Coroner's Diary

"Senior brother, senior brother, the friends I mentioned are in that house!"

At the familiar voice, Qin Guan and Qin Yan immediately exchanged glances. Qin Guan turned and took a few steps toward the main hall entrance. Moving forward, she immediately spotted two figures standing at the courtyard gate—

Beneath the simple lintel of the courtyard gate stood a jade-like figure in white robes. Amidst the frozen, snow-covered landscape, the newcomer's refined demeanor and picturesque features made him appear like a celestial deity descended from the heavens. A flicker of surprise crossed Qin Guan's eyes—she never expected to encounter such a person in this remote village. Perhaps her gaze was too intense, for soon the newcomer turned to look at her. When their eyes met, Qin Guan's heart softened inexplicably, moved by the profound compassion in his gaze. Recalling the villagers' earlier address, she instantly realized his identity.

Yet soon, Qin Guan's brows furrowed. While she didn't recognize this "Divine Doctor Sun," she knew the person standing behind him all too well. Watching Sun Muqing's concerned gaze scanning the scene, Qin Guan's doubts grew. If she hadn't misheard, Sun Muqing had just called this "Divine Doctor Sun" his senior brother?!

Though the late Shen Guan had studied under Sun Xi in Medicine King Valley, her time there had been brief, and she'd met only a handful of people. She had certainly never encountered this celestial figure before.

"Miss Qin—"

Qin Guan turned to Sun Muqing, who was already waving at her. "Miss Qin, don't be afraid! My senior brother will explain things to the Village Chief—"

Sun Muqing's loud shout naturally reached Huang Wenshan's ears. The Village Chief glanced at Qin Guan, then turned back with a questioning look. "Divine Doctor Sun, last night, Old Woman Feng's granddaughter passed away. These people arrived in the village yesterday evening. We suspect they brought misfortune upon us and wish for them to leave promptly."

The man addressed as Divine Doctor Sun swept a glance toward Qin Guan before replying calmly, "The Feng family's granddaughter suffered from consumption. Her death has no connection to them. The Village Chief has misunderstood."

His voice, though soft, carried an inexplicable solemnity and compassion. The Village Chief hesitated before responding, "But... but nothing unfortunate has happened in our village for so long."

The man nodded. "I understand your concerns. I've come to take them to my humble abode, so they won't remain in the village. With this heavy snowfall today, Village Chief, you and the others should return home early."

Though his tone held little inflection, it inexplicably soothed the heart.

Huang Wenshan blinked in surprise. "Divine Doctor Sun is taking them to the Herb Garden?"

At this question, the man nodded. "Indeed. They are friends of my junior brother."

Understanding dawned in Huang Wenshan's eyes. He studied the man for a moment, then turned to Qin Guan and bowed apologetically. "Forgive our offense—we didn't realize you were friends of Divine Doctor Sun."

With that, he bowed to the man again and waved his hand. "Everyone, disperse and return home."At the command, Huang Wenshan led the villagers to retreat like a receding tide. Once they were gone, the courtyard instantly became empty, leaving only the auspicious snow trampled into mud. Sun Muqing's face lit up with joy as he gratefully glanced at the man before striding into the courtyard. The guards of Qin Manor had already stepped aside, and Qin Yan and Qin Guan emerged.

"Miss Qin, Third Young Master Qin, are you both alright?"

Sun Muqing asked urgently. Qin Yan stepped forward and shook his head, "We're fine. Thank you, Young Master Sun. But who is this...?"

As Qin Yan inquired, Sun Muqing seemed to suddenly remember and turned to look at the man at the courtyard entrance. The man, who had remained still, now took a few steps forward to stand beside Sun Muqing and nodded slightly to the group. "I am Sun Haoyue."

Upon hearing the name, Qin Guan couldn't help but think how fitting it was to the man's demeanor. Meanwhile, Sun Muqing excitedly continued, "Miss Qin and Young Master Qin, you wouldn't believe the coincidence! I originally came to this village to investigate the illness here, but after two days of inquiries with no results, I heard that a Divine Doctor Sun had arrived and cured many. I thought to visit this miracle doctor—you know, Miss Qin, since leaving Lianzhou, I've been traveling to seek out renowned physicians, either to learn from them or to invite them to Medicine King Valley."

