Coroner's Diary

Once October arrived, winter was considered to have begun. The further north one traveled, the more biting the cold became.

Leaving Jinzhou and heading north, one would reach Shili Temple after a day's journey. Another two days of travel would bring them to Qi County, the northernmost part of Jinzhou Prefecture. Beyond Qi County lay Yongzhou, and after turning northeast for five more days, they would exit Yongzhou and enter Yuanzhou. The southern edge of Yuanzhou was marked by the Wild Goose River, and crossing it at Jialing Ferry would bring them to the foot of Cloud Mist Mountain.

Cloud Mist Mountain served as the natural boundary between the north and south of the Great Zhou Dynasty and was renowned for its breathtaking scenery. Its undulating peaks stretched for hundreds of miles, shaping the hilly terrain south of Yuanzhou. Towns and villages dotted the landscape, thriving by the river's bounty. The region was not only fertile and rich in resources but also home to scenic wonders like Lancang Lake, Lingyin Temple, Cloud Mist Academy, and Goddess Gorge.

The Qin sisters, who had never been on a boat before, began suffering from seasickness as soon as they boarded. In just half an hour crossing the river, they vomited three times. While Qin Shuang managed somewhat, Qin Xiang's delicate constitution left her utterly drained. By the time they disembarked north of the Wild Goose River, she could barely walk. Each sister had two maids in attendance: Qin Shuang was accompanied by Wan Qing and Xiu Yun, while Qin Xiang had Wan He and Xiu Zhi, who had previously served Lin Shi. Wan He and Xiu Zhi half-carried Qin Xiang off the boat, as their carriages and luggage had been unloaded for the crossing, requiring a short wait before they could board again.

Qin Yan arranged for a private room at a teahouse near the ferry, allowing the sisters to rest briefly.

"Miss, how are you feeling?" Wan He helped Qin Xiang sit down, but the latter only pressed her lips together, her face pale and her brow furrowed in discomfort. One hand clutched her chest as if she might retch again.

Xiu Zhi handed her a cup of tea, but Qin Xiang took only a small sip before setting it aside. Both maids watched her with concern. Meanwhile, Qin Shuang was already nibbling on the pastries served by the waiter. "The area around Cloud Mist Mountain is famous for its tea—these Tea Cakes are delicious!"

While Qin Shuang bounced back quickly after her ordeal on the boat, Qin Xiang's frailty made her seem all the more pitiable in contrast. Wan He shot Qin Shuang an annoyed glance before her gaze settled on the figure by the window.

The private room was on the second floor, and the half-open window framed Qin Guan, who stood there in a lotus-hued dress and a misty blue cape. Unlike the lively Qin Shuang or the fragile Qin Xiang, who resembled a delicate lotus trembling in the wind, Qin Guan stood with impeccable poise. Despite the fatigue of travel, her graceful demeanor and serene composure remained unshaken. The light streaming through the window cast a silvery glow over her, as if she were bathed in moonlight.

What kind of ethereal, radiant being was she?

Wan He couldn't help but glance down at Qin Xiang again. The latter's face was twisted in discomfort, her new dress wrinkled and disheveled. In both appearance and bearing, she paled in comparison. As they moved further from Jinzhou, Wan He began to feel a growing unease.Qin Guan naturally didn't overlook the movements of Qin Xiang and Qin Shuang. She glanced at Wan Xing, who then approached Qin Xiang and took out a sachet. "Fifth Young Miss, this is a Medicine Sachet made by our Young Miss to relieve seasickness."

Upon hearing this, Wan He reached out to take it, but Qin Xiang waved her hand dismissively. "No need."

At this, Wan He withdrew her hand, giving Wan Xing an apologetic look. Wan Xing expressionlessly retrieved the Medicine Sachet and, without another word, retreated back to Qin Guan's side.

Qin Guan didn't spare Qin Xiang a glance. Her gaze lingered on the Qin Manor guards loading carts not far from the teahouse—more precisely, on Zhou Huai, who was directing them.

Their journey had lasted thirteen days so far. Though slower than anticipated, they had covered more than half the distance. Throughout the trip, Qin Guan had rarely spoken to Steward Zhou.

