The wind howled and snow swirled violently. The alluring figure on horseback carried an air of unrestrained exuberance, his blazing red robe the most eye-catching splash of color amidst the bleak wintry scene. "Seventh Brother! I've been eagerly waiting for you for three days! Why are you so slow?"
As he spoke, horse and rider drew even closer, while Qin Shuang, who had been leaning out the carriage window, gasped sharply.
Though Qin Shuang hadn't encountered many men in her life, she'd seen those of humble handsomeness like Huo Ning and those of peerless beauty and noble bearing like Yan Chi. Even Qin Yan was an elegant, aristocratic gentleman. Yet the man before her now defied all her expectations. His jet-black hair was extraordinarily long, half loosely tied up with a white jade hairpin while the rest cascaded over his shoulders like satin. Such feminine locks would have been startling enough, but he was also dressed in a flowing red robe with wide sleeves...
Red—Qin Shuang had never seen a man wear red before.
Dazed, she found her gaze inexplicably drawn to the newcomer's face.
It was a face so beautiful it bordered on audacious. The angles of his features bore some resemblance to Yan Chi's, yet their temperaments were worlds apart. Yan Chi's imposing aura matched his ink-black robes—noble, proud, sharp-edged and unfathomable. This newcomer, though also possessing phoenix eyes, had longer, more upturned outer corners. His features lacked Yan Chi's chiseled severity; where Yan Chi's face seemed hewn by axe and blade, this man's appeared painted with ink wash—exquisite in its beauty yet carrying a bewitching quality Yan Chi lacked. Combined with his hair, longer even than Qin Guan's, and that flamboyant crimson robe, along with a frame far less straight and robust than Yan Chi's, Qin Shuang had initially mistaken the approaching rider for a woman.
His wide red sleeves billowed dramatically in the strong wind, scarlet hems dancing alongside ink-black tresses. Qin Shuang found herself momentarily transfixed. Her second brother had somewhat delicate features too, but compared to this man, the difference was like that between clouds and mud. This man's beauty carried not the slightest hint of femininity, instead exuding a wild, arrogant nobility. Though his presence couldn't match Yan Chi's, he effortlessly made Qin Yan, who had just stepped down from his carriage nearby, seem like just another ordinary nobleman.
With the three men standing together, Qin Shuang's gaze shifted between Yan Chi and the newcomer, making Qin Yan appear almost dim by comparison.
While the newcomer bubbled with excitement, Yan Chi remained far more composed, as if he'd long expected this meeting in Yuzhou. The corner of his mouth lifted slightly. "We were delayed in Yuanzhou for two days."
Turning toward the approaching Qin Yan, he added, "We happened to meet Qin Shizi and traveled together."
Qin Yan stepped forward and bowed. "Greetings to Prince Gong's Heir—"
Qin Shuang, still peering out the window, suddenly gaped in shock. She hastily drew back inside, letting the curtain fall as she turned to Qin Guan with disbelief. "Prince Gong's Heir..."
Qin Guan, who had also observed the scene from within the carriage, nodded in acknowledgment.
She hadn't finished reading yesterday's guest list and hadn't seen his name then, but Prince Yu's birthday celebration would naturally include Prince Gong's heir among its well-wishers.
Yan Li laughed heartily as he looked at Qin Yan. "Hey, why are you riding in a carriage instead of on horseback?"Qin Yan looked up with a bitter smile. "Caught a chill."
Yan Li's grin widened upon hearing this. Wielding his riding crop, he proceeded to mock Qin Yan relentlessly. "What happened to all that prowess when we raced horses and played cuju back in the capital? Useless fellow!"
His tone suggested a familiar camaraderie, and Qin Yan took no offense, merely replying with a smile, "My apologies for the poor showing, Your Highness."
Yan Li's amusement remained undiminished as his gaze swept over the carriages behind them. "And these are...?"