"I wanted to see what made this doctor so remarkable and also ask about the illness affecting the villagers. But when I reached the foot of Goddess Peak, I discovered that this miracle doctor was actually an old acquaintance of mine."

With that, Sun Muqing glanced at Sun Haoyue. "Senior Brother Haoyue is eight years older than me, one of Master's earliest disciples. After he completed his studies and left the mountain, we hadn't seen each other for many years. I never imagined we'd meet here of all places."

Sun Muqing's expression was full of excitement, while Sun Haoyue gave a faint smile. Qin Yan quickly said, "Destiny brings people together across great distances. It was fate that we met Young Master Sun, just as it was fate for you to reunite with Divine Doctor Sun."

Sun Muqing nodded eagerly. "Exactly, exactly! Senior Brother Haoyue arrived at Cloud Mist Mountain half a year ago and bought a residence at the foot of Goddess Peak for his wife's recuperation. Young Master Qin, Miss Qin, we came to invite you to stay with us at his place. This inn isn't warm, and there's no proper food. Who knows how long this snow will last? It's not far from here to Goddess Peak—just an hour's journey. Please don't refuse, Young Master Qin and Miss Qin—"

Earlier, Sun Haoyue had mentioned taking Qin Yan and the others away, and Qin Yan had been about to ask when Sun Muqing explained it himself.

Qin Yan hesitated. "This is too much trouble... There are so many of us..."

Sun Muqing looked at Sun Haoyue and smiled. "It's no trouble at all. Senior Brother bought a large estate, and currently, only he, his wife, and a few servants live there. Even with your group, it won't be crowded. Who knows how long this snow will continue? Staying here is hardly suitable. If I hadn't met Senior Brother, that would be one thing, but now that we have, how could I let Young Master Qin and Miss Qin go hungry and cold?"

Sun Muqing spoke earnestly. Qin Yan hesitated, glancing between Sun Muqing and Sun Haoyue.

Sun Haoyue nodded. "Please, everyone, come without hesitation."It was clear that Sun Haoyue wasn't much of a talker, so Qin Yan turned his gaze to Qin Guan. Qin Guan frowned slightly and sighed while looking at Sun Muqing. Naturally, she trusted Sun Muqing, and this Sun Haoyue was actually their senior brother who ranked above them—undoubtedly a master of medicine. Though Qin Guan no longer saw herself as Shen Guan and had severed the bond of seniority with Sun Muqing, she regarded Sun Haoyue as a senior in the medical field. First, she felt admiration, then trust.

"Let Third Brother decide," Qin Guan said, thinking that if Qin Yan chose not to go, she wouldn't argue.

After learning of Sun Muqing's identity the previous night, Qin Yan had already been eager to befriend him, let alone now that another direct disciple of Medicine King Valley had arrived. After a brief moment of consideration, Qin Yan made his decision. "Very well, then we'll trouble Divine Doctor Sun and Young Master Sun."

Hearing this, Sun Muqing immediately beamed. "Wonderful, wonderful! There's no trouble at all! Miss Qin and I merely met by chance, yet she generously helped me. Now I'm just returning the favor."

Qin Guan had only given Sun Muqing some travel expenses, but Sun Muqing had provided all of them with a new place to stay—this was far beyond a simple exchange of favors. In comparison, Sun Muqing had repaid her with jade.

Qin Yan clasped his hands in gratitude. "My ninth sister merely gave Young Master Sun some travel funds, yet you and Divine Doctor Sun have helped us so greatly. I am truly grateful. I am determined to be friends with both of you."

Sun Muqing laughed heartily. "Good, good! Friends it is—"

Then he added, "The estate my senior brother bought is now called Herb Garden. There's a large abandoned garden that belonged to the previous owner, now planted with medicinal herbs. It's at the foot of Goddess Peak to the west. With today's heavy snow, it'll take about an hour to get there. On a clear day, it would only take a little over half an hour."

Glancing at the sky, Sun Muqing continued, "Before the snow gets too deep, Young Master Qin, let's gather everyone and set off."

