As soon as they stepped out of the main gate of the Buddhist shrine, Yan Chi asked, "Will the princess consort be attending the palace banquet tomorrow?"
Yan Li stretched lazily again. "No, Mother never goes year after year. I'm still thinking about whether I should go." As he spoke, Yan Li glanced back once more. "During the New Year festivities, I might as well stay in the residence."
Qin Guan, listening from behind, felt a slight stir in her heart.
Every New Year's Eve, the palace held a grand banquet, inviting all imperial relatives, dukes, and court officials of the fourth rank and above along with their families to feast in the palace, symbolizing the royal family's favor toward the courtiers. This time last year, she had accompanied her father into the palace.
Her father had been in the capital for three years and had attended the palace banquet multiple times, but because Qin Guan disliked dealing with such formal occasions, last year was her first time entering the palace. Three months later, in the spring, she was designated as the Princess Consort of Prince Yong. After that, she entered the palace a few more times to express gratitude, but in her memory, she had never seen Yan Li, let alone Yan Chi...
Yan Chi, upon hearing this, indeed said, "I haven't returned for the New Year in several years, so I can't avoid it."
Yan Li then grinned mischievously. "Then, Seventh Brother, make sure to leave early later. I'll wait to drink with you..."
He then added, "Where shall we go now?" and looked at Qin Guan. "What would Ninth Miss like to do?"
Qin Guan only wanted to return to the Marquis' residence now. No matter where Yan Chi and Yan Li intended to go, it wouldn't be appropriate for her to follow given her status. Yan Chi glanced at Qin Guan for a moment, seemingly discerning her thoughts, and said, "I must send her back first. It's not suitable for her to stay out for long."
Yan Li opened his mouth in surprise. "And I thought we were going to Drunken Fragrance Pavilion..."
Yan Chi curved his lips. "You go first. I'll join you shortly."
Yan Li then laughed again. "Alright, then I'll see you out."
Yan Chi shook his head. "We'll leave through the side gate—"
Yan Li was taken aback. "Through the side gate? Could it be that..."
Yan Chi nodded, glanced at Bai Feng for a moment, but Bai Feng had already exited through the main gate. Yan Chi explained, "He's going to get the carriage. We'll leave through the side gate. Prince Cheng's men are likely still waiting outside."
Yan Li understood immediately and escorted Yan Chi and Qin Guan to the side gate. The side gate of Prince Gong's residence was located to the west of the entire compound. After walking for a short while, the surroundings suddenly grew dimmer. When they reached the gate, Yan Li personally opened it. "What a pity Ninth Miss can't join us. Ninth Miss, after the New Year, shall we go hunting and enjoy the spring scenery outside the city together?"
Qin Guan curved her lips slightly. "My status makes it inconvenient, but if it can be arranged, that would be lovely."
Yan Li smiled until his eyes narrowed into slits. Outside the gate, Bai Feng had already driven the carriage over.
"Master, their men indeed haven't moved."
The men arranged by Prince Cheng had followed them, undoubtedly to ascertain Qin Guan's true identity. Earlier, when they saw Bai Feng come out alone, the others assumed Yan Chi would stay longer at Prince Gong's residence. They hadn't expected Yan Chi to leave through the side gate, largely because Prince Gong's residence had long avoided interactions with outsiders, to the extent that even their subordinates couldn't distinguish how many gates the residence had.
Yan Chi nodded upon hearing this and said to Yan Li, "We'll take our leave now."
Yan Li hummed in agreement. "Alright, I'll set out in about half an hour. I suppose Seventh Brother will first go to the Marquis' residence and then to Drunken Fragrance Pavilion, which should be just right."
Yan Chi said no more and boarded the carriage first. Qin Guan bowed slightly, then lifted the curtain and entered the carriage as well.
Soon, the carriage began to move slowly.As the carriage began to move, Qin Guan lowered her head to examine the wooden hairpin tucked in her sleeve. Though crafted from fine golden-thread wood, it was ultimately just an ordinary hairpin with a rather simple and unadorned design—hardly comparable in value to gold or jade. Yet for some reason, Qin Guan couldn't shake the feeling that this hairpin in her hand was far from ordinary...
The hairpin appeared aged, with the four characters "Together till white-haired old age" worn almost indistinct. It must have been Princess Consort Gong's favorite hairpin, the one she wore regularly, yet now she had gifted it to Qin Guan.
"Every time I saw the princess consort, she wore this hairpin—it seems she wore it constantly."
Yan Chi noticed Qin Guan's puzzlement and offered a quiet explanation. Qin Guan hesitated before saying, "I can't help feeling presumptuous today, having received something the princess consort holds dear..."
Yan Chi chuckled softly. "It's nothing. She gave it to you because she likes you."