Qin Yan quickly explained, "I was on my way to Jinzhou to escort my three cousins to the capital. When we reached Yuanzhou, the family instructed me to attend the birthday celebrations, so I brought them along on the detour."
Yan Li made a sound of surprise. "So the carriages hold three young ladies of the Qin family?"
Qin Yan nodded and turned to say something to Zhou Huai. Soon, Zhou Huai approached the carriages where Qin Guan and Qin Shuang sat. "Sixth Miss, Ninth Miss, the Crown Prince requests your presence to greet Prince Gong's Heir..."
Qin Guan and Qin Shuang exchanged glances. While Qin Guan remained impassive, Qin Shuang hastily smoothed her dress. After delivering the message, Zhou Huai moved to Qin Xiang's carriage. Shortly after, all three Qin sisters emerged, draped in capes.
The snowstorm continued unabated. From horseback, Yan Li observed the three young women with a cheerful smile. Qin Xiang, in her pale lotus-colored cape, appeared delicate and frail. Qin Shuang, clad in purple, retained a hint of plumpness yet still carried a charming air. Qin Guan was the last to descend, and Yan Li's eyes brightened slightly at the sight of her.
Amid the howling wind and driving snow, Qin Guan wore a moon-white dress embroidered with hidden orchid patterns, over which lay a dark blue cape lined with white fox fur at the collar. Due to the cold, she had pulled up the hood upon exiting the carriage, which only accentuated the exquisite fairness of her petite face. Strangely, Yan Li sensed an unshakable composure about her, as if no storm could disturb her tranquility. Though she walked last among the three, she was the only one Yan Li truly saw.
Every step Qin Guan took exuded grace. Rather than obscuring her beauty, the tempest seemed to highlight her ethereal, orchid-like solitude. Her eyes were slightly lowered as she moved, yet her posture remained as straight and proud as bamboo.
"Greetings to the Crown Prince—"
Qin Xiang led the way, stopping a few paces from Yan Li to curtsy.
Qin Shuang and Qin Guan followed suit, also offering slight bows.
Yan Li laughed warmly. "No need for such formalities! Qin Shizi, hurry and let these young ladies return to their carriages. In weather like this, we wouldn't want them catching a chill. It would pain me to see such beauties suffer."
His tone was lighthearted, tinged with teasing. Qin Yan shook his head helplessly. "Very well, back you go."
As she turned, Qin Shuang gave a soft snort and quickened her steps to Qin Guan's side. "Why didn't he say that before we got out of the carriage? Only after we've walked all this way does he suddenly worry about us catching cold."
The corners of Qin Guan's lips lifted slightly, but she said nothing. She knew a thing or two about this Prince Gong's Heir.
Among the heirs of the various princes, his position was particularly awkward. Yet he showed no restraint, whether in the capital or beyond, his unrestrained words and actions giving the imperial clan constant headaches.Yan Chi was the Demon King who slaughtered gods on the Northwest Plateau, while this one was the notorious troublemaker of the capital.
Over here, Yan Li glanced between Yan Chi and Qin Yan, asking, "Seventh Brother and Crown Prince Qin, where do you plan to stay tonight?" Then, looking at Yan Chi, he added, "Prince Yu knew you were coming and had prepared accommodations, but when I went there, I wanted to drag Seventh Brother to stay with me, so I declined their arrangements. I just didn’t expect Crown Prince Qin to be coming along."
Yan Chi looked at Yan Li, "Where are you staying?"
Hearing this, Yan Li’s smile deepened, "Heavenly Fragrance Brothel—"
At the name, both Yan Chi and Qin Yan immediately knew what kind of place it was. Qin Yan merely smiled without comment, but Yan Chi frowned, "How can you still be so unrestrained even in Yuzhou? Aren’t you afraid the elders will reprimand you again?"
Yan Li chuckled, "They can’t control me in the capital, let alone Yuzhou?"