Qin Yan nodded and cupped his hands in acknowledgment. As he turned, he noticed Wei Changfu standing to the side, looking awkward. Qin Yan narrowed his eyes but ignored him, instead instructing Zhou Huai, who promptly organized everyone to prepare the carriages for departure. Inside the guest rooms, maids packed food boxes, brocade quilts, and other necessities onto the carriages. Even Qin Xiang, who had been bedridden, was dressed and ready to leave. Sun Muqing and Sun Haoyue waited at the main hall entrance until the Qin family's carriage procession was fully prepared before heading out.

At the intersection outside the courtyard gate, a small blue-canopied carriage was waiting—apparently, Sun Muqing and Sun Haoyue had also arrived by carriage. Standing outside, Sun Muqing called to Qin Yan at the rear, "Young Master Qin, just follow us."

Qin Yan acknowledged with a "Yes," and only then did Sun Muqing and Sun Haoyue board their carriage. The wheels rolled forward slowly due to the thick snow on the ground. Even so, the Qin family's convoy gradually left Changfu Inn's courtyard and headed west.Leaving the village along the main street of Sanyuan Village, they soon took the westward mountain path—a narrow trail barely wide enough for a single carriage. Towering verdant trees lined both sides of the road, their lush greenery contrasting with the white snow, cold winds, and dark clouds. Qin Guan lifted the carriage curtain to gaze outside. Though the chill was biting, the wintry mountain scenery before her eyes was breathtaking, instantly lifting her spirits.

Sun Muqing had estimated an hour's journey, but it actually took an hour and a half to reach the Herb Garden.

Peering out the carriage window, Qin Guan first saw a vast expanse of lush bamboo forest climbing the mountainside. Soon after, a black-tiled, white-walled estate came into view, nestled halfway up the slope. Its undulating rows of upturned eaves suggested this was no ordinary residence—no wonder Sun Muqing had said even the entire Qin family could comfortably stay here. Qin Guan took a shallow breath, the crisp scent of bamboo mingling with the icy freshness of snow, calming her heart. As the estate drew nearer, her mind grew even more serene. No wonder Sun Haoyue had purchased this place—even she felt the urge to retreat from worldly affairs and live in seclusion here...

When the carriage stopped, the wind died down as well. The moment Qin Guan stepped out, she felt enveloped in an intangible tranquility. The estate seemed ancient, its roof tiles thick with moss, yet it exuded an otherworldly detachment, as if untouched by mortal concerns.

"We're here—drive the carriage straight inside!" Sun Muqing called out as he alighted from the lead carriage, a simple blue-canopied one. Out of courtesy, Qin Yan and the others still disembarked. At the gate of the timeworn estate, the words "Herb Garden" were boldly inscribed on the lintel. Sun Haoyue had already stepped down and stood to the side, where an elderly white-haired servant awaited them.

"Dong Shu, these are my friends. Please help arrange their accommodations."

The old servant, clad in a gray cotton robe, was hunched with age, his face deeply lined. His eyes crinkled into mere slits as he smiled and nodded. "Very well, very well. Rest assured, Young Master."

Sun Muqing nodded and approached Qin Guan, while Sun Haoyue turned to Dong Shu. "How is my wife?"

Dong Shu immediately replied, "She's well, very well."

Hearing this, Sun Haoyue faced Qin Yan and the others. "Young Master Qin, Muqing and Dong Shu will handle everything here. My wife is gravely ill and cannot be left alone, so I must attend to her now."

Qin Yan quickly responded, "Of course, Divine Doctor Sun. We appreciate your hospitality."

Sun Haoyue waved dismissively and hurried inside.

Fuling, standing beside Qin Guan, whispered, "Miss, if Divine Doctor Sun is a miracle doctor, why is his wife still so ill? Can even he not cure her?"

Qin Guan sighed but dared not question her senior brother. "Even miracle doctors cannot cure all ailments. Some illnesses are slow to heal, while others defy even the gods' remedies."

Fuling sighed. "Perhaps... perhaps you could take a look, Miss?"