Qin Guan sighed. "What did the princess consort mean when she said she didn't know if we'd have another chance to meet?"
Yan Chi's eyes darkened slightly. "The princess consort hasn't left the royal residence all these years."
Qin Guan was taken aback. No matter how much one cherished peace and quiet, how could anyone stay in one place for ten years without change?
"Do you know about the affairs of Prince Gong's residence?"
Yan Chi's sudden question made Qin Guan's heart skip a beat. She shook her head. "No."
In Qin Guan's memory, since arriving in the capital, she had hardly heard mention of Prince Gong's residence. Being one who seldom went out and having few servants around, she had little opportunity to learn about imperial family stories. Her earlier observations at the residence had already sparked some suspicions, and now, with Yan Chi's words, understanding dawned—Prince Gong's residence was clearly no ordinary royal household.
Yan Chi's expression grew somber, his voice tinged with difficulty. "That was twenty years ago. I was just a toddler with no memory then, and Yan Li was still in swaddling clothes. Yan Li's father, Prince Gong, was a strong contender for the Crown Prince position at the time. The current Emperor was still Prince Luo then. The late Emperor hesitated between the two, unable to decide, especially since they were brothers. Eventually, the late Emperor made his decision—he appointed the current Emperor as Crown Prince and granted Prince Gong a highly desirable fiefdom, Chu Province..."
Qin Guan frowned slightly. She knew of Chu Province—it was even closer to the capital than Yu Province, a place of great prosperity.
"And then?" she asked, already sensing the story would take a dark turn.
Sure enough, Yan Chi continued, "Prince Gong pretended to accept the decision, but on his way to Chu Province, he conspired with the capital garrison troops to stage a coup."
"The capital garrison was then under the command of Princess Consort Gong's brother, Fu Chengye. Prince Gong and Fu Chengye plotted together and nearly breached Lin'an's city defenses. Fortunately, the current Emperor was in charge of the Nine Gates Infantry Command. He led them in holding off the attack for several days until reinforcements arrived from the west. Thus, Prince Gong was defeated. He retreated south with Fu Chengye and their remaining forces, ultimately encountering the imperial troops north of Chu Province at Wind Thunder Ridge. In the ensuing battle, both sides were nearly annihilated. The current Emperor was severely wounded and was later rescued from among the dead when reinforcements arrived."
Qin Guan listened, her heart racing. A coup attempt—this was a crime punishable by execution of one's entire clan!"And Prince Gong?" Qin Guan quickly asked.
Yan Chi's eyes darkened slightly. "Dead. Prince Gong's side used tung oil fire arrows, which ended up setting Wind Thunder Ridge ablaze. The remains of many soldiers were never found, including Prince Gong's."
Qin Guan's lips moved, but for a moment no words came out.
Yan Chi raised his hand to brush his cheek. "Before taking action, Prince Gong sent the princess consort and Yan Li to Chu Zhou. Once this incident occurred, Princess Consort Gong and Yan Li were immediately captured as prisoners and escorted back to the capital. However, the current Emperor couldn't bear to be too harsh - only the Fu Clan was eliminated. The princess consort and Yan Li were confined to the royal residence for a year. After the current Emperor ascended the throne a year later, he issued a pardon. Despite this, the princess consort mostly considers herself a criminal, which is why she has never left the residence all these years. As for Yan Li, he grew up carefree. The longer time passes, the fewer people remember this matter, though the court and imperial family never forget. Because of this, Yan Li has never inherited Prince Gong's title, and I'm afraid he'll remain the heir apparent for life."
The shock in Qin Guan's heart took a long time to subside. No wonder, no wonder Prince Gong's residence appeared neglected, no wonder the scenery within seemed desolate, no wonder Princess Consort Gong desired nothing but to accompany ancient Buddha and dim lamps, no wonder Yan Li's tone sometimes carried a chill. Though all of today's questions had been answered, something heavy pressed on Qin Guan's heart, making it difficult to breathe. When he first met Yan Li, he only saw a carefree young man in red robes, bold and spirited - who could have imagined he had grown up in such circumstances?
Within the imperial family and the capital, with such history preceding him, what kind of looks would others give Yan Li?
"The current Emperor is indeed merciful," Qin Guan couldn't help but sigh.
Yan Chi neither nodded nor denied this, merely saying quietly, "The Empress Dowager is quite fond of Yan Li and often invites him to the palace for company. She initially blamed Prince Gong too, but as she grew older, her mind became somewhat confused, only remembering things that made her happy. Because of this, ordinary people don't dare disrespect Yan Li."
Qin Guan pondered this for a moment - so the Empress Dowager was actually the key figure in this matter.
Thinking this, Qin Guan recalled how Qin Yan had behaved when first meeting Yan Li. At that time, Qin Yan had proactively shown respect, which was quite proper. Probably because of the Empress Dowager, Yan Li still maintained the dignity of an heir apparent.