With a casual flick of his horsewhip, Yan Li continued, "If Crown Prince Qin had come alone, the three of us staying at the Heavenly Fragrance Brothel would’ve been perfect. But with the three Qin ladies here, it’s rather inconvenient."
Qin Yan smiled wryly, "Your Highness needn’t stand on ceremony. As long as you’re comfortable, we’ll stay at an inn."
A deeper amusement flashed in Yan Li’s eyes, "The Heavenly Fragrance Brothel recently has a new top courtesan, utterly delightful. What a pity Crown Prince Qin won’t have the fortune to meet her this time."
Qin Yan shook his head with a laugh, and Yan Li turned to Yan Chi, "Then Seventh Brother, come with me? The banquet is already prepared. It’s been so long since we last met—let’s drink ourselves senseless tonight and visit Prince Yu tomorrow."
Yan Chi’s frown deepened, "Since we’re here, we must pay our respects to Prince Yu tonight. It’s improper to delay until tomorrow." With that, he urged his horse forward, "You’re coming with me."
Yan Li immediately protested, "No, no! You know Prince Yu’s temperament—if we go tonight, we won’t be able to return to the Heavenly Fragrance Brothel! My Huatong is waiting for me..."
Yan Chi had no intention of further discussion. He simply glanced at Qin Yan, "Crown Prince Qin is staying at an inn?"
Qin Yan nodded, "Yes. We haven’t prepared gifts yet, so tomorrow we’ll arrange the congratulatory presents and visit a few of my father’s old acquaintances here. Your Highnesses may go ahead—no need for formalities."
Yan Chi nodded and said no more, "Very well, we’ll take our leave first."
They had originally planned to part ways upon entering the city, but Yan Li’s sudden appearance forced Yan Chi to drag him to Prince Yu’s residence instead of being pulled to the brothel. Qin Yan cupped his hands in salute, "Your Highnesses, take care."
Yan Chi acknowledged with a nod, his gaze briefly sweeping over the carriage behind him before flicking his horsewhip. Seeing Yan Chi’s unyielding stance, Yan Li quickly spurred his horse to catch up, "Ah, Seventh Brother... wait for me... let’s discuss this properly..."
Qin Yan stood for a moment longer, shaking his head with a quiet laugh before turning back. Zhou Huai hurried forward, "Crown Prince, shall we head straight to the inn?"
Qin Yan nodded and boarded the carriage. By the time the convoy began moving, Yan Chi and Yan Li were already out of sight. In the carriage behind, Qin Shuang sighed, "Prince Gong’s Heir is even more beautiful than a woman..."
After the time it took to drink a cup of tea, Qin Guan’s party entered Yuzhou City.After days of traveling, Qin Guan and her companions hadn't stopped in any bustling cities for quite some time. Entering Yuzhou City gave them the illusion of returning to Jinzhou. However, Yuzhou was already in the north—not only was the weather colder, but everything around them was different from Jinzhou. Yet, looking at the lively streets of Yuzhou, Qin Guan felt a faint sense of familiarity.
Night had already fallen, and the painted boats and taverns along the main street of Yuzhou were ablaze with brilliant lights. Despite the late hour, the city's liveliness hadn't diminished in the slightest. Qin Shuang lifted the carriage curtain and gazed outside, exclaiming, "How wonderful! The capital must be even more bustling than this. At this hour, are the streets there even more crowded?"
Her voice brimmed with longing. Qin Guan nodded. "Naturally, it's livelier there."
Qin Shuang blinked, her bright eyes reflecting the lanterns from the buildings. "If it's this lively here, just imagine the capital..."
The Great Zhou was vast in territory. Jinzhou lay to the south—though an important town, it paled slightly compared to cities closer to the imperial capital. Qin Shuang couldn't tear her eyes away and added, "Do you think, since we've already met Prince Gong's Heir, we might encounter other important figures? Maybe even a prince?"
Qin Guan chuckled. "Who knows? But with the New Year approaching, I doubt many will come."