Qin Guan gave a wry smile. "Do you know how formidable the direct disciples of Medicine King Valley are? How could I presume to show off before them?"It wasn't that Qin Guan looked down on herself, but rather that she had seen too much during her medical studies in Medicine King Valley. The direct disciples of the Sun family had studied pharmacology since childhood, far surpassing latecomers like her in knowledge. Whether it was pharmacology, the Needle Sutra, or pulse theory, the direct disciples were vastly more erudite—something that no amount of diligent study could bridge for those who came later.

Fuling realized she had underestimated Sun Muqing and the others and quickly ducked her head, refraining from further careless remarks.

Meanwhile, Dong Shu had already ushered the Qin family's carriages one by one through the courtyard gate. Sun Muqing then said, "Everyone, follow me inside. Please make yourselves at home..."

As he spoke, Qin Guan entered alongside Qin Yan.

Sun Muqing had mentioned that this residence was newly purchased by Sun Haoyue. Because of this, upon entering, one could immediately see a wall of deep green vines sprawling wildly across the white walls. Without long-term, meticulous care, the vines had grown unchecked, forming a dense, tangled mass. Though the greenery was fresh at first, as the vibrant green turned mottled and overgrown, it gave off a desolate, oppressive feeling.

After passing the spirit wall, they entered the central courtyard. Qin Guan wasn't sure how many sections the compound had, but she noticed the interconnected corridors branching out on both sides. Sun Muqing stood waiting for Dong Shu, somewhat embarrassed as he admitted, "I've only been here once before..."

Since Sun Muqing was also unfamiliar with the layout, Qin Yan stayed to chat with him. "Divine Doctor Sun mentioned earlier that his wife is seriously ill. Do you know what illness she has?"

Sun Muqing sighed at the question. "I'm not sure. My senior brother didn't say. It's likely an illness requiring quiet recuperation—otherwise, they wouldn't have moved here. It's been four or five years since I last saw him. I vaguely heard he had gone south, so I assumed he was in Yongzhou or Huzhou."

Qin Yan's gaze flickered slightly. "I see. Divine Doctor Sun must care deeply for Madam Sun. Earlier, I noticed how concerned and anxious he seemed."

Hearing this, Sun Muqing chuckled. "You might not know this, Young Master Qin, but my senior brother and his wife grew up together. They married when they were about my age. Madam Sun is from the Bai family of Yizhou—she and my senior brother were an enviable couple, admired by all. Who would have thought she'd fall ill? But... with my senior brother's expertise, he’ll surely cure her!"

"Of course, of course—"

Qin Yan nodded in agreement before adding, "Divine Doctor Sun has a heart of compassion. He and Madam Sun will surely be rewarded for their kindness. I initially thought he treated the villagers in Sanyuan Village because it was nearby, but it turns out the journey is quite long."

Sun Muqing sighed again. "Yes, I didn’t expect it either."

Qin Guan had woken up late, and after further delays and a long journey, dusk had already fallen. By the time they finished speaking, Dong Shu had arranged the Qin Manor's carriages and directed the family's guards to two outer courtyards before approaching Sun Muqing and the others. "Young Master, the courtyards are all prepared."

Sun Muqing smiled warmly. "Thank you, Dong Shu. After so long apart, the first thing I do is trouble you."

Dong Shu's eyes crinkled with a grin. "No trouble at all. This old servant hasn’t seen you in ages—I’m overjoyed. Since these are your friends, of course we must treat them well."

With that, Dong Shu gestured politely. "Friends of the young master, please come this way—"Dong Shu walked slightly hunched at the front, moving slowly. Behind him, Qin Yan also slowed his pace, eyeing Sun Muqing suspiciously. "Cousin?" he asked.

Sun Muqing smiled. "The Sun family shares the same lineage. Although Haoyue and I are beyond the five degrees of mourning, we're still of the same bloodline. That's why the servants usually address us this way."

Qin Yan nodded in understanding as Dong Shu led the group westward from the main gate.

As they walked, Dong Shu explained, "This residence was purchased long ago but hasn't been properly maintained. Please forgive any shortcomings you may notice. The heavy snowfall last night left much of the grounds uncleared..."

Qin Shuang, who had been following behind Qin Guan without intending to speak, suddenly chimed in with a laugh, "It's better left uncleared—we can make snow dolls!"

