Coroner's Diary

"Your Excellencies, Father, I actually have a way to break this deadlock—"

The moment Qin Yan spoke, he immediately captured everyone's attention. Zheng Baishi urgently asked, "What method does the heir apparent have?"

Zheng Baishi, who was about the same age as Qin Shu, possessed broad, handsome features and an elegant, refined demeanor—the very image of a civil official. Today, he wore a dark blue casual robe to the Marquis' residence, which made him appear even more dignified and composed. Yet his tone carried a hint of anxiety, clearly indicating how troubled he was by this case. Meanwhile, Li Muyun, though silent, fixed his gaze intently on Qin Yan.

Compared to the refined Zheng Baishi, Li Muyun's expression held a touch of aloof indifference that kept others at a distance. Though a few years younger than Zheng Baishi and Qin Shu, he carried a weighty maturity about him. His figure was as slender and straight as a bamboo, and his narrow eyes gleamed with a sharp intelligence. Sitting upright with his back perfectly straight, he exuded an inexplicably rigid scholarly air.

While Zheng Baishi and Li Muyun watched Qin Yan, Qin Shu's attention was even more focused—though his eyes were filled with doubt. He knew his son well and was aware of everyone around him. How could Qin Yan have a solution without his knowledge?

Under the gaze of his three elders, Qin Yan adopted a serious expression. "Prefect Zheng, are the victims' bodies from the case still preserved?"

Zheng Baishi nodded. "Naturally. The case remains unsolved, so the bodies haven't been released to their families."

Qin Yan pressed his lips together slightly. "And who performed the corpse examination after the incident?"

Zheng Baishi looked even more surprised. "The coroner... was Old Fang from the prefectural office. He's an experienced coroner in Lin'an City. Why? Does the heir apparent suspect errors in his examination?"

Qin Yan shook his head. "Not exactly. It's just... I know someone who is deeply fascinated by criminal investigations and enjoys deduction. As you mentioned earlier—peeling back the layers with meticulous attention—she often notices details others overlook. She has also assisted in investigating several murder cases elsewhere. However, she currently holds no official position. I'm unsure if she can intervene in this matter."

"Oh? Who is this person? If she truly possesses the abilities you describe, the lack of an official title is no obstacle. The Lin'an Prefecture happens to have two minor clerk vacancies. If the heir apparent vouches for her, she can join the prefecture directly. She can start as a clerk, and if she proves capable, I will certainly not treat her unfairly." Zheng Baishi was remarkably generous.

However, Li Muyun, who had been listening nearby, interjected, "But heir apparent, if even Prefect Zheng and the prefectural constables are stumped, could your friend truly be more skilled than the constables?"

The prefect managed the administration of the region, while most ordinary murder cases were investigated personally by the constables. The person Qin Yan described held no official rank and, though she had assisted in cases, surely couldn't match the seasoned experience of the prefectural staff. Would she truly be useful?

This question made Qin Yan hesitate for a moment. Seeing his expression, Zheng Baishi understood that Qin Yan wasn't entirely certain. Yet, given the urgency of the situation, Zheng Baishi decided to take a chance. "Who is this friend of yours, heir apparent?"

Another question, and Qin Yan's expression grew even more hesitant. "Your Excellency, to be frank, the person I speak of isn't specifically skilled in investigation. Rather... her medical expertise is exceptional. She has assisted in corpse examinations before. Due to her medical training, her methods are more sophisticated and precise than those of ordinary coroners. Combined with her sharp intellect, she often uncovers crucial details."Qin Yan's expression shifted slightly halfway through his speech, yet he did not interrupt Qin Yan.

Meanwhile, Qin Yan paused briefly before continuing, "I only made the recommendation because I saw Prefect Zheng and Lord Li had exhausted their options. Whether she can actually help, I cannot say."

Zheng Baishi and Li Muyun exchanged glances. Zheng Baishi sighed, "Since you speak this way, you must have some understanding of their skills. Earlier, you mentioned their exceptional ability in corpse examination—do you mean to have them assist with the autopsy?"

Qin Yan nodded, "Exactly so. If she can examine the corpse, she might uncover details previously overlooked."