Qin Shuang nodded, about to speak, when her eyes suddenly caught sight of a magnificent three-story building, its lights shining like a jade palace. "Look, what place is that? It looks just like the imperial palace!"
Having never been to the palace, she could only compare it to the grandest place she knew. Qin Guan glanced out the window and smiled faintly. "That might very well be our destination."
Qin Shuang gasped in disbelief. "Aren't we going to an inn?"
Qin Guan merely smiled without answering. After another short while, the Qin Manor carriage came to a stop before the jade-like building.
"Sixth Miss, Ninth Miss, we've arrived at the inn."
Qin Shuang stared at Qin Guan in astonishment. "Can you tell fortunes?"
Qin Guan laughed but didn't reply. She couldn't divine the future, but in her memories, this building had existed ten years ago. Only now, after a decade, the inn seemed to have expanded considerably, standing as the foremost inn in Yuzhou.
"This place is so grand and impressive!" Qin Shuang couldn't help but exclaim as soon as she stepped out.
Nearby, Qin Yan had just alighted as well and smiled at her words. "The Ten Directions Inn is one of the largest in the entire northwest. Its owner has branches in every major city in the west. This one in Yuzhou is the flagship, hence its exceptional size. The name signifies welcoming guests from all directions."
Qin Shuang was amazed. "Branches in every city in the west..."
As they spoke, Qin Xiang and Qin Guan also descended from the carriage. Zhou Huai entered the inn first, immediately noting its elegant and refined decor. Meanwhile, Qin Shuang stood to the side, listening as Zhou Huai paid—naturally, the sum was as lofty as the inn itself.
"Running an inn is already profitable. If the owner has so many, wouldn't that mean..."
Qin Shuang couldn't help murmuring. Qin Yan nodded with a smile. "The owner of this inn became one of the wealthiest in the west years ago."Qin Shuang sighed and nodded, casting a few more glances before finally suppressing her astonishment.
Compared to Qin Shuang, Qin Xiang was much more composed. Though the days of carriage travel had left her visibly weary, her earlier minor injuries had healed. Despite this, she still maintained a frail and sickly demeanor, rarely speaking unless necessary.
"Esteemed guests, please come upstairs—"
After Zhou Huai completed the formalities, the waiter enthusiastically led Qin Guan and the others upstairs. The inn had three floors, and the waiter explained, "Your rooms are on the third floor. The second floor houses a restaurant, so if you wish to dine, you may go downstairs."
Qin Shuang had never seen an inn with its own restaurant and couldn't help but marvel again. However, noticing that Qin Guan and Qin Yan remained unfazed, she lifted her chin slightly, pretending to be unimpressed.
Soon, they reached their rooms. Qin Yan then said, "Have Steward Zhou arrange a meal to be brought up. It's been days since we siblings shared a proper meal together. We'll gather in my room later."
Seeing that everyone was exhausted, Qin Yan made thoughtful arrangements.
Qin Guan first escorted Baiying to her room before returning to freshen up. After a brief rest, Zhou Huai knocked on the door—it was time for dinner.
True to its reputation as the best inn in Yuzhou, Ten Directions Inn provided spacious two-chamber rooms for each guest. When Qin Guan and her sisters arrived at Qin Yan's room, they found the table laden with dishes and wine—the finest meal they'd had in days.
"Alright, you may go and have the others dine as well," Qin Yan instructed Zhou Huai, who then closed the door and left.
"Finally, we've arrived in Yuzhou. Let's all relax and enjoy the meal," Qin Yan said as he took his seat. Qin Shuang sat down promptly but suddenly remembered something. "Third Brother, what about the two Crown Princes?"
Qin Yan chuckled wryly. "Prince Gong's Heir has his own arrangements. We needn't concern ourselves with him."
There was a hint of resigned amusement in his tone. While Qin Shuang didn't notice, Qin Guan picked up on it.