Dong Shu's smile deepened. "Young miss, be careful not to freeze your hands."

Qin Shuang quickly assured him, "I won't, I won't!" Dong Shu continued, "Many rooms in the estate haven't been prepared, as we didn't expect guests. Only these western quarters were kept spacious and bright."

Sun Muqing asked eagerly, "Where does Haoyue live?"

"In the east. The East Courtyard has a plum grove—the madam enjoys that area, and it's very tranquil."

Dong Shu gestured ahead. "This way, please—"

Qin Guan glanced eastward but saw only snow-covered rooftops stretching endlessly. Though the architecture was exquisite and grand, the overwhelming whiteness reminded her of the funeral flowers in Jiang Shi's ancestral hall.

After a short walk along the covered corridor, they reached several courtyards. Dong Shu stopped. "The madam requires quiet for her recuperation, so we keep few servants here. Each of these three courtyards has two side rooms. If you need anything, find me at the small courtyard with wintersweet by the entrance." He pointed, then added, "Dinner will be brought to you shortly."

Sun Muqing nodded. "Dong Shu, won't Haoyue be joining us for dinner?"

Dong Shu shook his head. "It's getting late. The young master must attend to the madam." He bowed slightly to Qin Yan and the others. "My apologies for any impropriety."

Qin Yan waved his hands. "Not at all! We're the ones imposing. Please don't disrupt the household routines on our account—we'd feel terrible if we disturbed the madam's recovery."

Dong Shu smiled reassuringly and glanced at the darkening sky. "Night approaches, and the courtyards remain unswept. Please don't wander after dark."

Qin Yan quickly agreed. With a light cough, Dong Shu turned and left.

Once he was gone, Sun Muqing cheerfully pointed to the nearby courtyards. "Our quarters are adjacent. How would you like to arrange yourselves?"

Naturally, Qin Yan would stay with Zhou Huai, leaving the three sisters with two courtyards. Qin Xiang still seemed listless, while Qin Shuang immediately declared, "I'll stay with Ninth Sister!"

This might have been the first time Qin Shuang had sincerely called Qin Guan "Ninth Sister." Fuling's eyebrows lifted slightly. Qin Yan looked to Qin Guan, who nodded. "Whatever works."

Qin Yan smiled and turned to Qin Xiang. "Fifth Sister, will you be alright alone?"

Qin Xiang gave a frail, Xi Shi-like smile. "Of course."

"Good. Then you should all settle in now—"The group nodded and each entered a courtyard. Sun Muqing craned his neck to look at Qin Guan, seemingly wanting to follow her inside. However, remembering that Qin Guan was after all a young lady, his gaze shifted to Qin Yan. "Young Master Qin, let me accompany you inside for a look," he said.

Qin Yan naturally agreed readily, and soon the two walked through the courtyard gate together.

Since Qin Shuang wanted to stay with Qin Guan, and there were two side rooms available, Qin Guan didn’t mind. Upon entering the courtyard, she even let Qin Shuang choose first. Qin Shuang picked one casually and went inside with Wan Qing and Xiu Yun. Meanwhile, Qin Guan, accompanied by Fuling and Wan Xing, pushed open the door to the other room. The interior was more elegant than she had expected, though it was clear no one had lived there for a long time—the room carried a faint musty dampness.

"Miss, why did Divine Doctor Sun buy such a large estate?" Fuling asked curiously as she set down their belongings. "This place is enormous, yet only a few people live here. Doesn’t it feel eerie?"

Qin Guan walked to the side and opened the window. Though the cold wind outside was biting, it helped disperse the musty smell in the room. "This residence is quite large, but the ambiance here is excellent. It should be quite suitable for Madam Sun to recuperate."

Fuling frowned slightly. "Shouldn't one seek a lively place for recuperation? This house feels so empty, and the rooms have a moldy smell. I don’t think it’s suitable for a patient."

Qin Guan chuckled. "It’s only like this because no one has lived here for a long time. The east side definitely won’t be the same."

Fuling thought for a moment and seemed to find Qin Guan’s reasoning sound, so she smiled and said, "Then I must have overthought it. Perhaps Madam Sun simply dislikes noise."