Zheng Baishi hesitated slightly, looking at Li Muyun, "Actually, Old Fang is quite experienced in the path of corpse examination..."

Li Muyun also nodded, "After all, he has been doing it for many years."

After a pause, Li Muyun looked at Qin Yan, "Still, there is no harm in trying."

A faint smile touched Zheng Baishi's lips, "Where is your friend, the heir apparent? Can we contact them now?"

Qin Yan's eyes shifted thoughtfully, "My friend is currently... in the capital. However, they are not affiliated with the prefectural prison or judiciary. Given the gravity of this case, I am uncertain if they would be willing to assist..."

"You need not worry on that account, heir apparent. We are merely approaching this as an attempt. Even if it does not succeed, we would never hold it against them."

Zheng Baishi's tone was gentle, and Qin Yan trusted the prefect deeply. He replied, "Then... allow me to send someone to inquire. If they agree, I will dispatch a messenger to inform you at the prefecture." He added, "However... there is one matter I must ask for your understanding. My friend has a special status. If they agree to help, the autopsy must be conducted discreetly."

Zheng Baishi chuckled, "I understand, I understand. They are not an official, and I will not make any grand arrangements."

Qin Yan relaxed, "Good. I will send someone shortly and have an answer for you by tomorrow morning."

Zheng Baishi nodded. Though anxious, he would not insist on finding someone to conduct the autopsy that very night, especially since... he was reluctant to refuse Qin Yan's enthusiasm. Had anyone else rashly suggested bringing in an outsider for the autopsy, he would likely have declined. The prefecture's constables and coroners were highly experienced, far surpassing ordinary individuals. While Qin Yan mentioned his friend's medical skills, medicine and forensic techniques were fundamentally different.

The more Zheng Baishi thought about it, the less expectation he held. Yet, though his hopes were modest, Qin Yan's suggestion had sparked an idea: Could something have been missed during the initial autopsy? With this thought, Zheng Baishi felt inclined to take his leave. "It is late, and we shall not impose further. With the New Year approaching, this matter alone weighs on our minds. The Marquis is already aware of the Crown Prince's arrangements in the south, so we need not concern ourselves with that."

Qin Shu promptly responded, "You need not worry on that front. Resolving this current matter is what matters."

Zheng Baishi rose and cupped his hands, "I must return to the yamen, so I take my leave now. What about you, Lord Li?"

Li Muyun also stood, "I shall not stay either. I will visit another day to trouble you again."

Qin Shu exchanged a few more pleasantries with them before personally escorting them to the side gate of the Marquis residence. Once they departed, Qin Shu brought Qin Yan back to the study. As soon as they entered, Qin Shu asked, "Who were you referring to earlier?"

"Father, it is Ninth Sister—"Qin Shu took his seat, his brows furrowed tightly. "This is truly reckless! Your ninth sister has just arrived in the capital. It’s one thing to say she knows medicine and can save people, but how could you let her go to the magistrate’s office to conduct a corpse examination?"

Qin Yan forced a bitter smile. "I only suggested it because I saw no other way forward in this case. I couldn’t help myself."

He added, "Father, Ninth Sister is truly exceptional in this path. I’ve seen her perform a corpse examination with my own eyes."

"What of it?" Qin Shu sighed. "Are you talking about Yuanzhou or Yuzhou?"

"In Yuanzhou, she didn’t personally handle the body, but she clearly knew what to look for. In Yuzhou, she conducted the examination herself."

Qin Shu retorted impatiently, "Back then, it was only because there were no experienced coroners available that she stepped in. But now, Magistrate Zheng has already said that the coroner at the magistrate’s office is a seasoned one. She may know medicine, but how can she compare to those veteran coroners?"

"It’s not just medicine, Father. Ninth Sister is also very interested in criminal investigation and judicial methods!"

"Can she possibly be more skilled than the constables at the magistrate’s office?"

Qin Yan’s lips twitched, but he found no words to reply. What Qin Shu said was indeed reasonable. Yet, for some reason, while Qin Yan felt protective of Qin Guan and didn’t want her involved in such matters, he also inexplicably believed that she had her own remarkable abilities. Given the urgency of the situation, he instinctively felt that Qin Guan could resolve this dilemma, which was why he had recommended her.

