Coroner's Diary

"Ninth Sister, you're also entering the palace?!"

Qin Shuang stared in astonishment at Qin Guan, who was changing her dress. Behind her stood Qin Xiang, who had come to Pine Breeze Courtyard for the first time. Having learned that Qin Guan would be entering the palace that evening alongside Qin Shu and the others, Qin Xiang couldn't resist coming over.

Qin Guan allowed Fuling to adjust her skirt hem and nodded, "Yes, messengers from the palace came this morning to inform me."

Qin Shuang blinked, taking a moment to process this before exclaiming, "Heavens, you can actually enter the palace now." She stepped closer, "Wasn't it only Eighth Sister and Third Brother who were supposed to go?"

Before Qin Guan could respond, Fuling smiled and explained, "Sixth Young Miss, it's Her Highness the Grand Princess. The Grand Princess sent a letter back to the capital, and then His Majesty learned about our young lady and wished to meet her."

Qin Shuang suddenly understood, "So that's how it is, I was wondering..."

Qin Xiang stepped forward. Though all four sisters' dresses were made from the same fabric, for some reason Qin Xiang felt Qin Guan's material seemed slightly finer. When worn by Qin Guan, the dress appeared particularly elegant and luxurious.

"If not for the Grand Princess, how could Ninth Sister enter the palace? They say a person's luck is truly strange - with good fortune, one can reach great heights instantly. Even the most unremarkable person can suddenly transform into a phoenix perching on a golden branch."

Her words carried a distinct note of envy. Though Qin Shuang also felt somewhat overshadowed by Qin Guan's palace invitation, she found Qin Xiang's comment excessive. Raising an eyebrow, Qin Shuang retorted, "Fifth Sister, you're mistaken there. While luck is indeed luck, if it had been you who encountered the Grand Princess that day, forget about treating her illness - you probably wouldn't have even given her a second glance, would you?"

This immediately caused Qin Xiang's expression to darken, but Qin Shuang wasn't finished. "Come to think of it, Fifth Sister, you've met the Grand Princess before. If you truly had any exceptional qualities, why didn't the Grand Princess adopt you as her honorary granddaughter?"

Qin Xiang frowned sharply, "What do you mean by that?!"

Qin Shuang giggled, "I don't mean anything else. I'm just saying I know my own limitations. If Ninth Sister is unremarkable, then I must be completely worthless. And Fifth Sister, I'd estimate you're about the same as me."

Qin Shuang maintained her cheerful smile while Qin Xiang glared at her, brows furrowed in anger. However, Qin Xiang could neither curse nor strike out. Seeing Qin Shuang's mocking expression only infuriated her further. After casting a glance at the composed Qin Guan and another at the mischievously smiling Qin Shuang, Qin Xiang snorted and turned to leave.

Watching Qin Xiang depart, Qin Shuang snorted herself before turning to Qin Guan. "She's just jealous of you. What's worse is that she lacks self-awareness. I don't know how she has the nerve to talk about you like that."

Fuling and Baiying, who had been listening nearby, exchanged glances but remained silent.

In the past, Qin Shuang had often been at the forefront of Qin Xiang's bullying campaigns against Qin Guan. Now that Qin Shuang had come to her senses while Qin Xiang remained unchanged, they felt somewhat vindicated seeing Qin Shuang leave Qin Xiang speechless.

After the skirt adjustments were complete, Qin Guan turned to Qin Shuang. "She's no longer the most favored young lady of Qin Manor as she once was, so naturally she feels resentful. Seeing that I can enter the palace only adds to her dissatisfaction."

Qin Shuang responded, "But we can't just let her say whatever she wants. How come you never lose your temper?"Qin Guan's lips curved slightly. "It's not that I have no temper, but I know verbal disputes are mostly futile. I'm afraid it would only make her more biased in her thinking. If that were the case, I fear even greater hardships await her in the future. I can't be bothered to temper her disposition, and she wouldn't listen to my advice anyway." After a brief pause, her tone deepened. "A few words are one thing, but if she continues like this without restraint, I'm afraid others will naturally teach her a lesson someday—"

Qin Shuang felt an involuntary tightness in her chest upon hearing Qin Guan's cool words. "You... I also think she can't go on like this, but after all, she's our sister. I don't want to see her suffer like last time again."

Qin Guan's dark hair cascaded over her shoulders as Fuling guided her to sit before the dressing table, intending to style her hair.