His scholarly demeanor made it clear he was no ordinary steward, yet he followed behind Qin Yan like a silent shadow. The journey had been tedious, so Qin Guan busied herself making Medicine Sachets and reading. In her spare time, she observed the habits of those around her. Qin Yan was fastidious—daily cleaning of the carriage seats and horse saddles, changing robes every day, and demanding the same meticulousness from his two personal attendants. He also had a passion for reading, even sending people to buy books along the way—a trait uncommon among the typical pleasure-seeking scions of wealthy families.

As for Steward Zhou, Qin Guan couldn't discern much. He had managed everything during the journey, rising early each day, yet revealing no personal preferences. If he were merely a low-ranking guard, it wouldn't matter, but Qin Yan's attitude suggested he held considerable status in the manor. He had the means and authority for indulgences, yet displayed none.

This inexplicable restraint left Qin Guan with an unsettling sense of mystery...

"It's already noon. I wonder where we'll rest tonight?"

Suddenly, Qin Shuang approached Qin Guan. The arduous journey had thinned her slightly, sharpening her cheeks and enhancing her looks. Her question seemed directed at Qin Guan, yet also like musing aloud. When Qin Guan didn't respond, she looked up at the sky. "The sky looks gloomy. Will it rain?"

She tightened her cape around herself. "It's getting colder."

Still receiving no reply, Qin Shuang grew uneasy and muttered, "If it rains, we can't stay somewhere crude, or we'll freeze to death."

"If anything falls now, it'll be snow, not rain."

Qin Guan finally spoke, and Qin Shuang's eyes brightened instantly. "What? Snow?!"

Qin Guan smiled at her excitement. "It's October—time for snow."

Qin Shuang's eyes sparkled as she gazed skyward, as if trying to spot the first snowflakes. "So the north really gets snow this early? Will it fall tonight?"Qin Shuang had lived in Jinzhou since birth, and Jinzhou was located south of the Great Zhou. Even when it snowed, the flakes would melt as soon as they touched the ground. Watching Qin Shuang's excitement, Qin Guan shook her head. She had spent considerable time with her father in the western and northern regions before. Though she also enjoyed snowy days, she wasn’t as eager as Qin Shuang to see snow. Moreover...

"If heavy snow falls, the mountain paths will become difficult to traverse, and our journey will slow down."

Qin Guan didn’t mention that if they encountered a blizzard, the roads might be blocked entirely, leaving them stranded.

Yet upon hearing this, Qin Shuang merely grinned. "So what if it’s slower? I’ve never seen heavy snow before. Does it snow in the capital?"

"It does. The capital sees snow every year," Qin Guan replied.

Qin Shuang sighed in relief. "Good. If I don’t see it on the way, I can still see it in the capital."

As they spoke, Qin Guan noticed the carriages in the distance had been loaded, with all the trunks secured. Meanwhile, Qin Yan was approaching the teahouse where they were resting. Soon, footsteps neared their private room.

With a creak, the door opened, and Qin Yan stepped inside. "Sisters, the carriages are ready. Everyone should board now. The sky is growing darker, and we must hurry."

Qin Shuang acknowledged him, while Qin Guan turned to leave. Qin Xiang, supported by Wan He, looked even paler and more unwell. Qin Yan quickly stepped forward. "Fifth Sister, are you still feeling unwell?"

Qin Xiang shook her head. "It’s nothing, Third Brother. Let’s go."

Qin Yan’s eyes were full of concern. "Are you sure?"

Qin Xiang straightened her back. "I’m fine. We shouldn’t delay the journey. Let’s move quickly."

With a sigh, Qin Yan said sympathetically, "Very well. Once we reach tonight’s resting place, you can rest properly." He then extended his hand to personally assist Qin Xiang downstairs.

Qin Shuang and Qin Guan followed behind. Qin Shuang snorted. "Honestly, she refuses to use the Medicine Sachet and insists on acting so frail. I wonder what she’s trying to prove."

Qin Guan smiled faintly but said nothing more as they left the teahouse and boarded the carriage.

The convoy was fully prepared. Just as Qin Guan settled into the carriage, she heard Zhou Huai’s voice outside.

"Young Master, we’ve lost some time. We’ll need to pick up the pace."

Qin Yan agreed. "Yes, let’s move faster. The weather doesn’t look good—"

"Indeed. Heavy snow is certain within two days."