Qin Guan nodded. "Exactly—"

Just as she spoke, Sun Muqing’s voice suddenly sounded at the courtyard gate. "Ninth Miss? May I come in?"

Hearing this, Qin Guan quickly walked to the door and saw Sun Muqing standing at the entrance, holding something and peering in. Qin Guan hurriedly said, "Young Master Sun, please come in—"

As soon as she finished speaking, Sun Muqing entered carrying a charcoal brazier. "Ninth Miss, this room doesn’t have underfloor heating, so let’s make do with this brazier for now to keep you from freezing."

The snow in the courtyard had already been cleared, showing that Dong Shu had put in considerable effort to welcome them. Seeing Sun Muqing’s thoughtfulness, Qin Guan felt deeply moved, and memories of the past suddenly flooded her mind.

"Ninth Miss, if there’s anything else you need in the room, just let me know…"

Sun Muqing bustled about, happy to run errands. Watching him, Qin Guan curved her lips slightly. "There’s no need. Young Master Sun, you should rest too."

Sun Muqing cheerfully agreed and quickly turned to leave. Once he was gone, Fuling laughed. "Young Master Sun is really something! The young lady only gave him some travel money, yet he’s repaying us tenfold!"

Qin Guan stood by the window, watching until Sun Muqing’s figure disappeared beyond the courtyard gate. A sudden pang of melancholy rose in her heart. Sun Muqing was the most genuine person she had ever met, and he remained so even now. Counting the days, it had already been three months since the incident with the Shen family. Did he know that Shen Wan was dead?

A dull ache spread through Qin Guan’s chest, but she silently shook her head.

Not only was returning from death and borrowing another’s body something she herself could hardly believe, but the path she had to walk now was one she preferred to tread alone. This was a road that could only be traveled in darkness, and until she saw the light, she had to journey by herself.

"Young lady… everything’s ready. Would you like to rest for a while?"

Fuling walked over and closed the window in front of Qin Guan. "It’s so cold outside. Aren’t you afraid of catching a chill?"

Qin Guan snapped out of her thoughts. Fuling added, "This place is much better than that inn. We really owe Young Master Sun our thanks this time."

Qin Guan gave a wry smile. Just then, footsteps sounded outside again—it was Qin Yan knocking at the door. "Ninth Sister?"

Fuling hurried to open the door. As soon as it opened, Qin Yan said, "Ninth Sister, even though Divine Doctor Sun won’t be joining us for dinner, the rest of us should still eat together. Including Young Master Sun. What do you think?"

Qin Guan nodded. "As Third Brother arranges—"

Qin Yan smiled. Hearing the commotion, Qin Shuang also stepped out of her room. "Are we eating together? Where?"Qin Shuang was rather impulsive, but Qin Yan didn't seem to mind. "They're at my place."

Thus, the three siblings moved to Qin Yan's courtyard. Upon entering the room, dinner was already laid out—seven or eight hot dishes, both meat and vegetable, presented quite appealingly. Sun Muqing and Qin Xiang were already there. Seeing them arrive, Sun Muqing hurried forward to greet them. "Ninth Miss—"

Qin Guan nodded at him, and everyone took their seats. There was no wine on the table, so Sun Muqing raised his tea cup as a substitute. "I am Sun Muqing, honored to make the acquaintance of Young Master Qin, Miss Qin, and the two young ladies. It may seem somewhat abrupt, but I have yet to ask for the names of Miss Qin and the two young ladies—"

Sun Muqing had seen Qin Guan at Jiang Shi's funeral, knowing only that she was a young lady of Qin Manor, addressed by others as Ninth Miss, but unaware of her actual name. The same went for Qin Shuang and Qin Xiang. Not only had he helped them greatly, but he was also someone Qin Yan intended to befriend. Moreover, they would be spending the next two days together, so knowing their names was only natural.

"I'm Qin Shuang, ranked sixth in the Qin clan."

Qin Shuang was the first to speak. Qin Xiang then said softly, "Qin Xiang, ranked ninth in the Qin clan."

