Coroner's Diary

"Oh, this must be the esteemed Ninth Miss of your household—"

Before Qin Guan could reach the doorway, a rather sharp voice rang out first. Qin Guan hurried her steps to the entrance, and upon entering, she saw that besides Qin Shu and a few others, there were also several eunuchs dressed in black court robes inside the room.

Qin Guan first curtsied to Qin Shu. Though she kept her eyes lowered and held her breath, her peripheral vision still caught glimpses of their appearances.

She didn’t recognize the junior eunuchs, but she did recognize the one leading them. However, she naturally couldn’t reveal this in the slightest.

"Wan Yatou, this is the Chief Eunuch of the Inner Palace, Eunuch Yuan."

Qin Shu introduced with a smile, and Qin Guan curtsied again to Yuan Qing. "Greetings, Eunuch."

Yuan Qing was nearly fifty, with a pale, beardless face and graying hair. He was slightly plump, with a round face and broad cheeks. When he smiled, his eyes narrowed, giving an initial impression of benevolence, much like the Maitreya Buddha. Yet, once one met his gaze, they would find that those eyes, brimming with laughter, were sharp and perceptive—

Qin Guan kept her head bowed, feeling a gaze fixed on the top of her head. Though her expression was one of a young girl’s innocence and gentleness, she dared not let her guard down in her heart. This Chief Eunuch was a veteran of two dynasties, having served the late emperor first, and then continuing to serve the current Emperor to this day. Not only did Qin Guan dare not show disrespect, but even Qin Shu treated him with great courtesy.

"Ninth Miss, please rise quickly. How could this old servant dare accept your courtesy?" Yuan Qing sidestepped her curtsy while scrutinizing Qin Guan, then said with a smile, "When the Grand Princess’s letter arrived in the capital, His Majesty was quite surprised, saying that the Anyang Marquis already had both sons and daughters, so how could he have taken in another adopted granddaughter? At the time, this old servant remarked that this young lady must be an extraordinary person, for how could someone as proud and discerning as the Grand Princess casually acknowledge someone as her granddaughter? Now that I’ve seen you today, this old servant’s guess is confirmed… Ninth Miss’s beauty is truly unparalleled in the capital…"

Seeing that Yuan Qing’s words were all lavish praise, Qin Guan quickly replied, "Eunuch, you flatter me too much. I truly do not deserve such praise."

Yuan Qing chuckled, "You do deserve it, you do. Ninth Miss may not know this, but the Grand Princess in her youth was even more forthright and unrestrained than the late emperor, and her standards were exceedingly high. Very few could truly catch her eye. Because of this, His Majesty mentioned a few times that he wished to see what kind of person Ninth Miss is. This old servant thought, since His Majesty wishes to meet you, why not take advantage of the New Year’s banquet? His Majesty agreed that this was the perfect opportunity—"

Qin Guan’s heart stirred slightly. The New Year’s banquet? Was she being asked to attend the New Year’s banquet?

Seeing Qin Guan’s slight hesitation, Qin Shu smiled and said, "Wan Yatou, why aren’t you thanking him for the grace?"

Qin Guan snapped back to attention. "Thank you for His Majesty’s grace."

Yuan Qing chuckled warmly, "Besides the banquet, this old servant has also come to deliver gifts. In addition to the rewards for the Marquis, his wife, the heir apparent, and the young ladies, there is a separate gift for Ninth Miss. His Majesty already knows that Ninth Miss is no ordinary young woman and holds you in high esteem. There are still half a day left—Ninth Miss should prepare yourself well to attend the palace banquet this evening."

Qin Guan was slightly taken aback, uncertain in her heart about the meaning behind this "high esteem."

The Grand Princess had mentioned that she would send a letter to the capital. Qin Guan had initially assumed the Grand Princess would simply ask the servants in the capital to look after her, but she hadn’t expected the letter to be sent directly to the palace. Could it be that the Grand Princess had also mentioned her knowledge of medicine?Qin Guan thought it highly plausible and bowed once more in gratitude.

Yuan Qing smiled, "This old servant has delivered the rewards and imperial decree, so it's time to return to the palace."

Upon hearing this, Qin Shu naturally urged him to stay a while longer and had someone fetch a small trinket for Yuan Qing before seeing him out. After Yuan Qing left, Qin Guan stood rooted to the spot, momentarily dazed. When Qin Shu returned, his tone was filled with emotion, "I truly never expected... never expected Grand Princess to send a handwritten letter. This truly means she regards Wan Yatou as her own adopted granddaughter."