Zhou Huai’s tone was firm before he strode ahead.

Soon, the convoy set off, moving much faster than their previous pace south of Wild Goose River. The increased speed made the ride even bumpier. Though their carriage was sturdy and spacious, equipped with seating, hidden cabinets, and a small table—usually suitable for brewing tea—now, with the rough ride, nothing could safely be placed on the table.

"Miss, heavy snow within two days?" Fuling leaned against the carriage wall, feeling queasy from the jolting.

Qin Guan shook her head. "I don’t know for sure, but if Steward Zhou says so, it’s likely true."

Fuling sighed. "Sixth Miss is looking forward to the snow, but if it’s heavy, our journey will become unbearable."Qin Guan nodded, then turned her gaze to Wan Xing sitting in the corner by the carriage door. The interior of her carriage was lined with a thick woolen rug, and now all three of them—master and servants—were seated upon it. Fuling was her usual self, and Wan Xing remained quiet as ever. Throughout the journey, Qin Guan had hardly heard her speak more than a few words. Unable to suppress her curiosity, Qin Guan asked, "Where are you from, Wan Xing?"

Wan Xing lowered her eyes respectfully and replied, "This servant was born in Yongzhou, but was later... sold to a slave broker."

Yongzhou lay north of Jinzhou, still within the southern regions. Qin Guan nodded. "Are your family still there?"

Wan Xing shook her head. "This servant doesn't know. It's been many years since I had any news of them..."

Hearing this, Qin Guan asked no further. Instead, she lifted the carriage curtain to peer in the direction they were heading. Though it was just past noon, the sky was gradually darkening, with signs of growing gloomier still. Ahead, an endless stretch of dark green mountain shadows loomed—the Cloud Mist Mountain.

Gazing at the seemingly boundless mountain range, Qin Guan felt a slight unease in her heart.

Traveling across flatlands would have been manageable, but now they were approaching mountainous terrain. If heavy snow were to fall, even their sturdier-than-average carriages would struggle, and neither she and her two sisters nor their maids could ride horses like Qin Yan and the others.

Qin Guan could only hope to cross Cloud Mist Mountain before the snow began. Yet, after covering just over ten li, the convoy suddenly slowed. Not only that, but voices from the carriage ahead reached her ears. Moments later, Qin Yan rode up beside her carriage. "Ninth Sister, do you still have any Medicine Sachets with you?"

Qin Guan lifted the carriage curtain. "Yes, I do. What's the matter, Third Brother?"

Qin Yan gave a wry smile. "Fifth Sister is vomiting again, and it looks quite severe."

Qin Guan glanced at Wan Xing, who hurriedly handed over the Medicine Sachet. Qin Yan thanked her and rode ahead. Inside the carriage, Fuling snorted softly. "What's Fifth Miss playing at? She refused it earlier, yet now she sends the heir to ask for it, making it seem as though you were unwilling to give it." She leaned out the window to look. "Seems the heir slowed the convoy for her sake."

Qin Guan grew worried. She had studied their return route to the capital—if their pace slowed further, they would barely make it into the mountains by nightfall, unable to reach their planned resting spot. Though there were many villages in the area, sparing them from being stranded in the wilderness, Qin Guan's unease deepened. A nagging sense of impending trouble settled over her.

After traveling for another hour or so, as the sky darkened further, Zhou Huai suddenly rode back from the front of the convoy and called out, "Heir, it seems we won't make it to Guanyin Town today—"

Qin Yan, who was riding near Qin Xiang's carriage just ahead of Qin Guan's, heard this clearly, as did Qin Guan herself.

Then came Qin Yan's reply. "If we can't make it, so be it. Let's find a village to stay in tonight and continue early tomorrow."

Zhou Huai sighed. "The nearest bustling place beyond Jialing Crossing is Guanyin Town. Though Yuanzhou City is only a day's journey ahead, that's only for fast riders. At our current pace, it'll take over two days."

Qin Yan glanced into the carriage. "We don't need a bustling place. Any village will do. If there's no inn, we can pay well to lodge with a local family."Zhou Huai nodded. "Young Master, do you remember there was a village to the northwest when we came this way?"

Qin Yan thought for a moment before nodding. "I remember. Though we only passed by from a distance, it seemed quite populated. Let's head there—we should be able to reach it before nightfall."