Seeing Qin Yan’s expression, Qin Shu shook his head. "You are still too impulsive. When you first brought it up, I didn’t think much of it, but after you finished speaking, I began to suspect something. By then, it was too late to stop you."

Qin Yan smiled wryly. "Then, Father, should we still let Ninth Sister go?"

Qin Shu pondered briefly. "Since you’ve already spoken, we can only adopt the attitude of letting your ninth sister give it a try. However, as you said, we should first ask for her opinion. If she is unwilling, then forget it."

"Ninth Sister will definitely be willing—"

Qin Yan answered with unwavering certainty. Qin Shu glanced at him skeptically. "Are you so sure?"

Qin Yan nodded, feeling an inexplicable excitement stirring within him. Although he hadn’t witnessed firsthand how Qin Guan had assisted Yan Chi and Wang Huaiyu in their investigations, he had gathered from Qing Niang’s account that it was indeed Qin Guan who had identified the key to the Qinghui Garden case. Moreover, during their time at Cloud Mist Mountain in Yuanzhou, Qin Guan not only knew what to examine during a corpse examination but also deduced the route the murderer had taken. In the end, it was Qin Guan who led the team back to the Herb Garden to rescue Qin Xiang. All these events had filled Qin Yan with immense admiration for Qin Guan. These were things he had witnessed with his own eyes. And Qin Shuang had mentioned that, back in Jinzhou, Qin Guan had already been assisting Yan Chi with investigations.

Observing Qin Yan’s expression, Qin Shu narrowed his eyes slightly.

Qin Yan had been taught by him. Though young, Qin Yan possessed a keen ability to judge character. If Qin Yan trusted Qin Guan, then Qin Guan must indeed have exceptional qualities. Qin Shu was aware of the events that had occurred in Jinzhou and during Qin Guan’s journey back. Yet, when he saw Qin Guan in person, he still unconsciously regarded her as a young girl, his little niece. Moreover, since he had not been present during those incidents, he remained somewhat skeptical of Qin Guan’s capabilities. As he pondered this, a flicker of curiosity arose within him. Was Qin Guan truly that remarkable?

An ordinary young girl would be frightened at the mere sight of a dead body, let alone conducting a corpse examination. But now, Qin Guan was not only going to examine a corpse—she was going to assist the Lin’an Magistrate’s Office. The fear and pressure she must be facing were unimaginable—Qin Shu pondered for a few moments. "Go and call your Ninth Sister. As it happens, there is one more matter I need to inform her about."

Qin Yan nodded and hurriedly turned to leave the outer study.

...

When Hu Shi returned from the outer study, Qin Guan and the others had almost finished their meal. Not knowing the reason for Zheng Baishi and the others' visit, Hu Shi, preoccupied with the matter, only ate a few bites before stopping. After the evening meal, tea and snacks were served as usual. Hu Shi knew the discussion in the outer study wouldn't conclude quickly, so she prepared to chat over tea with Qin Chaoyu and her young nieces. However, before they could exchange more than a few words, Qin Yan suddenly arrived—

"Yan'er? Where is your father? And the two officials?"

A slight smile touched Qin Yan's lips. "The two officials have left. Father is still in the study."

He glanced at Qin Guan as he spoke. "Father wants Ninth Sister to come to the outer study."

Hu Shi and the others immediately looked at Qin Guan, who stood up in some surprise herself.

Qin Yan smiled reassuringly. "It's nothing serious. Father said he has something to inform you about."

Qin Guan nodded. "Very well, I'll go now."

Qin Yan gave an affirmative hum. "Come with me then." He then addressed Hu Shi, "Mother, I'll take Ninth Sister over."

Hu Shi stepped forward. "Go ahead, go ahead—"

As Qin Yan led Qin Guan away, Fuling promptly followed. After the three left the main hall, Qin Chaoyu and the others still wore puzzled expressions. Qin Xiang asked, "Why did Uncle summon Ninth Sister?"

Qin Chaoyu's brows remained tightly knit. "Mother, who were the distinguished guests who came with Father?"

Hu Shi smiled. "It was Prefect Zheng. Your father likely wants to give Wan Yatou the land deeds for the Second Branch."