"So that's what happened, no wonder today..."
Yan Chi nodded. "I knew you must have many questions, so I told you this matter. The older generation remembers it vividly, while most younger commoners have only heard about it. Children from noble families like your third brother know more details. The princess consort has lived as a lay Buddhist all these years, while Yan Li's flamboyant personality and sometimes reckless behavior have displeased imperial elders. However, the Empress Dowager's affection and pity for Yan Li make all this unimportant. Plus, neither Yan Li nor the princess consort have any ambition for power, so they've managed to live peacefully all these years. Only the princess consort has suffered greatly."
Qin Guan nodded. "Yes, the princess consort doesn't resemble ordinary delicate disciples who enter Buddhism. When I saw her earlier, I felt she had no vitality left, as if all her obsessions were gone, like she might dissipate with a gust of wind."Yan Chi took Qin Guan's hand. "In her youth, the Princess Consort was exceptionally beautiful and graceful. The Fu Clan was also an aristocratic family, but later... For these past twenty years, she has lived in ascetic solitude. Had she not retreated into monastic life, she likely wouldn't have endured at all."
Her husband executed for treason, her maternal family exterminated—the thought sent another chill through Qin Guan. Though she herself clung to vengeance after her parents' tragic deaths, Princess Consort Gong had no such recourse: Prince Gong's rebellion was his own undoing. Any reasonable person would acknowledge no one else was to blame, leaving her to survive these twenty years clinging to faint memories.
"The Princess Consort seems to treat you exceptionally well—"
Yan Chi nodded. "She was very close with my father and several other royal uncles in their youth—they often socialized together. After the tragedy, Father occasionally looked after her and Yan Li."
Qin Guan nodded. "I wouldn't have known these details if you hadn't told me."
Yan Chi smiled. "I may take you to Prince Gong's residence someday. Better you understand clearly."
Pressing her lips, Qin Guan demurred, "Best not. We shouldn't disturb her spiritual practice."
One hand held by Yan Chi, the other still clutching the inscribed wooden hairpin, Qin Guan felt his gaze upon it. "These four characters are exquisite..."
Lowering her head, she opened her palm, revealing the clearly carved words: "Together till white-haired age."
"Besides liking you, she gave this because you're the first young lady I've brought before her. She must have seen through us—this pin carries her blessing for our union. Guard it well."
Qin Guan's eyes widened as she stared at the hairpin, warmth rising in her cheeks. "She noticed?"
Yan Chi's laughter deepened while he squeezed her palm. "What did you expect? The residence has received no outsiders for years—only Father, me, a few uncles and cousins have visited."
Blinking slowly, a delayed wave of inexplicable shyness washed over her. She never intended their affection to be publicly displayed, yet now it was exposed—and to Princess Consort Gong no less. Watching her dazed, slightly stunned expression, Yan Chi's amusement grew. Usually composed and dignified, Qin Guan remained at heart a bashful maiden in matters of romance. His laughter subsiding into tender affection, he drew her into an embrace.
Qin Guan struggled briefly, futilely, and grumbled, "No wonder you insisted on taking me there—you knew she'd see right through us!"
His chest vibrated with mirth. "What does it matter if she knows?"
She meant to protest further, but reconsidered—Yan Chi wasn't wrong. Though reserved, Princess Consort Gong felt deeply approachable; perhaps her knowing wasn't so terrible.
After a pause, Yan Chi asked, "Well? Are you angry?"
Qin Guan's lips curved. "Why would I be?"
Retreating slightly in surprise, he studied her face—indeed seeing only a faint smile—and his eyes brightened. "You've changed your mind?"
Tilting her head thoughtfully, she murmured, "Not exactly..."
Narrowing his eyes, Yan Chi pressed, "Then what is it?""There is nothing dark between us that cannot be brought to light." Qin Guan looked earnestly at Yan Chi, her eyes clear and bright. "The current situation is merely a temporary measure. The princess consort is no stranger to you, so it should pose no issue."
Seeing her solemn expression, Yan Chi couldn't help but raise his hand to caress her cheek. Gradually, his gaze deepened. "I naturally follow your wishes, but... the capital is full of prying eyes. I only worry you might be seen by others..."
Qin Guan was momentarily stunned, then responded with amused exasperation, "How could that happen?"
Yan Chi let out a soft hum and suddenly asked, "What happened at the Drunken Fragrance Pavilion?"
Qin Guan blinked, realizing Yan Chi likely knew most of her affairs. She decided not to conceal anything and directly recounted the details and circumstances of that day. Yan Chi listened with a slight frown. "So you were involved in this incident as well."