Zhou Huai acknowledged the order and went ahead to instruct the leading guards. Qin Yan then moved to the rear to inform Qin Guan and Qin Shuang. With no other options, they had no choice but to proceed toward the location Qin Yan and Zhou Huai had mentioned.

As the sky darkened, the lead guards changed direction, veering off the main road to Yuanzhou City onto a narrow path barely wider than the carriage. Fortunately, the path was relatively smooth, and though the journey slowed, they encountered no mishaps. By nightfall, Qin Guan peered out the carriage window and could faintly make out a cluster of houses in the distance.

Though visible across the wilderness, it still took nearly an hour to reach the village. By then, the sky was pitch black, devoid of stars or the moon, and a biting wind had begun to howl. When the carriage finally entered the village, Qin Guan was surprised to find it larger than expected.

The main road through the village was well-paved, lined with small courtyards featuring dark-tiled roofs and gray walls. Zhou Huai dispatched two guards to scout ahead, and they soon returned with a report. "Young Master, Steward Zhou, we checked the entire street. There's only one shabby-looking inn, and when we inquired, they said they have just three rooms left—and no food."

The inn was run-down, with only three rooms remaining and no meals available...

Qin Yan frowned. "Then we might as well seek lodging in a private home."

Zhou Huai nodded and scanned the area before approaching the nearest house to knock. The residence appeared relatively prosperous compared to others in the village, and faint lamplight seeped through the door cracks.

After several knocks, the door creaked open slightly, revealing an elderly man with graying hair. He only opened it a hand's width, his face half-hidden, and eyed them warily. "What do you want?"

His tone was far from welcoming. Zhou Huai quickly bowed and explained their situation. The old man's expression remained impassive as he scrutinized them. "Our village doesn't take in outsiders. Move along."

With that, the door slammed shut, followed by the sound of a bolt sliding into place.

Zhou Huai's brow furrowed, and Qin Yan's displeasure was evident. "Never mind. Let's try further ahead."

Zhou Huai complied and moved forward. The three sisters remained in the carriage but had overheard the exchange. Inside, Qin Guan frowned, a vague sense of unease creeping over her.

Outside, Zhou Huai continued down the street, only to find every household tightly shut. Some homes showed lamplight through their doors, but the lights extinguished before they could approach. Others were already dark from the start. Zhou Huai's frown deepened until he spotted another sizable residence.

Knock, knock, knock. Zhou Huai rapped on the door as before. Soon, footsteps approached from within.

No one opened the door—only a man's voice came through. "Who is it?"

Zhou Huai stated their identity and purpose. After a pause, the man replied, "Our village doesn't host outsiders. Leave."After saying this, the person behind the door ran away, and soon, the once-lit house was plunged into darkness.

By now, Zhou Huai sensed something amiss and approached Qin Yan, saying, "Young Master, it seems the villagers are quite wary of outsiders. Staying in a local residence might not be suitable. Perhaps we should settle in the inn for the night? We have plenty of dry rations, so food won’t be an issue. The only inconvenience is for the three young ladies, who may have to share a room tonight."

With only three rooms available—aside from the masters—and over twenty guards and male servants, the carriages were hardly an option for lodging, let alone in such cold weather. Qin Yan had no choice but to nod. "Very well. Have the guides lead the way to the inn."

At his command, the convoy headed toward the inn mentioned earlier by the two guards. After the time it took to drink half a cup of tea, the carriages halted before the inn. Qin Guan stepped down from the carriage and looked up to see a nearly crumbling signboard hanging at the entrance of the inn’s courtyard.

"Changfu Inn?" Fuling murmured, then added, "It looks like it’s been here for over a decade."

As the carriages were led into the courtyard one after another, Qin Guan followed. The inn occupied a sizable area, though the buildings were old and worn. The courtyard lacked a gray wall, bordered only by a row of wooden fences.

Qin Yan led the way inside while Zhou Huai stayed outside to arrange the carriages and horses. Soon, a middle-aged man in dark blue robes emerged. The man was exceptionally short, with a swarthy complexion and yellowed, rough teeth. Seeing such a large group of guests, his face nearly overflowed with delight. "Honored guests from afar, please, come in, come in—"

"So those two young men earlier were inquiring on behalf of the young master and ladies!"