"The Second Branch's land deeds? You mean Second Aunt and Second Uncle's deeds?"

Qin Shuang asked curiously. Hu Shi nodded. "Yes. When your Second Uncle and Aunt passed away so suddenly, some of the Second Branch's property and land deeds were entrusted to your uncle for safekeeping."

Qin Shuang made an understanding sound. "I see."

Qin Chaoyu's expression relaxed as well. Regardless of her other traits, Qin Guan's orphaned status genuinely evoked her sympathy. Satisfied that it was merely about handing over deeds, Qin Chaoyu sat back down and resumed her tea.

Meanwhile, Qin Guan followed behind Qin Yan with a rapidly beating heart.

Fuling had never mentioned anything about the Second Branch's land deeds. What could Qin Shu want with her?

When she had been sent away back then, Ninth Miss's temperament must have been as it was before—detached from worldly affairs, timid and timid. Though Fuling served Ninth Miss with dedication, she was ultimately a servant. Since the Second and Main Branches had already separated households, the disposition of the Second Branch's assets was indeed something Qin Guan should concern herself with. Yet she hadn't fully embraced the identity of Ninth Miss, and naturally, hadn't developed any urgency to pursue the matter of the property.

"Ninth Sister, what have you been doing these past two days?"

Seeing Qin Guan walking with downcast eyes in silence, Qin Yan initiated conversation.

Qin Guan looked up. "Nothing much, just reading and making medicinal pills."

Qin Yan hesitated momentarily, considering whether to say more, but ultimately decided against it. "There's no need to be nervous. It's nothing major."

Qin Guan nodded and followed Qin Yan straight into the study courtyard. The night was deep, the winter chill severe. As Qin Guan entered the courtyard, she saw the room brightly lit. Composing herself, she followed Qin Yan through the doorway.

"Father, Ninth Sister is here—"

Qin Yan turned to announce her. Qin Guan performed a slight curtsy. "Greetings, Uncle."Qin Shu wore a warm smile. "Is it cold outside? Why didn't you wear a cape?"

Qin Guan curved her lips. "I'm just walking within the estate, so it's not cold."

Qin Shu gestured to a nearby stool. "Sit and talk."

Qin Yan and Qin Guan sat down together. Qin Shu then said gently, "I should have told you this as soon as you returned, but I thought you needed time to adjust, so I planned to wait until you had rested before informing you. Now that you've been back for a few days, you must have settled in, so I'll give you some things."

As he spoke, Qin Yan took out a rosewood box from the desk drawer. He patted the lid and said, "This contains the family assets of the second branch left behind when your father passed away. They departed suddenly back then, and you were still young. Fearing that the servants might take advantage, I took custody of these items. The matter was witnessed by other elders of the clan at the time, so you can rest assured. Now that you've returned, I'm handing them over to you for safekeeping."

With that, Qin Yan pushed the box forward. "These properties are still managed by a few stewards from your father's household. They're currently at your father's estate. Originally, your father owned several shops, but after his passing, without a knowledgeable master to oversee them, they declined day by day. Later, I decided to sell them and exchange them for farmland. Over the years, the rental income has increased annually, and all the funds are deposited at Qingfeng Bank. You can withdraw the savings using your father's seal. Inside this box are the land deeds, property deeds, your father's seal, and other documents. Take them for now. The New Year is approaching soon—whenever you wish to meet these stewards, just inform your third brother, and he'll send someone to summon them to the estate."

Qin Guan listened and nodded naturally. Qin Yan added, "You don't need to manage these properties personally. The stewards are experienced—you only need to let them know you're their master. In the future, when you marry, these will serve as your dowry."

Qin Guan hesitated, on the verge of speaking. Hearing Qin Shu's words, she knew these assets were valuable. Yet, as she wasn't the true Ninth Miss, accepting them made her feel somewhat guilty. Noticing her hesitation, Qin Shu smiled. "If you're worried about managing them, you can always ask me or your third brother for help. We'll assist you. Your father was upright and honest—these assets aren't excessive. When you marry, your aunt will also prepare dowry gifts for you. Still, these are your father's legacy and should rightfully be passed to you. Come, take them. Inside is also the inventory witnessed by the clan elders back then, listing every asset. Check if all the deeds are complete—"

Both Qin Shu and Qin Yan watched Qin Guan intently. After a moment's thought, she steeled herself, stood up, walked to the desk, and took the box. It felt heavy. Qin Shu smiled and said, "Open it and check—"

Qin Guan quickly replied, "You've been managing them for so many years, Uncle. There's no need to check."