Besides Qin Shu, Hu Shi and Qin Chaoyu were also in the room. Hu Shi seemed equally surprised by Yuan Qing's visit and the fact that the Emperor himself wished for Qin Guan to attend the palace banquet. After all, only Qin Yan and Qin Chaoyu were originally eligible to attend the New Year's banquet. Though her feelings were complex, Hu Shi still smiled and said, "Indeed, indeed. For His Majesty to wish to see Wan Yatou is truly a blessing for her."

Qin Chaoyu stood nearby, the corners of her lips slightly upturned, her bright eyes carrying a profound meaning. "Ninth Sister is truly fortunate. Just now, Eunuch Yuan praised Ninth Sister's appearance extensively. Surely, when she stands before His Majesty, she'll receive even more commendation. Since His Majesty already holds Ninth Sister in high esteem, perhaps he might summon her for a private audience tonight."

Qin Shu nodded, "That's entirely possible. I recall Wan Yatou initially gained connection with Marquis Anyang Manor because her medical skills accidentally saved Grand Princess. I suspect His Majesty has also learned of Wan Yatou's exceptional medical abilities." As he spoke, Qin Shu turned to Hu Shi. "Quickly make preparations for Wan Yatou. She must attend the banquet tonight..."

Though there was still ample time, attending a palace banquet was not to be taken lightly. Hu Shi promptly nodded, "Very well, very well. Fortunately, the dress we ordered earlier has been rushed and delivered to the manor. I'll just need to instruct Wan Yatou on the etiquette."

Qin Shu nodded in approval. Noticing Qin Guan wore her usual faint smile without any visible excitement or elation, he silently commended her composure. Thinking time was of the essence, Hu Shi immediately led Qin Guan toward her own courtyard. Qin Chaoyu followed along. Even after entering Hu Shi's main chamber, Qin Guan's expression remained unchanged, prompting Qin Chaoyu to remark, "Ninth Sister has received such joyous news, yet you don't seem happy or delighted?"

Qin Guan's lips curved slightly with a hint of unease. "Eighth Sister must find this amusing. I've never entered the palace before and feel rather apprehensive. I don't even know what the palace looks like. Even if I am joyful, I dare not lose my composure."

Hu Shi immediately laughed heartily. "If I may say so, Wan Yatou's temperament is truly rare. Anyone else receiving such news would surely leap for joy, yet Wan Yatou can maintain her calm."

Upon hearing this, Qin Guan's smile widened. "Aunt flatters me. In truth, I simply don't know how to conduct myself and must rely on Aunt's guidance."

After a moment's thought, Hu Shi said, "It's not difficult. There will be many attendees at tonight's banquet. As long as we follow the rules, we typically won't make mistakes. We'll depart at Shen hour and arrive at Zhenghua Gate by half-past Shen. Due to the crowd, we'll likely have to queue for inspection by the palace guards. Once we enter Zhenghua Gate, a young eunuch will guide us. Then, we'll follow him through the Outer Yi Gate. The banquet tonight is set in Chongming Hall, located in the outer court. The etiquette isn't too complicated—just remember to keep your eyes lowered, observe more, and speak less..."Hu Shi spoke in great detail, explaining every particular to Qin Guan. Having entered the palace several times before, Qin Guan realized upon hearing Hu Shi’s words that this year’s rules were no different from previous ones, and she began to form her own plans. After discussing the rules, Hu Shi instructed the servants to select the outfits that had been delivered to the manor. On the day they visited the Brocade Embroidery Workshop, each of the sisters had been measured for two sets of clothing. Hu Shi first had Qin Shuang’s and Qin Xiang’s outfits sent to them, then personally picked out two sets for Qin Guan.

Both outfits were made from the finest fabrics and featured the latest styles from the Brocade Embroidery Workshop. One set consisted of a water-colored, oblique-collared short jacket with moon-white trim embroidered with orchid patterns, paired with a crab-shell green pleated long skirt—elegant, refined, and ethereal. The other set was a blushing-pink short jacket with peach blossom embroidery, matched with a Xiangfei-colored gambiered gauze long skirt—vibrant in color, noble, and luxurious. After examining them carefully, Hu Shi finally chose the second set for Qin Guan.

“During the New Year, everyone dresses festively. You usually prefer plain colors, but it wouldn’t be appropriate to appear too subdued when entering the palace this time. This set was specially prepared for you by the master at the Brocade Embroidery Workshop, as I instructed that day. Although the color is bright, the embroidery is simple and elegant. It looks somewhat luxurious yet still retains an element of ‘plainness.’ Someone with ordinary looks might not carry it off well, but you are different. It’s settled then—this set is perfectly suitable for your palace visit…”

Qin Guan had never been overly concerned with clothing and accessories, so she readily agreed. Just as Hu Shi was about to sit down with Qin Guan to continue their conversation, Qin Yan suddenly arrived at Hu Shi’s room. After bowing respectfully, Qin Yan urgently said, “Ninth Sister, Lord Zheng is here. Come with me.”