Earlier, after they returned to the carriage, Prince Gong's Heir had spoken in fluctuating volumes, making it hard for her to discern their plans. But hearing Qin Yan's words now, she began to understand.
As a result, the meal didn't sit well with her.
"Tomorrow, I'll be meeting two of Father's old acquaintances. The rest of you may explore the city or rest here. The day after, we'll attend Prince Yu's birthday banquet. On second thought, it wouldn't be appropriate for all three of you to go—two at most."
In an instant, all three sisters, including Qin Guan, looked up at Qin Yan.
Noticing Qin Guan's gaze, Qin Yan was slightly surprised. She had previously expressed reluctance to attend, yet now her eyes held a glimmer of anticipation. Uncertain, he asked, "Ninth Sister, do you wish to go?"
Qin Guan curved her lips slightly. "I initially thought of staying at the inn to rest, but then I considered that Prince Yu's banquet would surely be a grand affair, and I became curious. Still, it's up to you, Third Brother."
Qin Yan's expression softened. Her reasoning was perfectly natural, and he had intended to take her anyway.
"Very well. You and Sixth Sister will accompany me."
At this, Qin Shuang immediately brightened, while Qin Xiang, who had also been hopeful, froze in disappointment. "Third Brother—"
Qin Yan's gaze turned cold as he glanced at her. "You're still unwell. Focus on recovering."Qin Xiang hesitated, her eyes reddening as she glanced at Qin Yan for a moment before setting down her chopsticks and rising to her feet.
Qin Yan frowned and also put down his chopsticks, asking coldly, "What are you doing?"
Qin Xiang had initially wanted to lash out, but how could she dare to defy Qin Yan? Choking back her words, she replied with grievance, "Little sister is full. Third Brother and the other two sisters can take your time eating. I’ll excuse myself first."
With that, she gave a slight bow and turned to leave.
The door opened and closed, and Qin Xiang’s figure vanished. Wan He, who had followed Qin Xiang out, was frantic but couldn’t stop her, so she had no choice but to accompany Qin Xiang back to her room.
Inside the room, the atmosphere grew heavy for a moment.
After a pause, Qin Yan gave a cold laugh before softening his tone. "It’s fine. Since she’s full, let’s continue our meal."
Qin Shuang forced a smile. "Let’s eat, let’s eat..."
Though Qin Xiang’s departure had angered Qin Yan greatly, it didn’t disrupt the meal. After a brief lull, Qin Shuang soon began chattering again, and before long, the three of them were chatting as they ate. Once the meal ended, Qin Shuang followed Qin Guan back to her room, clinging to her for a few words before finally leaving. After Qin Shuang departed, Qin Guan washed up and lay down.
She hadn’t wanted to join the gathering, but with Li Muyun’s arrival, she couldn’t refuse.
Closing her eyes, Qin Guan initially pondered what role Li Muyun had played in her father’s case, but her thoughts soon drifted to Yan Chi. Yan Chi had left with Yan Li, and Qin Yan had mentioned they had arrangements. She had heard much about Yan Li’s reputation—what kind of arrangements could they possibly have?
Clutching the brocade quilt, Qin Guan felt as if a lump of hard iron had lodged in her heart, bringing her discomfort.
Despite her unease, exhaustion from the past few days eventually took over. After tossing and turning for a while, she finally fell asleep.
Early the next morning, Qin Guan awoke. Fuling had risen even earlier and greeted her, "Miss, it’s snowing again! And it’s even heavier than the snow we saw at Cloud Mist Mountain!"
Qin Guan got up and walked to the window, pushing it open to look outside...
Their room was on the third floor, offering an expansive view. From here, nearly half of Yuzhou City was visible. At this moment, the entire city was blanketed in thick snow, the vast expanse of white instinctively lifting one’s spirits. Qin Guan exhaled and quickly closed the window again. Though the snowscape was magnificent, the cold was unbearable.