"Young Master, your bearing is extraordinary, and the young ladies resemble celestial beings. Might you be from Yongzhou or Jinzhou?"

As he ushered Qin Yan and the others into the main hall, the man chattered incessantly. "I am Wei Changfu, the proprietor of this inn."

Wei Changfu’s enthusiasm was a stark contrast to the earlier cold reception from the villagers, easing Qin Yan’s discomfort somewhat. He spoke first, "I heard you only have three rooms left? You’ll need to accommodate all of us."

Wei Changfu’s eyes darted, and he quickly devised a plan. "Though the rooms are few, beds are plentiful. The three young ladies can share one room, the young master another, and for the rest of the men, I can offer a storage room and two other rooms. If everyone squeezes in, won’t that suffice? I’ve no shortage of quilts here—no one will go cold."

With that, he called out, "Li Wang, Li Cai, carry two beds to Room Three in the back."

At his shout, two young men who looked honest and simple emerged from a back room behind the high counter. They acknowledged the order and headed toward the rear courtyard. Wei Changfu smiled. "They’re the inn’s helpers. Young Master, please wait a moment. I’ll ensure everything is arranged to your satisfaction."

Qin Yan nodded. "The quilts need only be given to the servants." Then he instructed Fuling and the others, "Go to the carriages and fetch the food and brocade quilts we brought. Later, attend to your young ladies properly."

With this order, Wan Xing, Fuling, and the others promptly went out.Although Qin Yan was the heir of the Marquis's household, he was quite considerate in these matters. Seeing the group standing after entering, Wei Changfu hurriedly said, "Young masters and ladies, please take a seat first. Though I have no food left here, I still have tea—"

There were tables and seating in the main hall. Since they still had some time to wait, Qin Yan invited Qin Guan and the others to sit. Qin Xiang still looked unwell; the Medicine Sachet she had refused from Qin Guan during the day was now tightly clutched in her hand, occasionally brought to her nose for a sniff. Seeing her in such discomfort, Qin Shuang refrained from commenting further. When the innkeeper brought hot tea, she first handed a cup to Qin Xiang.

As soon as she sat down, Qin Guan frowned.

Earlier, while standing, their gazes had been level, but now seated, Qin Guan looked up and noticed the ceiling of the hall. Painted upon it were numerous colorful talismanic symbols in vivid hues, exuding an inexplicable air of eeriness. Recalling the villagers' earlier attitudes, the unease in her heart grew heavier.

As they spoke, Wei Changfu poured tea while saying, "Young master and three young ladies, please don’t worry. Everything will be arranged shortly. I’ve run this inn for over a decade, and no guest has ever left dissatisfied."

Qin Yan, who was particular about cleanliness, held the teacup without drinking. "If that’s the case, why hasn’t the innkeeper even prepared food?"

At this, Wei Changfu’s eyes flickered before he forced a bitter smile. "Well... it’s winter now, and fewer travelers are taking this route to Yuanzhou City..."

Qin Guan frowned slightly, sensing his evasion. She took a sip of hot tea, waiting for the chill in her body to dissipate before speaking. "Innkeeper, why do you assume we came from Yongzhou or Jinzhou?"

Wei Changfu chuckled. "In our line of work, keen observation is key... The three young ladies are so delicate and fair—clearly not from the north. And with so much luggage, you must have come from afar."

Qin Guan’s gaze shifted, but Qin Shuang interjected urgently, "Then why did the villagers say outsiders aren’t welcome here and urge us to leave quickly?"

Wei Changfu’s eyes darted even more nervously. Clearing his throat, he hesitated. "Well..."

Seeing his evasiveness, Qin Yan’s smile turned cold. "Since you pride yourself on good business, don’t hide things from us." He pointed at the symbols on the ceiling. "What are these for?"

Realizing he couldn’t conceal the truth, Wei Changfu set down the teapot with a resigned sigh.

"Of course, of course. I wouldn’t dare deceive the young master and young ladies. This village is called Sanyuan Village. Long ago, there was a vast tea plantation at the foot of Goddess Peak to the northwest. Back then, many visitors came—tea pickers, buyers, sightseers—and my inn thrived. But then, for some reason, the plantation owner stopped cultivating tea. After it closed, the area grew quieter, though not as desolate as now. But three months ago—no, wait, six months ago... several villagers died..."