Hearing this, a faint light flickered in Qin Guan’s eyes. Qin Chaoyu, noticing this, asked curiously, “Brother, Prefect Zheng is here?” When Qin Yan nodded, Qin Chaoyu pressed further, “Why does Prefect Zheng’s visit require Ninth Sister to go?”

Qin Yan waved his hand dismissively. “Don’t ask about it now. Ninth Sister, let’s go.”

Qin Guan knew that Zheng Baishi’s visit was likely related to the case. Compared to discussing attire with Hu Shi, the case was far more pressing. Seeing this, Hu Shi also said, “Alright, alright, hurry along now.”

Qin Guan curtseyed and followed Qin Yan out of Hu Shi’s main door.

Once they had left, Qin Chaoyu glanced at the outfit and frowned slightly. “Mother, do you know what this is about?”

Although Qin Shu did not keep governmental affairs from Qin Chaoyu, this matter involved a death case, and Qin Chaoyu had not inquired about it in the past two days. Thus, she was unaware that Qin Guan had assisted with the corpse examination. Seeing her curiosity, Hu Shi took her hand and briefly explained. When she finished recounting how Qin Guan had helped with the examination, Qin Chaoyu’s expression shifted slightly. “She actually has such a skill?”

Hu Shi nodded. “Indeed. Not only did you not expect it, but even your father and I were surprised.”

After a moment’s thought, Qin Chaoyu shook her head and let out a cold laugh. “Studying medicine is one thing, but the path of a coroner is a lowly occupation. As a young lady of Qin Manor, how could she engage in such work?”

Hu Shi shook her head. “We had no choice but to let her try. And now, Lord Zheng believes she was helpful, which is why he has come to the manor again. Regardless, it’s good that she can assist. Besides, no one outside knows about this, so it won’t harm her reputation or that of our marquisate. Right now, the Crown Prince is concerned about this case—we cannot refuse help when it is available.”

Qin Chaoyu nodded. “That is true—”Qin Chaoyu naturally hoped the case would be solved soon, but she was surprised that Qin Guan could contribute in such matters. Not only surprised, she even felt a faint unease in her heart. As a noble daughter of Qin Manor, though an orphan, Qin Guan engaged in tasks despised by aristocratic families—this was not a good thing, yet she could actually be of help...

Hu Shi watched Qin Chaoyu's expression closely. "What's wrong, Yu'er?"

Qin Chaoyu snapped back to reality and glanced at the dress prepared for Qin Guan. After a long pause, she took a deep breath and said, "Nothing. It's good that the manor has capable people." Then she suddenly asked, "Does the Crown Prince know about this?"

Hu Shi frowned. "I don't know about that. Your father hasn't seen the Crown Prince these past two days, and I can't confirm whether Lord Zheng mentioned it. Why? Do you think we shouldn't tell the Crown Prince?"

Qin Chaoyu narrowed her eyes, a flicker of hesitation seeming to pass through them. A moment later, the corners of her lips curled into a smile tinged with sharpness. "There's no question of whether we should. What does it matter if the Crown Prince knows?" With that, she stood up, took Hu Shi's hand, and said, "Mother, come with me to Chaoyi Court to see what I should wear today..."

Hu Shi rose, beaming with joy. "My daughter looks beautiful in anything."

As Hu Shi and her daughter left, Qin Guan had already met Zheng Baishi in the study. Besides Zheng Baishi, Zhan Yang had also come along, and the two had brought a bundle with them.

Zheng Baishi's eyes were filled with deep anger as he said, "How audacious! He seemed like an extremely honest person and had served in the Lin'an Prefecture office for many years, yet he dared to obstruct official duties like this. He claimed a stranger approached him over half a month ago, offering a hundred taels of silver just to hinder the investigation."

Qin Shu frowned. "Two people had already died over half a month ago."

"Exactly," Zheng Baishi said irritably. "Two people were dead, and The Emperor already knew about it. At that time, he had just urged the Crown Prince to personally oversee the matter. We had already secured the evidence from the first two victims, so it wasn't convenient for that person to act. When the third victim appeared, he directly stole the deceased's clothing. Afraid that the clothing might be found midway, he hid it in the most unexpected place—the dormitory of the prefecture office. He said he intended to burn it when he had the chance, but the dormitory was too crowded, and he never found the right moment. In the end, we uncovered it at this time."

As he spoke, Zheng Baishi pointed. "Ninth Miss, take a look. The clothing and the sachet are both here."