After taking her seat, Qin Guan said, "It would be good if you could make her behave, but from what I see, she doesn't seem likely to settle down easily. If she truly refuses to listen to you, who else can help her?"

Qin Guan bore no ill will toward Qin Xiang, yet she genuinely disliked her. While she could tolerate verbal disrespect, she didn't know whether others would endure Qin Xiang's temperament in the future. Both Qin Xiang and Qin Shuang used to share the same disposition. Now that Qin Shuang had improved, Qin Xiang remained unchanged. Though Qin Guan often felt compassion for the vulnerable, she was no savior bodhisattva and had no obligation to enlighten Qin Xiang. As for Qin Shuang, having grown up with Qin Xiang, it would be best if Qin Xiang heeded her advice. If not, then let her learn her lesson the hard way.

Qin Shuang sighed. "As things stand, how could she possibly listen to me... The capital's wealth and luxury are undeniable, but they conceal countless Mechanisms and Secret passages. Though I envy your entry into the palace, you must be cautious today. I've heard the rules are extremely strict, and those accompanying you are from noble families even more powerful than our Marquis household. The esteemed figures in the palace go without saying."

Hearing this, Qin Guan felt a warmth in her heart. "Don't worry, I'll be with Aunt and won't make any mistakes."

Qin Shuang sighed again. "True, you've always been meticulous in everything you do. There certainly won't be any mishaps."

Fuling, listening nearby, sensed Qin Shuang's genuine concern for Qin Guan and chimed in, "Thank you, Sixth Young Lady, for worrying about our Young Lady."

Qin Shuang's smile deepened. "There's no need for thanks among sisters." As she watched Fuling style Qin Guan's hair, she noticed the lack of ornaments and went to select a few more for her. Delighted, Fuling joined Qin Shuang in persuading Qin Guan to adorn herself with several accessories, breaking from her usual simplicity. Once fully adorned, Qin Shuang circled Qin Guan several times, clicking her tongue in admiration.

"Truly, you usually dress too plainly. With just a little embellishment, you look absolutely..."

She then grabbed a rouge compact from the dressing table. "Listen to me, how about applying a bit of rouge?"

Qin Guan quickly waved her hand in refusal. "Let's skip that. Although we're entering the palace, it's not appropriate to wear heavy makeup." She tilted her chin toward Fuling. "It's about time. Go pick out a cape."

Fuling acknowledged and hurried to the wardrobe. After some deliberation, she selected a silver-red cape embroidered with white butterflies and floral patterns. Qin Guan glanced back and frowned immediately. "Bring something more plain."

Fuling hesitated. "Young Lady, Eighth Young Lady favors red. If you're too plainly dressed..."Qin Shuang nodded in agreement upon hearing this, "Indeed, Eighth Sister has always favored red. You should wear something brighter and more vibrant."

Qin Guan chuckled lightly, "I'm not competing with Eighth Sister for beauty. Besides, on an occasion like today, I'm not the one who should be showcasing my radiance." Seeing that Fuling and Qin Shuang still seemed unconvinced, Qin Guan added, "Being too conspicuous isn't necessarily a good thing."

At these words, Fuling and Qin Shuang exchanged a glance, finally understanding the underlying meaning. Noticing Fuling's comprehension, Qin Guan said, "Just bring the cape I usually wear."

After a moment's thought, Fuling ultimately brought the white fox-fur cape that Qin Yan had previously gifted—this fur was of the finest quality.

Seeing it, Qin Guan felt the snowy white could temper the brightness of her attire and didn't refuse. She had just fastened the cape when Qin Yan arrived at the entrance of Pine Breeze Courtyard, "Ninth Sister? Are you ready?"

Qin Guan stepped forward, "All set. Shall we leave now?"

Qin Yan was also dressed splendidly today in a silver robe and jade crown, looking exceptionally dashing. As soon as he reached the doorway, his eyes fell upon Qin Guan standing inside, and a spark of admiration flashed in his gaze, his smile broadening. "Yes, we'll leave now. Today, none of us are bringing attendants. Let's go."

Knowing this custom, Qin Guan nodded and followed Qin Yan out.