After both had introduced themselves, only Qin Guan remained. Just as she was about to speak, Qin Shuang cut in first, "This is our ninth younger sister, Qin Guan—"

Sun Muqing had been listening earnestly, but at this moment, his brows twitched. "Qin... Guan? May I ask which 'Guan' that is?"

Qin Shuang giggled. "The 'Guan' from 'a faint smile'!"

Sun Muqing stared blankly at Qin Guan, his expression shifting visibly. Never one to hide his emotions well, the change was even more pronounced now. Qin Yan and the others were slightly taken aback, while Qin Guan feigned mild confusion. "Young Master Sun, is something the matter?"

Sun Muqing remained dazed for another moment before snapping out of it. Then, lowering his eyes, he chuckled softly. "How impolite of me. It's just... Ninth Miss's name is the same as that of a junior sister of mine. It reminded me of her for a moment."

After a pause, Sun Muqing forced another smile. "But... but there are many people in the world who share the same name, let alone just the given name. I meant nothing by it. Please forgive me, Ninth Miss..."

Bitter sorrow surged silently in Qin Guan's heart, but her expression remained unchanged. She merely shook her head calmly.

Meanwhile, Qin Shuang exclaimed in surprise, "It's actually the same name? Hers isn't a common one. Young Master Sun, where is your junior sister now?"

At this question, Qin Guan's hands clenched on her lap, and Sun Muqing's expression shifted again.

Slowly setting down his teacup, the pure cheerfulness about him vanished in an instant, replaced by a heavy shadow that seemed to envelop him. "She... she has already passed away..."

"Ah—" Qin Shuang gasped softly, not expecting such an answer. Now both curious and apologetic, she asked, "How... was it... an illness?"

Sun Muqing gave a bitter smile, lowering his gaze and shaking his head. In that moment, he seemed to transform from a simple, carefree youth into a sorrowful, aged man weighed down by grief. "No, she was in good health. She... her family was wronged."

Qin Shuang widened her eyes, unsure how to continue the questioning, and was affected by the grief emanating from Sun Muqing, momentarily at a loss for words. Qin Xiang seemed thoughtful but remained reservedly silent. Only Qin Yan, sensitive to the key point, pressed further.

"Wronged? Was your junior sister from an official household? May I ask, Young Master Sun, where was she from?"Sun Muqing had always been unguarded with people, especially since he didn't know Qin Yan's true identity. With a sigh, he said, "She was from an official household. Her father held a high position yet remained incorruptible. She... she was from the capital."

The capital... Qin Yan's eyes narrowed slightly.

During this journey home, the usual Qin Yan had merely seemed like a thoughtful elder brother. But when it came to power struggles in the capital, his instincts became far sharper than most.

After a brief consideration, Qin Yan asked, "When did her family meet with misfortune? Are her parents still alive?"

Qin Guan knew Qin Yan was already piecing things together. Though she initially wanted to stop Sun Muqing from answering, she ultimately remained silent. True to form, Sun Muqing replied, "Three months ago. Both her parents are gone now. It was that wrongful—"

A flicker of understanding passed through Qin Yan's eyes, but he wisely avoided pressing for details, instead offering comfort: "Young Master Sun, please accept my condolences. Your junior sister's spirit would surely be comforted knowing how deeply you remember her."

Sun Muqing straightened his posture and exhaled deeply. "I know. My apologies—I shouldn't have brought this up and spoiled everyone's meal. Come, let's eat. Since my senior brother couldn't join us, I'll toast everyone with tea instead..."

After speaking, he raised his cup and drank. Though he forced a smile, attempting his usual carefree expression, Qin Guan thought his strained grin looked more painful than tears.

Another dull ache twisted in Qin Guan's heart.

This was their first proper meal in two days, yet Qin Guan barely tasted the food. Even as Sun Muqing changed the subject with a smile and the table grew lively with conversation, she couldn't shake the resentment and sorrow weighing on her.

By the time they finished eating, dusk had fallen. Outside, the howling wind had returned, and the heavy snowfall showed no signs of letting up. Fuling supported Qin Guan as they walked back to their courtyard. Gazing up at the sky, Qin Guan wondered—if this blizzard was delaying her return to the capital, did it also foretell another storm awaiting her there when she sought to uncover the truth about her father's case?