Qin Guan had been summoned specifically to examine them. Hearing this, she stepped forward and opened the bundle. She first inspected the sachet on top and shook her head. "There's nothing unusual about this sachet."

Zheng Baishi and Qin Shu exchanged glances. Zheng Baishi smiled wryly. "If he had known the sachet wasn't important, he probably wouldn't have stolen it. Fortunately, Ninth Miss suggested examining the sachet that day, or we might never have discovered this person's existence."

In just one night, Zheng Baishi and Zhan Yang had actually uncovered the mole, and the presence of a mole confirmed Qin Guan's suspicions. Zheng Baishi increasingly felt that seeking Qin Guan's help was the right decision. As he was thinking this, he noticed Qin Guan intently studying the third victim's short jacket. He stepped closer. "Ninth Miss, what's wrong with this clothing?"Qin Guan glanced at the bundle. "These clothes have been stored for too long and have grown moldy. Besides some dust and stains, there are other stains on the deceased's sleeve cuffs and skirt hem."

As she spoke, a cold glint flashed in Qin Guan's palm, revealing a small dagger. She leaned forward and carefully scraped off the stain adhering to the short jacket's cuff with the blade. Soon, a few specks of pale yellow residue appeared on the dagger's edge. Others were blocked by Qin Guan's leaning posture, but Zheng Baishi caught sight of the sharp blade. He promptly remarked, "Ninth Miss, this dagger of yours truly gleams with a chilling light."

Qin Guan's expression remained unchanged, though the corners of her lips lifted slightly. "It was a gift from a friend. It often comes in handy during medical practice."

Zheng Baishi said no more. Qin Guan placed the residue in her palm and swiftly tucked the dagger back into her sleeve.

She pinched the residue between her fingers, brought it to her nose for a light sniff, and soon, her eyes brightened.

Zhan Yang was even more anxious than Zheng Baishi. "Ninth Miss, what is it?"

Qin Guan looked at Zhan Yang, her eyes shining like brilliant stars. "It's medicine—"

"Medicine? What kind of medicine?" Zheng Baishi hurriedly asked as well.

Qin Guan sniffed it once more, then concentrated and pondered. Suddenly, a flash of insight struck her mind. "It's an ointment for chilblains. It contains over ten ingredients like aconite, fritillary bulb, aconite root, cinnamon twig, saposhnikovia root, and teasel root. If I recall correctly, it should be a specific chilblain ointment called Yanghe Jiening Ointment. The third victim showed no signs of chilblains on their hands or body, so this ointment definitely wasn't used by the deceased. Since the stains are on both the sleeve cuffs and skirt hem, it was either left by the killer or accidentally transferred by a yamen constable. Do any of the constables in the yamen suffer from chilblains?"

Upon hearing this, Zheng Baishi immediately looked at Zhan Yang, who shook his head. "None of them do."

Qin Guan nodded. "Then it's most likely left by the killer. This ointment is highly effective, especially for severe chilblains, but it's also quite expensive. Typically, only moderately wealthy families use it regularly. However, it's possible someone desperate to recover would spend the money. The murders all occurred in the southern part of the city. If we assume the killer's usual area of activity is also in the south, we can investigate the pharmacies there. This ointment uses costly ingredients but spoils easily—it must be used within half a month of preparation to remain effective. Ordinary small pharmacies are reluctant to stock it, as unsold inventory would result in significant losses. Not every pharmacy in the southern city would carry this ointment."

After saying this, Qin Guan thought for another moment. "No such ointment was found on the second victim's clothes, meaning the killer started using it after the second murder. Moreover, their chilblains must be quite severe. Based on this, the killer likely hasn't recovered yet and must have purchased this ointment at least two or three times by now. The chilblain ointment, the hiding place with stairs, and the large area previously outlined by the Crown Prince—Zhan Butou, start by checking the pharmacies, then see who lives nearby, and investigate those people's workplaces and residences. We're bound to find something."At this point, Zhan Yang clearly understood how to proceed with the investigation. Zheng Baishi also felt a sudden clarity before him. "Ninth Miss is truly remarkable. Fortunately, Ninth Miss is trained in medicine and could identify what this substance is. Anyone else would have been completely in the dark."

Qin Shu quickly added, "Brother Zheng, we only have half a day left. I wonder if it will be enough time?"

Zheng Baishi sighed. "We must do our best. I will go with Zhan Yang to make arrangements now, so we won't stay any longer—"

Knowing time was pressing, Qin Shu didn't detain them further. He and Qin Yan saw Zheng Baishi and Zhan Yang out. After the two had left, Qin Shu turned to look at Qin Guan inside the room and said, "Wan Yatou, if this case is truly solved, you will be the one who deserves the foremost credit!"