Fine snowflakes continued to fall, and as soon as they stepped outside, a biting cold wind greeted them. Inside, Fuling and Qin Shuang exchanged another glance. Since they had nothing else to do, they followed at a distance until Qin Guan reached the main courtyard. There, they saw Qin Shu clad in a deep purple official uniform, while Hu Shi wore her court attire bestowed by Imperial Mandate Title. Qin Chaoyu stood beside Hu Shi, as expected, dressed in a strikingly vibrant red gown.

Qin Guan wore no makeup, unlike Qin Chaoyu. Despite the deep winter, Qin Chaoyu had applied a peach blossom makeup today. Her radiant cosmetics, combined with her inherently charming eyes and brows, made Qin Shuang and Fuling feel that Qin Chaoyu shone brilliantly, dazzling in her splendor...

As Qin Guan approached, Qin Chaoyu and the others scrutinized her briefly. Qin Chaoyu glanced at Qin Guan, a flicker of satisfaction in her eyes. Though Qin Guan possessed exceptional natural beauty, she hadn't adorned herself lavishly today. Apart from wearing the dress Hu Shi had selected, she had only added two jade hairpins. Moreover, the dress's vivid colors were subdued by the white fox-fur cape she wore over it. While somewhat pleased, Qin Chaoyu also grew intensely wary of Qin Guan.

First, there was her outstanding appearance. Second, her medical skills and expertise in the Coroner's Path had aided the Marquis' household. Now, this discernment to avoid outshining others startled Qin Chaoyu once more. As a woman, and a proud one at that, Qin Chaoyu found herself unable to pinpoint any flaw in Qin Guan. Though Qin Guan wore no makeup and was draped in a white cape, Qin Chaoyu instinctively straightened her own skirt. In terms of appearance, she had exerted eighty percent of her effort, while Qin Guan had used at most forty percent. Yet, even so, Qin Chaoyu felt no certainty of victory. This wasn't the first time she had observed Qin Guan and found her impeccable. Those seeing Qin Guan for the first time today would surely be astounded. Qin Chaoyu subtly clenched the handkerchief in her hand and lifted her chin haughtily.

"Wan Yatou is here, so let's prepare to depart."

Qin Shu, unlike Qin Chaoyu and Hu Shi, harbored no such intricate thoughts, merely content that Qin Guan was appropriately attired.At his command, the group headed toward the mansion gate once more. Hu Shi, holding Qin Chaoyu with one hand and Qin Guan with the other, naturally showered both with praise. Upon reaching the entrance, they saw two horses, two carriages, and five or six attendants waiting outside the mansion gate.

"Wan Yatou will ride in one carriage, your aunt and the other in another. Your third brother and I will ride horses," Qin Shu gently informed Qin Guan. She acknowledged and walked to the rear carriage.

With a beaming smile, Hu Shi led Qin Chaoyu into the first carriage. As soon as they boarded, the smile on Qin Chaoyu’s face faded slightly.

"Mother, what do you think?" Her question was brief, but Hu Shi understood her meaning.

Forcing a smile, Hu Shi replied, "Don’t worry. Wherever you go, you’ll always be the most striking."

At these words, Qin Chaoyu frowned. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes, suppressing the frustration in her heart. "Forget it. After all, today she can only trail behind us. This is a grand banquet, not a small gathering, and she’s dressed too plainly. At a glance, who would even notice her?"

Hu Shi quickly nodded. "Exactly. Just relax. We can’t afford any mistakes today."

Qin Chaoyu lifted her chin. "I know. Don’t worry, Mother. If necessary, I’ll look after her."

The carriage moved forward slowly. Sitting alone in the rear, Qin Guan was unaware that Qin Chaoyu and Hu Shi, in the carriage ahead, were troubled by her appearance. She had only visited the palace a few times before, with no intention of competing for attention. She merely found the dazzlingly ornate attire of the palace residents overwhelming, unaware that many went to great lengths with their attire for every banquet, large or small.

The carriage traveled along the main road in front of the marquis’s residence, then exited Xingle Ward and entered the Imperial Road. Since Xingle Ward was relatively close to the imperial city, Qin Guan soon caught sight of the towering palace gate and walls in the distance through the window. Gradually, the carriage slowed down. Peeking out, she saw lavishly decorated carriages moving leisurely ahead and behind, a testament to the grandeur of the New Year’s banquet.

Noticing Qin Guan lifting the curtain, Qin Yan rode up beside her carriage and said quietly, "Don’t worry. Everyone’s arriving around this time, so the Imperial Road is crowded and naturally slower. Just follow Mother later."

