere. Qin Guan didn’t dwell on it either, focusing instead on ensuring everyone enjoyed themselves. After the meal, she stayed with the Grand Princess until it grew late before preparing to leave. By then, Lin Shi had finally managed to speak normally with Jiang Shi, and as they departed, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride.On the way back, Lin Shi glanced at the ebony box beside Qin Guan and said, "I wonder what the Grand Princess has gifted? Why don't you open it and see, Guan'er? It must be something very thoughtful..."

Qin Guan understood Lin Shi's implication. Though she found her behavior impolite, curiosity stirred within her as well. Since the Grand Princess's gift was certainly nothing improper, Qin Guan lifted the lid of the box.

Upon opening it, the first thing that caught her eye was a stack of papers. Qin Guan blinked, initially assuming they might be banknotes. But upon closer inspection, she realized it was a deed to a property—located in the capital. Beneath it lay several more documents. When she flipped through them, each turned out to be yet another property deed.

With a sharp snap, Qin Guan closed the box. This was far more valuable than a box full of banknotes.

Lin Shi had caught a glimpse of the deed and wanted to see the rest, but Qin Guan shut the lid. "Why stop now...?" Lin Shi pressed.

Qin Guan smiled faintly. "The light here is too dim. I'll examine them properly when we return."

Though she knew it was an excuse, Lin Shi couldn't insist further. Clenching her sleeves tightly, bitterness welled up in her heart again. The Marquis's family had gifted Qin Guan properties in the capital—how could a box of gemstones compare?

Thoughts of her own daughter, Qin Xiang, sent waves of pain through Lin Shi's chest. She remained silent for the rest of the journey. Upon arriving at the estate gates, she hurriedly disembarked and strode inside without a backward glance. Qin Guan pretended not to notice, while Qin Li escorted her all the way to her courtyard gate before departing. Before leaving, Qin Li sighed, "Seeing how highly the Marquis's family regards you, Ninth Sister, this elder brother can rest easy."

Night had gradually fallen, and a solitary lantern glowed beneath the eaves of the main house in Orchid Isle Courtyard. Qin Li seemed deeply moved but at a loss for words. After lingering a moment longer, he finally took his leave.

Watching him go, Qin Guan turned and entered the courtyard. Wan Xing was waiting at the entrance and accompanied her to the main house. Fuling lit the lamps in the corners, her face still beaming with joy. "Miss, where should we put these things?"

"Take them to the inner chamber. We'll be bringing them along."

Fuling nodded and headed inside, while Qin Guan instinctively moved toward the Warm Chamber. But as she reached the doorway, her steps froze abruptly—the supposedly empty room held a silent figure standing within.

Qin Guan wasn't startled. She composed herself almost instantly, then glanced around at the tightly shut doors and windows in puzzlement. "Your Highness, how did you get in here?"