At the mention of death, Qin Xiang and Qin Shuang’s expressions changed. Qin Shuang glanced at Qin Xiang, then at Qin Guan. Perhaps finding Qin Guan’s calm demeanor reassuring, she moved from her seat to sit beside her on the long bench, pressing close. Worried Qin Guan might mind, she relaxed only when no objection came.

"People died?" Qin Yan frowned, his sensitivity heightened by recent events at Qin Manor.Wei Changfu nodded and sighed again. "Exactly, and all the dead were young people who had no serious illnesses before. A few days before their deaths, they suddenly developed pox-like sores. They went to see the village doctor but died while still taking medicine. One or two deaths might be dismissed, but as more people died, rumors spread. Some said Sanyuan Village was cursed, others claimed there was an epidemic. All sorts of theories circulated, and eventually, no one came near this area anymore."

Pausing briefly, Wei Changfu seemed to open up. "This matter spread widely north of Wild Goose River. People within Yuanzhou territory basically dared not come here, and visitors from other places gradually dwindled too. Many villagers believed the deaths were caused by too many outsiders bringing disease or misfortune, so they grew increasingly hostile toward strangers."

"My inn only accommodates occasional travelers passing through. To ward off disaster, I even hired a Taoist priest to perform rituals here. Guests, don't underestimate these talismans—they cost me a considerable sum. So far, neither I nor any of my guests have fallen ill, so I believe these charms must be working..."

"You mentioned people died half a year ago. What happened afterward?" Qin Guan pressed.

At this, Wei Changfu relaxed slightly. "Many claimed it was an epidemic. Later, government officials came, followed by some folk physicians. Some denied it was plague, others insisted it was. Then one or two more people died, but ultimately no conclusion was reached. When the officials withdrew and the spectators left, four months ago... two more people died."

His words sent a chill through everyone present. But this time Wei Changfu added, "However, the cause was finally identified. A physician surnamed Sun came to the village and miraculously cured someone on the verge of death. That Dr. Sun was hailed as a living bodhisattva. He lives west of Goddess Peak. Since his arrival two months ago, no more deaths have occurred—though people remain uneasy, still blaming outsiders for bringing misfortune."

"Dr. Sun?" Qin Guan frowned slightly. "Do you know his full name?"

Wei Changfu shook his head. "How would I? I've never even seen him, only heard stories. He's rather eccentric—makes house calls only at dawn, never charges for medicine. When cured patients try to thank him with gifts, he refuses everything. They say he came from elsewhere to treat his ailing wife."

Qin Guan asked no further questions. Wei Changfu sighed again. "Though the deaths stopped, this village still feels ill-omened. My business grows harder by the day. Truth be told, you're the first sizable group of guests I've seen in ages."

Qin Yan remarked, "But you only have three rooms left?"

His tone implied the inn was nearly full.

Wei Changfu looked uncomfortable and forced a smile. "Originally there were over ten guest rooms. But maintaining them required staff. As visitors dwindled, I had to let workers go. Some rooms became storage, others were locked up. Now... only four remain habitable."Qin Yan couldn't help but laugh bitterly upon hearing this—it turned out only one person was staying in this inn.

Wei Changfu rubbed his hands sheepishly, glanced toward the backyard, then frowned. "Speaking of which, the guest in Room One still hasn't returned. Who knows what he's out doing at this hour."

Qin Yan raised an eyebrow. "So late, and he dares to go out?"

Wei Changfu grew uneasy at Qin Yan's words. "Well... that guest is also a young man. He's stayed here for two nights now, leaving early and returning late each day. No idea what he's up to."

Since they were complete strangers, Qin Yan didn't press further. Just then, Fuling approached from the backyard and said, "Miss, the room is ready—"

Hearing this, Qin Yan stood up. "Alright, I'll see you to your rest."

Wei Changfu hurriedly rose to see them off. "If anything's amiss, just send word, young master."

Qin Yan nodded and led Qin Guan and the others toward the back. Soon they arrived before Room Three. After ushering them inside and confirming everything was properly arranged, he turned and said quietly, "This village is strange, and the innkeeper's words aren't entirely trustworthy. We won't stay long since we're in a hurry. Rest well tonight—don't be afraid. I'll post guards outside. We'll leave at first light tomorrow." He paused, then added, "Also, don't drink the water here anymore. I suspect it might be plague."