Qin Guan nodded. "Third Brother, don’t worry—"

Qin Yan smiled, confident that Qin Guan could handle it, and rode ahead again.

Just then, another carriage pulled up beside Qin Guan’s. The carriages on the road moved one after another, politely yielding and maintaining a steady pace. However, this carriage, approaching from behind, was moving swiftly and attempted to squeeze past Qin Guan’s carriage. The two carriages drew dangerously close. With a faint "crack," Qin Guan’s carriage jolted violently. Frowning inside, she felt the horse startled by the impact suddenly neigh and rear up. The carriage lurched forward and came to an abrupt halt. The driver frantically reined in the horse, causing chaos among the carriages behind.

"Ninth Sister, are you all right?!" Qin Yan rushed to Qin Guan’s carriage and urgently asked.

Qin Guan quickly lifted the curtain and shook her head.

She was a little startled, but it was nothing serious.Qin Yan breathed a sigh of relief, but Qin Guan's attention remained fixed on the carriage. "Third Brother, whose carriage is that, charging through so recklessly?"

Qin Guan narrowed her eyes slightly. "It seems to be from the Zhongguo Duke's residence."

Zhongguo Duke's residence—the Feng family... Qin Guan frowned, a wave of disgust rising in her heart. Feng Zhang was the heir apparent of the Zhongguo Duke's residence. From their first meeting, she had known him to be arrogant and domineering; their second encounter had resulted in someone's death, and now this...

Her gaze turned cold. The frightened horse was quickly soothed by the experienced coachman, and the carriage began moving again, rendering the minor disturbance insignificant. They continued forward at a leisurely pace for another half-hour until the carriage arrived at Zhenghua Gate.

This wasn't Qin Guan's first time at Zhenghua Gate, but this time, her state of mind was entirely different.

Before the carriage had even come to a complete stop, a turbulent surge of darkness welled up within her.

That night—the night her father had planned to take their family away—they had left the Shen residence without incident. But just as they were about to reach the main city road, soldiers from the Nine Gates Garrison appeared out of nowhere. They advanced with murderous intent, forcing the family all the way to Zhenghua Gate. Right before the main gate of the Great Zhou Empire's imperial palace, her entire family had been slaughtered.

What crime could warrant such brutality—extermination without even imprisonment or trial?

Qin Guan couldn't comprehend it. She wasn't even certain if those soldiers were truly from the Nine Gates Garrison. All she remembered were the cold blades, the icy arrows, and the merciless eyes illuminated by the dazzling torchlight... The more she thought about it, the more her heart felt as if it were burning. Just as she reached the most agonizing part of her memories, a sharp, violent pain suddenly shot through her temples. Her face paled, and she immediately suppressed the thoughts. Taking several deep breaths, she lifted her gaze and saw only the Zhenghua Gate, even more majestic than the gates of Lin'an.

This was the main entrance to the imperial palace of the Great Zhou Empire. Beyond these gates lay the Yan imperial family, who had ruled the empire for 239 years. Staring at the imposing gate tower, the heavily armored imperial guards stationed above, and the fluttering "Yan" banners, Qin Guan's eyes turned icy cold. This palace gate had witnessed the brutal death of her family. Could it be that her father's case was connected to someone inside these palace walls? Prince Jin? The Crown Prince? Or perhaps... Prince Cheng?

"Ninth Sister! It's time to get off the carriage!"

Qin Yan's voice snapped Qin Guan out of her reverie. Her expression shifted back to life, and she realized the carriage had already stopped at the base of the gate. She quickly pulled up the hood of her cape, lifted the carriage curtain, and stepped out. Qin Yan stood by the carriage shaft to assist her, deliberately extending his arm to offer her support. Not far from them, Qin Shu and Hu Shi stood with Qin Chaoyu. Unlike Qin Guan, Qin Chaoyu hadn't worn her hood; she stood beside Hu Shi like a proud red plum blossom in the snow.

Qin Yan led Qin Guan over, and Qin Shu guided the group toward the palace gate.

"Marquis—" Before they had taken more than a few steps, a soft call came from behind them.

Qin Shu, Qin Yan, and the others turned around swiftly. Only Qin Guan remained still for a moment before slowly turning around herself. Lifting her gaze, she saw that it was none other than Li Muyun, the current Minister of the Court of Judicial Review.