Qin Shu smiled. "It's good that you trust your uncle." He paused, then added, "Your third brother mentioned to me that you know how to perform a corpse examination?"

Qin Guan, still pondering what to do with the box, was startled by the words "corpse examination."

She glanced at Qin Yan and nodded. "Yes."

Qin Shu's smile deepened. "How did you learn to perform a corpse examination?"Qin Guan straightened her back. "At first, I only knew medicine. Later, I happened to read an article about corpse examination and unexpectedly discovered it shared common ground with the medical path. During official investigations, there are cases where natural deaths are mistaken for murders—this is when coroners must perform examinations to determine if foul play was involved, often requiring pathological knowledge. Conversely, some murders are disguised as natural deaths, and distinguishing them demands extensive medical principles. This sparked my interest in corpse examination, so I began studying it. After reading some books, I found it wasn’t particularly difficult."

The phrase "wasn’t particularly difficult" made Qin Shu narrow his eyes slightly. Corpse examination was far from simple, but for someone with talent, it might indeed not be hard. Qin Shu listened with growing interest. "You’re right about that. But aren’t you afraid?"

Qin Guan pursed her lips. "I was a little scared at first, but later I realized the dead can’t move or harm anyone, so the fear faded. As for superstitions about ghosts, lighting Aversion Incense during the examination suffices."

The light in Qin Shu’s eyes brightened. He finally began to believe Qin Yan’s words—what young woman could discuss corpses and examinations so calmly? Qin Yan added, "You’re not afraid of the blood and filth?"

Qin Guan paused briefly. "The Bodhi is not a tree, nor the mirror a stand."

Qin Shu was taken aback, then laughed heartily. "Well said! 'The Bodhi is not a tree, the mirror has no stand—where could dust alight?' You appear serene, but I didn’t expect such transcendence in your temperament. Fear and dread are illusions; once understood, there’s nothing to fear. Guan’er, you continue to impress me."

Qin Guan lowered her gaze. "I merely heard Old Madam recite Buddhist scriptures often while in Jinzhou..."

This explanation dispelled any lingering doubts in Qin Shu’s mind, leaving him with a soft sigh. "When your third brother said your medical skills were extraordinary, I was skeptical. Though your parents favored this path, they never achieved remarkable feats in it. Yet now, it seems you’ve surpassed their early teachings—a clear testament to your exceptional talent."

Not only was her talent in the medical path extraordinary, but her enlightenment from mere scripture recitations by Old Madam in Jinzhou revealed a temperament beyond the ordinary. Since his initial astonishment at Qin Guan’s beauty upon their first meeting, Qin Shu had had little time to speak with his three nieces. These brief words today renewed his admiration for her.

With this, broaching the next topic became effortless.

"Guan’er, since you’re unafraid of corpse examination, your uncle has a favor to ask." Qin Shu spoke plainly. "You’ve likely heard of the recent case in the capital. The Lin’an Prefect has investigated for over a month without finding key clues. Hearing about your abilities from your third brother tonight, I thought to ask you to try. Are you willing?"

Qin Guan’s heart stirred—so this was the reason for summoning her today.

Without hesitation, she nodded. "Of course, I’m willing."

Qin Shu was surprised again. "Have you thought it through? This case is of great importance."

He quickly added, "If you go, you must give your best. Any help would be appreciated, but it’s alright if you can’t manage."

Qin Guan nodded. "Uncle, rest assured. Since I’ve agreed, I won’t take it lightly."

Qin Shu cheerfully patted the desk. "Excellent! Truly worthy of the Qin family—a woman not outshone by men. This matter still requires some arrangements. Rest assured, we won’t make a grand spectacle of it. Just wait for the news; most likely, you’ll be arranged to go tomorrow." He added, "Your third brother and I will accompany you. Don’t be afraid."

Qin Guan wasn’t afraid to begin with, but she still replied, "Very well, Uncle, I’ll trust your judgment."