"The Young Master has already gone out. He said breakfast would be brought up later. With the heavy snowfall today, he instructed the three young ladies not to wander around. If you wish to go out, wait until he returns to accompany you..."
Hearing this, Qin Guan frowned slightly. She had wanted to go out and explore. The last time she had been in Yuzhou was ten years ago, when her father had served as an official here. After a decade, the city had naturally changed significantly. Stepping once more onto the land where her family had once lived filled her with nostalgia and emotion. But since Qin Yan had given such instructions, she would simply stay in.
Staying in the guest room was inevitably dull, so Qin Guan went to check on Baiying.
Six days had passed, and Baiying’s wounds had begun to heal. With Qin Guan’s care, her injuries were no major concern, but since she had been struck by two arrows, full recovery would still take time.
"In the future, do you wish to stay with me, or...?"
Qin Guan had sent Fuling back to fetch medicine, so she lowered her voice to ask.Baiying's usually calm face showed a hint of tension upon hearing these words. "Does the young lady dislike this servant's work? Or does the young lady mind that this servant is His Highness's subordinate?"
Qin Guan shook her head upon hearing this. "Naturally, it's neither of those reasons. It's because you possess martial arts skills—staying with me would be a waste of your talents. I heard you were originally responsible for intelligence work for His Highness. Wouldn't it be better for you to remain by his side?"
Baiying let out a relieved sigh but shook her head. "His Highness doesn't lack for my service alone. Over the years, he has trained many people who are now scattered in various places. It's only because His Highness knew I didn’t want to be too far from my brother that he kept me nearby for assignments. Miss, you needn’t worry about this. Besides, His Highness’s intention was precisely for me to protect you."
As she spoke, Baiying’s expression turned remorseful. "Last time, it was my failure in duty."
Qin Guan sighed helplessly. "You call that a failure? If not for you blocking those two arrows for me, I might not even be alive now. You look so slender, yet you endured that pain for me—how could I blame you? My heart aches for you instead. Don’t dwell on it."
Baiying lowered her head. "Miss, your kindness is boundless. Serving you is my good fortune. If not for saving me that day, you wouldn’t have been in danger..." She raised her eyes. "Most masters in this world believe servants should sacrifice themselves without question, yet they would never risk their own safety for a servant. For this alone, I am willing to follow you with all my heart."
Qin Guan sighed. "If that’s how you feel... very well. But if you ever wish to return, or if His Highness needs you back, you may go without hesitation..."
"Where is Baiying going back to?"
Fuling stepped into the room just in time to hear Qin Guan’s words about Baiying leaving. She didn’t quite understand.
Qin Guan and Baiying exchanged a glance, sharing a knowing smile. Baiying, usually so solemn, looked suddenly lively and radiant—a truly beautiful sight.
"We were discussing her injuries," Qin Guan explained. "We thought of taking her downstairs for a walk later. She’s been bedridden for days, and if she feels unwell, we’ll just come back..."
Though Fuling sensed something amiss, her mind wasn’t sharp enough to figure it out. She nodded in agreement. "A walk would do her good. Lying down too long makes one dizzy."
Baiying nodded. "Very well, as Miss wishes."
The three of them chatted a while longer. Soon, Qin Shuang got up, and breakfast was brought in. After the meal, Baiying rested while Qin Guan and Qin Shuang read in her room.
After some time, Qin Shuang complained of boredom and tried to drag Qin Guan outside. Qin Guan had Fuling fetch Baiying, and the group dressed warmly to go downstairs. But just as they stepped out, Qin Yan returned. Seeing them bundled up and ready to leave, he smiled. "Where are you off to?"
Qin Shuang’s eyes darted mischievously as she pointed at Baiying. "Ninth Sister said it’s not good for a patient to stay in bed too long. We’re taking her out for some air."
Fuling rolled her eyes. Qin Yan gave Qin Shuang an amused look. "The streets are covered in snow—what’s there to see? If you want to stroll, how about I find you a garden instead?"