Prince Cheng's recent setback had caused quite a stir, and Yan Chi had naturally heard about it. But he hadn't expected Qin Guan to be present when it occurred. His expression immediately turned stern. "From now on, you must not interfere in the conflicts between Prince Cheng and the Crown Prince's faction."
Qin Guan understood Yan Chi's concern and quickly replied, "I know what you mean..."
Yan Chi shook his head. "No, you don't fully understand. The struggles within the royal family are far more brutal than you imagine."
Meeting Yan Chi's serious gaze, Qin Guan recognized the depth of his worry and nodded. "I understand. I will act according to the circumstances."
Yan Chi sighed. "If a dying person were placed before you, you would still save them. If you didn't, you wouldn't be yourself." After a pause, he added, "So you see, this is how others might exploit you."
Qin Guan shook her head. "Do you think I am so easily swayed?" Just as Yan Chi was about to speak, she continued, "Besides, who could compare to Your Highness's unparalleled elegance and peerless grace?"
Yan Chi was momentarily taken aback before pulling Qin Guan into his embrace. "What else?"
Qin Guan's eyes sparkled mischievously. "And no one can match Your Highness's extraordinary skills and unwavering loyalty."
Yan Chi tightened his arms around her. "What else?"
Qin Guan pressed her lips together briefly, her tone growing more earnest. "Most importantly, no one understands my heart like Your Highness. You know me, protect me, and cherish me..."
Qin Guan had been speaking with utmost sincerity, but before she could finish, Yan Chi's kiss descended upon her. Unlike the gentle, watery kisses before, this one was fervent. He held her tightly, as if wanting to press her into his chest. While his lips plundered, his hands roamed her shoulders and back. Moments later, one hand gradually slid toward her hips. Just as he was about to succeed, Qin Guan suddenly grabbed his hand and pushed him away, retreating from his embrace. Breathing heavily, she looked up to see eyes filled with raw desire. Her heart trembled, and she pressed herself against the carriage wall, not daring to move.
Yan Chi's scorching gaze lingered on Qin Guan for a moment before he suddenly leaned forward and pulled her into his arms. Their chests pressed together, and Qin Guan could feel the powerful beat of Yan Chi's heart. Combined with his slightly heavy breathing, it made her face burn even hotter.
"Next time, you'd better come up with a few more compliments."
Yan Chi's warm breath brushed against Qin Guan's neck, sending a shiver through her. It took her a moment to understand what he meant.
She shifted her position, nestling more comfortably into Yan Chi's embrace, her heart overflowing with a profound sweetness.She could feel the warmth radiating from Yan Chi, could catch the scent that was uniquely his. Suddenly, the late-night longing that had accumulated over these past days surged in her heart—the bitterness of yearning yet being unable to meet still lingered. Thus, this warm embrace felt all the more precious. She missed him deeply, though she hadn’t shown overwhelming joy. She herself knew how profound her longing was. With these thoughts, a desire to linger intimately with Yan Chi arose within her. In the past, she had been ignorant of matters of the heart, unaware of the depth of romantic feelings. But now she finally understood—those tales of talented scholars and beauties, of lovesickness turning into illness, were all true. Taking a deep breath, she quickly composed herself. Just then, the carriage gradually came to a halt. Qin Guan knew they were about to arrive at the Loyal Marquis Manor.
Qin Guan had intended to withdraw from Yan Chi’s embrace, but at this moment, she felt reluctant to let go.
Just as she wished to linger in his arms a little longer, the sound of a door opening abruptly broke the silence, and Fuling’s voice rang out sharply.
“Guard Bai?! Is the young lady in the carriage?”
All of Qin Guan’s desires vanished instantly. She pulled away abruptly, straightened her posture, and instinctively smoothed her clothes. Her movements were fluid yet carried a hint of fluster. Yan Chi felt both unwilling to part and amused by how this liveliness made Qin Guan appear even more vibrant and delicate. His smile deepened. In that brief moment, Fuling had already approached the carriage.
“Young lady? Are you inside?”
Qin Guan glanced at Yan Chi, then bent slightly and moved toward the carriage door. But after taking just one step, she paused, turned back to Yan Chi, leaned in close, and whispered eight words swiftly by his ear:
“My heart is not a stone; it cannot be turned.”
Having said this, Qin Guan descended from the carriage even more quickly.
The carriage curtain lifted and fell. Yan Chi instinctively reached out a hand, but halfway, Qin Guan had already disappeared. The curtain swayed gently, leaving Yan Chi somewhat dazed. My heart is not a stone; it cannot be turned. Since I have chosen you, how could I hesitate, waver, or turn my heart to another?
Yan Chi’s phoenix eyes narrowed slightly, the corners of his lips slowly curving upward. The carriage still carried her fragrance, and her breath lingered in his ears. His outstretched hand suddenly clenched into a fist. The desires he had struggled to suppress now surged forth once more, flooding his gaze…
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