Qin Shu then asked, "Do you need to prepare anything?"

Qin Guan thought for a moment. "Just the tools commonly used by the coroner in the magistrate’s office will suffice."

Qin Shu nodded. "Good. You may return to rest for the night."

Qin Guan bowed slightly and turned to leave. Qin Yan rose to escort her to the courtyard gate, whispering, "Wait for my message."

Qin Guan gave a soft "Mm" before departing.

Only when Qin Guan was out of sight did Qin Yan hurry back inside. As soon as he entered, he exclaimed excitedly, "Father, what did I say? Ninth Sister is different, isn’t she?"

The smile hadn’t faded from Qin Shu’s face, clearly in high spirits. "This alone isn’t enough. Her temperament is commendable, but success depends on more than just that."

Qin Yan lifted his chin confidently. "Don’t worry, Father. I won’t let you down."

Qin Shu smiled and nodded. "Quickly send someone to the magistrate’s office. Get the news as soon as possible so we can prepare early tomorrow."

Qin Yan nodded emphatically and turned to instruct Cheng Hu.

Meanwhile, Qin Guan returned directly to Pine Breeze Courtyard, carrying the rosewood box.

Fuling, eyeing the box in Qin Guan’s hands, asked, "Miss, are these the deeds to the old residence?"

Qin Guan nodded. "Along with all the properties Father owned during his lifetime."

Hearing this, Fuling’s eyes reddened slightly. "Miss, it’s good that the elder master has given these to you. The late master’s spirit must be at peace now. With these assets, we need not worry about the future."

Qin Guan smiled wryly, her mind already occupied with how to manage these possessions. As she mulled it over, she opened the box. True to Qin Shu’s words, inside was a list detailing all the properties under Qin Yi’s name, stamped with the seals of the Qin family elders and Qin Shu. Qin Guan skimmed through it, her gaze settling on the thick stack of deeds beneath.

Only then did she realize that Qin Shu’s earlier claim of "not many properties" had been an understatement.

In her previous life as part of the Shen family, Shen Yi had come from humble origins. Though he later attained high status and power, their wealth had been modest. This was Qin Guan’s first time handling so many assets. The more she looked, the more she felt a sense of helplessness. The second branch of the Qin family had no heirs, yet she had inexplicably inherited Ninth Miss’s substantial fortune. Should she really use it as her dowry, as Qin Shu had suggested?

Qin Guan shook her head. The box contained numerous land deeds—no shops, but plenty of property titles. She examined them one by one until her eyes paused on a particular deed.

Noticing her distraction, Fuling read aloud, "Copper Coin Lane, Eternal Joy Quarter… Miss, do you like this residence?"

Qin Guan frowned slightly. "Not particularly. It’s just that Father’s other properties are in the south. I wonder what this western residence is like."

Fuling tilted her head. "Eternal Joy Quarter is also an area where nobility resides. Though there are fewer marquises and dukes, it’s often where capital officials have their mansions. It shouldn’t be bad."

Qin Guan nodded, glanced at the deed once more, and then turned her attention to the other documents."What are your plans, Miss? What did the Eldest Master say?"

"Uncle said all these will be my future dowry."

Fuling breathed a sigh of relief. "That's wonderful. I've been worrying about your future, but never expected the Eldest Master to be so fair."

The second branch of the Qin family had no male heirs. Strictly speaking, the family properties in Qin Guan's possession belonged to the Qin clan. If she took them away as dowry, they would eventually bear another family's surname. There were numerous cases where distant relatives fought over properties after someone's death, yet Qin Shu showed no greed in this Path. Although Qin Guan wasn't biologically related to Qin Shu's family, after spending several days with them and understanding them better, her initial wariness had gradually faded. Hearing Fuling's words, Qin Guan nodded in agreement.

"Uncle suggested I meet with Father's former stewards when the time is right."

Fuling's eyes brightened. "Yes, you must meet them. They need to know who their true master is. If they're loyal, you should win them over. You'll need your own people going forward."

Qin Guan didn't object to this point. Having returned to the capital for days, she found herself at a standstill. How could she possibly investigate her father's case if things continued this way? She indeed needed her own trusted aides.