Qin Shuang's expression shifted several times. "Third Brother is very thoughtful. I also feel something's off—best to leave early."

Qin Yan smiled at Qin Shuang, gave a few more instructions, then left. On the table were snacks brought from their carriage. Besides the original bed in the room, the newly added smaller bed was adequate for sleeping, both covered with the clean brocade quilts they'd brought along—far more comfortable than resting in the carriage.

"Alright, eat something quickly and rest early," Qin Shuang said, being the first to grab some pastries. The servants busied themselves preparing the beds, and with more people, the room felt livelier. Though not hungry, Qin Guan also ate a little. Only Qin Xiang went straight to bed without eating. Shortly after, Qin Guan and Qin Shuang also retired, while Fuling and the others spread bedding on the floor.

Though Qin Guan's face showed little sign of fatigue from the journey, her body was utterly exhausted.

The moment her head touched the pillow, sleep overtook her. In her drowsy state, her thoughts drifted to the strange happenings in Sanyuan Village.

While it was true that young people could sometimes die suddenly from illnesses with no obvious cause, several deaths at once seemed too coincidental. And all with pox-like sores—it made her think of venereal disease, but that wouldn't kill so quickly. If it were an epidemic, it wouldn't appear in such a small cluster. Then there was that Doctor Sun—was his surname a coincidence or...?

Qin Guan instinctively wanted to investigate, but she was too tired, and they'd be leaving first thing tomorrow anyway—no time for deeper inquiry. Resigned, she let herself fall asleep.

She didn't know how long she'd slept when, in her groggy state, she suddenly heard commotion outside the door. Always alert, she snapped awake immediately. Listening carefully, she confirmed it—there was indeed a loud disturbance in the courtyard outside.

"How dare you! Speak—"

"Denying it?! Do you know who you're talking to?!""You don't live in the back, what were you doing there?!"

Qin Guan clearly heard the shouts of the Qin Manor guards. Though she couldn't hear the voice of the person being questioned, the exchange suggested someone had broken in...

Qin Guan immediately sat up. She had been lying down fully clothed, so she only needed to put on her outer robe. Her movement woke the others, and Qin Shuang asked groggily, "What's happening?!"

"Not sure yet, probably someone trespassing."

After this brief explanation, Qin Guan threw on her cape and prepared to investigate. Seeing this, Qin Shuang hurriedly dressed to follow. Throughout their journey, she'd found herself increasingly drawn to accompanying Qin Guan. Meanwhile, Qin Xiang seemed to regain some energy upon hearing about possible intruders and quickly dressed as well. Staying in this eerie village with an untrustworthy innkeeper made them cautious—even with guards outside, they couldn't be too careful.

Wan Xing lit a lamp. Watching Qin Guan tie up her hair and head out, she and Fuling followed suit.

The single-story inn placed their room at the very end, with Qin Yan and the servants lodged nearer the entrance. Stepping outside, Qin Guan winced as icy air stung her face. Pausing, she first noticed the courtyard's magically accumulated snow. Though the sky was pitch black, the corridor lanterns revealed thick snowflakes swirling down—her heart sank instantly.

Though currently only two fingers deep, the relentless snowfall left no doubt: this would become a journey-halting blizzard. Their worst fear had materialized.

"Ah! It's snowing—" Qin Shuang exclaimed upon exiting, her sleepiness vanishing as if the danger was forgotten.

Ignoring her, Qin Guan turned toward the commotion in the main hall. As snow whirled and bitter wind howled, she instinctively tightened her cape collar. Nearing the source, she realized the altercation wasn't in the hall but outside Room No. 1. Qin Yan stood with his back to her, several guards restraining a man whose face remained obscured.

Qin Guan hurried forward. "Third Brother, what happened?"

Qin Yan turned, frowning slightly at their arrival. "This man was caught heading toward your quarters at night. He denies any wrongdoing despite being apprehended."

Frowning, Qin Guan stepped beside Qin Yan—and in that instant, both she and the restrained man recognized each other.

"Miss Qin! How can it be you?!"