Qin Shuang blushed faintly at being caught but brightened at his suggestion. "A garden? Where?"
Qin Yan grinned. "I’ll take you to see how the wealthiest families in the west live."Qin Shuang hadn't yet grasped the situation when she saw Zhou Huai approaching with a middle-aged man dressed in luxurious attire. Zhou Huai smiled and said, "Brother Pang, these are the two young ladies of the household. The third one must still be resting..."
The middle-aged man accompanying Zhou Huai, though finely dressed, wore an expression of deep respect, indicating his modest status. The fact that Zhou Huai addressed him as "brother" suggested they were of similar standing.
At Zhou Huai's gesture, the man hurried forward and said, "Pang Youde pays his respects to the two young ladies."
Qin Shuang and Qin Guan curtsied slightly but remained puzzled about the man's identity. Noticing their confusion, Pang Youde smiled and explained, "Though the inn is our family's business, how could we let the young master and three young ladies stay here when they've arrived? The master is waiting for you. Please prepare yourselves quickly and follow this humble servant back to Qinghui Garden."
Seeing Qin Guan and Qin Shuang still bewildered, Qin Yan laughed heartily. "The owner of Ten Directions Inn is Master Pang, an old acquaintance of our father's. Knowing we've arrived, he insists we stay at his residence. This is Master Pang's chief steward. Qinghui Garden is Master Pang's estate. Come now, don't just stand there—go prepare and inform Fifth Sister as well."
Finally understanding, Qin Guan and Qin Shuang nodded and returned to their rooms without further questions, as it would be impolite to inquire further in front of Pang Youde. Their traveling belongings were minimal—Qin Guan had brought only a few dresses and some medicinal herbs. Within the time it took to drink a cup of tea, they had packed. When they emerged, Pang Youde was still chatting with Zhou Huai, and from what Qin Guan overheard, their conversation seemed related to Prince Yu's birthday banquet...
Shortly after, the group boarded carriages bound for Qinghui Garden.
Finally alone with Qin Guan, Qin Shuang couldn't contain her curiosity. "Third Brother didn't mention this yesterday! Only today do we learn that Uncle knows the owner of Ten Directions Inn. This Master Pang is truly hospitable—inviting us directly to his estate."
Qin Guan also found it surprising. She hadn't expected Loyal Marquis Manor to have connections with the renowned Pang Fuliang.
Indeed, Pang Fuliang was a remarkable figure. Rumor had it he started from nothing, building his fortune from a modest inn and achieving great success within just a few years. In Qin Guan's memory, a decade ago, Pang Fuliang hadn't yet earned the title "Master Pang." Presumably, as his wealth grew, so did his prestige. The Qinghui Garden they were heading to was said to have once been the estate of a prince decades earlier, though Qin Guan didn't know how it came into Pang Fuliang's possession.
In the Great Zhou Dynasty, merchants generally weren't held in high regard, but an empire-building magnate like Pang Fuliang, the wealthiest man in the western regions, commanded respect. Not only would Loyal Marquis Manor not refuse his hospitality, even Prince Yu would likely seek his friendship. His vast enterprises had undoubtedly spurred Yuzhou City's prosperity, making the title "Master Pang" well-deserved.
The snow continued to fall, blanketing Yuzhou City in thick silver. The cold grew more biting, and Qin Shuang dared not lift the carriage curtain to look outside. As they traveled north along the city's main thoroughfare, the clamor gradually faded into silence. After the time it took to drink two cups of tea, the surroundings had grown so quiet that Qin Shuang couldn't help peering out curiously.At a glance, the carriage had unknowingly entered a residential area. Though these were private residences, they were clearly not ordinary ones. Not only were the gates of each household tall and imposing, but some estates even boasted continuous intricate carvings and painted beams. Qin Shuang clicked her tongue in admiration, "The wealthiest families in Yuzhou must live here."