"Alright, we'll arrange a meeting after the New Year."

As she contemplated, Qin Guan felt a pang of guilt toward Ninth Miss. She had taken over Ninth Miss's body and inherited what rightfully belonged to her—both people and wealth. Though she had no greed for riches, she knew she might need these resources for her father's case in the future. With this in mind, Qin Guan resolved to fulfill Ninth Miss's role more diligently, as a tribute to her departed soul. At the very least, since she was now part of the Marquis household, if Ninth Miss were still alive, she would likely wish for the household's prosperity while ensuring her own safety. Therefore, she must handle tomorrow's Corpse Examination with utmost caution...

"Go prepare some Aversion Incense."

Qin Guan suddenly instructed, surprising both Fuling and Baiying. "Miss, what do we need that for?"

Qin Guan put away the sandalwood box and, after a moment's hesitation, decided to be frank with them. "For tomorrow."

Hearing this, both Fuling and Baiying's expressions changed.

Qin Guan said solemnly, "Uncle has asked for my help regarding the recent cases in the capital."

Fuling seemed to want to say more but held back, while Baiying looked hesitant. Qin Guan smiled reassuringly. "Don't worry, there's no danger. If I could assist Governor Huo in Jinzhou, I can certainly help Uncle here."

Qin Guan naturally knew this matter didn't fall under the Marquis household's jurisdiction and likely involved the Crown Prince. Although she had no intention of getting involved in court faction struggles, since the Marquis household had already made its choice, she could only stand with them.

"Miss, when and where will it be tomorrow?"

Qin Guan shook her head. "I don't know yet. We'll have to wait for tomorrow's news. Go prepare it."

Fuling nodded and left. Baiying hesitated before saying, "Miss, the capital is different from outside. If you rashly conduct a Corpse Examination and word gets out, it might damage your reputation..."

"No need to worry." Qin Guan smiled slightly, then suddenly asked, "Do you know when your master will return?"

Baiying shook her head. "I don't know. I only contact my master when something happens—he never gives me instructions. He said that currently, you are my proper master."Qin Guan smiled, "Alright then, nothing's the matter. Let's prepare to rest."

After saying this, Qin Guan found herself idly gazing out the pitch-black window. In just one more day, it would be New Year's Eve. If Yan Chi didn't return, where would he spend the holiday?

With this thought, Qin Guan fell asleep and indeed dreamed of Yan Chi's face.

...

...

Late at night, in the study of Prince Cheng's residence, Prince Cheng Yan Qi was listening to his subordinate's report.

"Your Highness, Prefect Zheng and Minister Li went to the Loyal Marquis Manor tonight and left after about half an hour. Afterwards, Minister Li returned to his own residence while Prefect Zheng went to the government office. About another half hour later, the Loyal Marquis Manor sent a servant to the government office as well, seemingly to report something. The servant stayed at the office for only the time it takes to drink a cup of tea before returning to the manor."

In the dim light, Yan Qi's face flickered between shadow and illumination. "They went to the manor? And then the manor sent someone to the government office? Just one person? Did they carry anything?"

The servant quickly shook his head. "No, just one person. They might have carried a letter, but no other items were visible."

Yan Qi snorted lightly. "Regardless of whether they carried anything, they must be working on the murder case in the city. Tomorrow is the 29th of the twelfth month - they only have two days left. I don't believe they can pull off any tricks now."

Tilting his chin up, Yan Qi asked, "What does our informant at the government office say?"

The servant immediately responded, "Several leads have reached dead ends. Our people destroyed some key evidence - they won't find new clues. Not only by New Year's Eve, but they might not even solve it by the Lantern Festival."

Yan Qi chuckled. "Good. At least delay it until the Lantern Festival. I want to see what face our Crown Prince will have if he still can't solve it by then!"

The servant promptly acknowledged the order. Yan Qi then said lazily, "There are only two days left. Though time is tight, we must keep close watch. We cannot underestimate the Loyal Marquis - that old fox is full of schemes."

He continued with another laugh, "Seeing the Crown Prince about to make a mistake, he's probably more anxious than anyone. He's staked his entire family's fortune on the Crown Prince. With Qin Chaoyu hoping to enter the Eastern Palace as Crown Princess, he's naturally doing his utmost to advise the Crown Prince."