After sitting quietly for a while to compose herself, Qin Guan prepared to wash up and retire early—until a knock interrupted her. Fuling opened the door to find Qin Shuang standing there with a troubled expression. "Um... about that..."

Qin Shuang hesitated, her face tinged with embarrassment. Qin Guan approached, puzzled. "What's wrong?"

Meeting her eyes briefly before looking away, Qin Shuang mumbled, "I... my monthly courses have come. Do you have any... supplies?"

It took Qin Guan a moment to understand. She glanced at Fuling, who sighed. "My lady's cycle isn't due yet. Those items are still in the carriage."

Qin Shuang paled. "Then... what should I do? I can't soil their bedding."

Her pleading eyes turned to Qin Guan. "I... I thought I might go fetch them myself..."

Fuling immediately grasped her meaning—Qin Shuang wasn't asking to go alone, but for Qin Guan to accompany her. Clearing her throat, Fuling suggested, "Shall we ask the young master to send someone—"

"No!" Qin Shuang flushed crimson. "Third Brother is a man."

Realizing this wouldn't work, Fuling turned to Wan Qing, who had accompanied Qin Shuang. "Perhaps Wan Qing could go?"Before Wan Qing could speak, Qin Shuang quickly interjected, "No, Wan Qing is timid. I must accompany her..."

Fuling blinked, surprised by how protective Qin Shuang was of her maid, and couldn't help but feel a bit more favorable toward her. Seeing this, Qin Guan sighed. "Take the lantern from under the eaves. Let's all go together."

Though it was dark, with six of them going together, surely there was nothing to fear?

Qin Guan donned her cape while Fuling fetched the lantern. They opened the courtyard gate, and the six girls walked in two rows along the path toward the mansion gate. The entire estate remained unlit, the vast compound shrouded in darkness. Qin Guan finally understood the eerie feeling Fuling had described earlier. Even with so many of them, the six girls still walked nervously until they reached the carriages.

Qin Guan and Fuling stood to the side while Qin Shuang, Wan Qing, and Xiu Yun went to find their carriage. Soon, Wan Qing retrieved the item Qin Shuang needed, and the three hurried back. Qin Shuang grinned at Qin Guan.

The walk had been uneventful, and with the item now in hand, Qin Shuang relaxed. Noticing Qin Guan's composed demeanor, she suddenly pointed behind her and shouted, "Ah, a ghost—!"

Fuling shrieked and clung to Qin Guan, while Wan Xing instantly turned to look where Qin Shuang was pointing. Wan Qing also screamed in fright, and Xiu Yun tightly gripped Qin Shuang's arm.

Only Qin Guan remained unmoved, staring calmly at Qin Shuang.

"Miss, why would you do that...?" Wan Qing whimpered, realizing Qin Shuang had only been trying to scare them. Still, for that brief moment, they had been thoroughly frightened.

Frowning, Qin Shuang looked at Qin Guan, who hadn't flinched. "Ninth Sister, why aren't you scared at all?"

Qin Guan regarded her with amusement. "If there really were a ghost, you'd be the one screaming in terror—not shouting 'a ghost.' Besides, your first reaction wouldn't even let you distinguish whether it was a person or a ghost."

Qin Shuang rubbed her forehead. "I really... Ugh, never mind. I've never met anyone as fearless as you. Fine, let's go..."

Dejected, Qin Shuang motioned for Qin Guan to lead the way. Fuling gave Qin Shuang an exasperated look before tightening her grip on Qin Guan's arm and walking ahead. But after only a few steps, Qin Shuang suddenly screamed again from behind.

Fuling sighed. "Sixth Miss, you can't scare people twice in a row!"

Before she finished speaking, Wan Qing, walking behind them, abruptly grabbed Fuling's sleeve. Fuling paused, pulling Qin Guan to a stop as well. When Wan Qing tugged again, trembling, Fuling and Qin Guan sensed something was wrong and turned around.

As they turned, Qin Guan saw a figure standing ten paces away, silhouetted in the dim light.

The person's disheveled hair obscured their face, but through the strands, a pair of eyes gleamed, staring at them with eerie malice...