"Sixth Miss is quite right—"
Suddenly, Pang Youde, who had been riding behind them, urged his horse forward. Having overheard Qin Shuang's remark, he came up to enlighten her. "The northern part is indeed home to Yuzhou's most distinguished residents. Master's Qinghui Garden is located here, as is Prince Yu's residence." He pointed ahead, "Just a street away."
Qin Shuang craned her neck, but the buildings blocked her view. Noticing this, Pang Youde smiled kindly, "No need to be impatient, Sixth Miss. You'll see everything clearly at tomorrow's birthday banquet."
Embarrassed, Qin Shuang chuckled and quickly lowered the carriage curtain, refraining from further peeking.
After a quiet journey lasting the time it takes to drink a cup of tea, the carriage gradually came to a halt.
Pang Youde announced from outside, "We've arrived, young misses. Please alight."
Qin Shuang was the first to step down, followed closely by Qin Guan. As soon as she disembarked, she was greeted by an exceptionally grand gate. Though the Qin Manor in Jinzhou was considered affluent, its entrance paled in comparison to the majestic Qinghui Garden. Even the bold and elegant calligraphy of the three characters "Qinghui Garden" exuded grandeur, drawing an awed expression even from Qin Xiang.
Qin Yan led the way, striding confidently behind Pang Youde through the manor gates. No sooner had they entered than a hearty laugh rang out.
"The young master has arrived?! And the three young misses from the Marquis's household are here too?"
The voice carried a hint of arrogance and pride, its laughter stirring an inexplicable dislike in Qin Guan.
Raising her eyes, Qin Guan saw a young man in a blue robe approaching briskly.
In that brief moment, Qin Yan had already stepped forward. "Brother Pang, my siblings and I are imposing on your hospitality—"
"Nonsense! For the young master to stay at an inn while in Yuzhou would be a grave discourtesy on our part..." As he spoke, the newcomer caught sight of Qin Guan and the others behind. His gaze swept over their faces, lingering on Qin Guan for a moment longer before he exclaimed in admiration, "Heavens! I'd long heard of the Marquis's daughters' extraordinary beauty, but seeing is believing. What a pity I didn't know of your visit sooner..."
Qin Guan lowered her eyes, acutely aware of the man's brazen scrutiny. Though her expression remained neutral, her guard was up.
Yan Li also liked to laugh and jest in this manner, but he was far from being as slick as this man. Despite Yan Li's reputation for unrestrained behavior, he never ogled them so shamelessly...
"Greetings, young misses. Pang Yiwen at your service..."
Pang Yiwen stopped before them and bowed slightly. Qin Xiang, standing at the front, lowered her eyes shyly and returned the courtesy, followed perfunctorily by Qin Guan and Qin Shuang. Pang Yiwen smiled at the three of them before turning back to Qin Yan. "Let me first escort the young master and the young misses to your quarters to rest. Then we'll join my parents for dinner. My mother has prepared a feast to welcome you."Qin Yan was in his element as he exchanged pleasantries with Pang Yiwen. The two walked ahead while Qin Guan and the others followed behind. The garden's winding paths led to secluded spots, its scenery exquisite. Every detail, from the carved windows and bracket sets to the flower beds and rockeries, bore the mark of meticulous craftsmanship. If the details were so refined, the overall layout was even more imposing, exuding the noble bearing of its owner.
Pang Yiwen, it seemed, often entertained guests in his residence. Every few steps, he would pause to introduce the garden's features. Each time he turned his head, his gaze lingered on Qin Guan—filled with admiration and awe, but more often with a presumptuous greed that she found distasteful. Qin Guan subtly slowed her pace, allowing Qin Shuang to unknowingly walk ahead of her. Only then did Pang Yiwen glance back less frequently.
Frowning slightly, Qin Guan couldn't help but feel that moving to Qinghui Garden might not have been the best decision.
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