At this point, Yan Qi's expression suddenly darkened. "Keep the manor under tight surveillance. This back-and-forth with someone sent to the government office tonight is likely suspicious. On this final day, they definitely won't just stand by and watch the Crown Prince face His Majesty's reprimand. Most likely, that old fox will come up with some delaying or compromise measure."

His expression shifting again, Yan Qi mused, "If it were me, I'd probably find someone to take the blame."

The servant hesitated slightly. "Find someone to take the blame? Pretend the case is solved?"

Yan Qi nodded. "When the heir apparent of the Duke of Wei's family committed murder before, the Duke paid to have a death row inmate take the blame. This time, they'll probably follow the same method."

The more Yan Qi thought about it, the more plausible it seemed - this would be the best way to resolve the case within two days. "Either find a death row inmate or someone of unknown identity, fabricate some material evidence, and they can casually close the case."

"Then... what should we do? Have our informant at the government office keep watch?"Yan Qi grunted in acknowledgment. "That's one reason. The second is that we can't let our guard down against those watching the Marquis' residence from outside. If they truly decide to proceed this way, our informant in the government office likely won't be able to access the core of this matter. So, report to me immediately tomorrow if there's any movement at the Marquis' residence. I want to see what role they're playing in this affair. If they truly take such a risky gamble, all the better—this time we'll round up all of them in one sweep. Let's see what the Crown Prince has left to compete with me then..."

"Yes, I understand, sir."

...

...

Early the next morning, just after Qin Guan finished breakfast, Qin Yan arrived as scheduled. Not only had Qin Yan come himself, but he also brought a bundle for Qin Guan. "Change into this. We'll set off at the hour of Si."

Without looking at what was in the bundle, Qin Guan asked in slight surprise, "So early?"

Qin Yan nodded. "It would be better to go at night, but we don't have that much time. That's why I prepared this for you."

He tilted his chin, signaling Qin Guan to open the bundle.

Qin Guan unfolded it to find a moon-white brocade robe for a young man.

She looked up at Qin Yan in surprise. He cleared his throat lightly. "We're going to the Mortuary Temple today. If you go in women's clothing, it might attract too much attention. This was bought casually—try it on."

Qin Guan nodded and went into the inner room.

Fuling and Baiying both knew what Qin Guan was going to do and immediately followed to help her change.

Since it was still early, Qin Yan wasn't in a hurry. He waited outside idly. After a while, he heard footsteps approaching and instinctively turned to look. The moment he turned around, he froze.

Qin Guan's male attire wasn't particularly luxurious. The size and cut were meant for a slender youth of sixteen or seventeen, yet it fit her inexplicably well. The robe wasn't form-fitting, so it concealed her graceful figure, though the empty space around the waist revealed how slender the "young man" was. Today, Qin Guan had her jet-black hair tied up high, fully revealing her delicate features. The gentle aura she usually had with hair flowing over her shoulders was diminished, replaced by a touch of spirited elegance.

Qin Yan looked her up and down, feeling that this "young man" before him was indescribably elegant and beautiful. Her clear, bright eyes were especially captivating, like a young deer's. Though Qin Guan's frame was slender for a man, typically it was delicate women who evoked a protective instinct. Yet even dressed as a man, she still stirred a desire to cherish and shield her. The intention had been to somewhat conceal her beauty, but now, the capital had gained another handsome young man.

Seeing Qin Yan's rapidly changing expressions, Qin Guan glanced down at herself. "It fits quite well. What's wrong? Is something not right?"

Qin Yan sighed. "No, it's fine. Let's go by carriage."

Qin Guan nodded. Qin Yan then looked at Fuling and Baiying. "Only one of you will accompany us today. Bringing others would be inconvenient."

Qin Guan didn't object, though Fuling pouted. After waiting a while, as the hour of Si approached, Qin Guan followed Qin Yan out of the residence, boarded the carriage, and headed straight for the Mortuary Temple in the southern part of the city.

The carriage had only traveled about ten zhang when, at a street corner not far from the Marquis' residence, an inconspicuous short man turned and quickly disappeared into the cold morning wind of winter.