Coroner's Diary

"Bribing an insider?! Concealing evidence?!"

Amidst the uproar, Yan Huai was the first to furrow his brow and question.

Yan Che nodded, "Exactly. The bribed yamen runner is still imprisoned in the prefectural jail. He has confessed everything. Prefect Zheng led a team to his quarters and found several pieces of evidence he had hidden. It was through this that the case was solved."

Yan Huai's eyes darkened. Yan Che wouldn't dare speak recklessly before all the officials, yet such an incident had occurred right under the Emperor's nose in the Lin'an Prefecture. The intentions of the mastermind behind this were glaringly obvious.

With a profound expression, Yan Huai said, "Rise first. Since the case is solved, you and Prefect Zheng have rendered meritorious service." He then turned to Yuan Qing, "Summon Zheng Baishi inside. Since the case is resolved, there's no urgency to report it. Tonight is the New Year's Eve banquet—let us feast first."

Yan Che rose and returned to his seat. Yan Huai gestured with a slight lift of his chin for him to sit, then added, "Bribing a yamen runner was clearly meant to obstruct the investigation. Now that the runner has been captured, interrogate him thoroughly. Find out who dares to be so audacious."

Yan Che clasped his hands and bowed, "Yes, I will not fail Your Majesty's expectations."

As they spoke, a figure appeared at the palace entrance—it was Zheng Baishi. Dressed in his wine-colored official uniform, he looked visibly exhausted, clearly having had little rest over the past couple of days. Upon the Emperor's command, Zheng Baishi entered swiftly, holding a scroll of documents, and proceeded directly to kneel before the throne.

"Your humble servant pays respects to the Emperor, the Empress, and the Crown Prince."

A slight smile touched Yan Huai's lips, "Rise quickly, Minister Zheng. Tonight is New Year's Eve—you have worked hard."

Zheng Baishi stood up, "I dare not claim hardship. This case has been delayed for so long that without a resolution, Your Majesty would be unsettled, and the Crown Prince and I would feel remorseful. Now that it is solved before the new year, we can finally provide closure to the victims' families." He raised the scroll overhead, "Your Majesty, all investigative details and witness testimonies are recorded here."

Yan Huai nodded, signaling Yuan Qing to retrieve it. As Yuan Qing descended the steps to take the scroll, Yan Huai said, "We will discuss the specifics later. Tonight is the New Year's Eve banquet. Since you have resolved the case, set your mind at ease and enjoy the feast. The new year must still be celebrated."

He then glanced at Yuan Qing, "Bestow wine—"

Yuan Qing immediately complied, personally descending the steps to escort Zheng Baishi to his seat, then ordering a special pot of wine to be brought for him. Zheng Baishi took his seat, first raising his cup in a toast to the Emperor before engaging in pleasantries with those around him.

From the main seat, Feng Lingsu remarked, "Congratulations to Your Majesty and the Crown Prince. With this case resolved, the people need not live in fear and can enjoy a peaceful new year—"

The scroll submitted by Zheng Baishi lay beside Yan Huai. Hearing Feng Lingsu's words, a satisfied smile spread across his face, "Speaking of which, these past few months at year's end have brought several good news regarding criminal cases."

At this, Zhao Shuhua inquired, "Is Your Majesty referring to that Gold Heist Case from years past?"

Yan Huai nodded, "Precisely. That case remained unsolved for over a decade, yet it was resolved this year."

Yan Qi, having regained his composure, added, "I heard it was Yan Chi and the Yuzhou Prefect who cracked it?"The moment the name "Yan Chi" was spoken, Qin Guan's eyes instantly brightened slightly. Then she heard Yan Huai continue with a laugh, "Indeed. Previously we only knew he excelled in warfare, but this time we discovered he's equally adept in judicial matters. First he solved a case in Jinzhou, then encountered two more cases in Yuanzhou and Yuzhou. The Huangjian Robbery Case was one of them."

Feng Lingsu smiled upon hearing this, "Heir Apparent Yan Chi is so capable. Your Majesty has found another capable assistant."

Her words greatly pleased Yan Huai, who responded, "I'd like to keep him at court to help, but he's been following his father on battlefields since childhood. I'm concerned he might not adapt."

Feng Lingsu chuckled, "Why wouldn't he adapt? Speaking of which, Prince Rui has raised Heir Apparent Yan Chi exceptionally well. To think he could go to battle at such a young age and remain there for so many years. However, as a mother myself, I can't help but feel heartache for him when I see him. Though he's of royal blood, only he grew up in the remote western frontiers - it couldn't have been easy. If his mother were still alive... ah..."

After Feng Lingsu finished speaking, Yan Huai's brows knitted tightly together.

Zhao Shuhua then remarked, "For a man to defend his country and fight on battlefields is the ambition of a true gentleman. Yan Chi following in his father's footsteps is nothing unusual." She added, "But now that the northwest situation has stabilized, Prince Rui alone should suffice. If Yan Chi can assist Your Majesty in judicial matters, it would be excellent for him to remain in the capital."

As Zhao Shuhua's words faded, Yan Zhen blinked at Yan Huai, "Father, why isn't Brother Chi here?"

Yan Huai smiled at her question, "He entered the palace this afternoon. After meeting with me, he went to the Longevity and Health Palace to see your grandmother. She hasn't seen him for years - sometimes mistaking him for his father, other times for Yan Li - and simply wouldn't let him leave."

Yan Zhen beamed, "Then after the banquet, I'll go see grandmother too!"

Yan Huai looked at Yan Zhen with deep affection, "Excellent. Keeping your grandmother company for the New Year's Eve would be wonderful."

Yan Zhen nodded in agreement. After a moment of contemplation, Yan Huai suddenly seemed to remember something, "Speaking of which, I've thought of another person."

Zhao Shuhua looked at Yan Huai, "Who has Your Majesty thought of?"

As the Emperor and Empress conversed, the court ladies and ministers below quieted down, listening attentively while dining. First hearing about Yan Chi, they exchanged whispers. Then, upon hearing Yan Huai's latest remark, curious looks appeared in everyone's eyes.

Feng Lingsu's eyes shifted thoughtfully, "Could Your Majesty be thinking of Prince Yi?"

Among the surviving princes of Emperor Yan Huai's generation in the Great Zhou Empire, besides Prince Yu of Yuzhou and Prince Rui of the northwestern army, there was also Prince Yi. However, Prince Yi had Buddhist inclinations, often traveling abroad seeking enlightenment, and had long ceased residing in the capital.

Feng Lingsu was Yan Huai's confidante, and indeed she understood him well. Considering he had just mentioned Yan Chi and Prince Rui, it seemed natural he would next think of Prince Yi. She smiled confidently, but to her surprise, Yan Huai shook his head at her, "Su'er, this time you've guessed wrong."

With that, Yan Huai's gaze turned toward the ladies' section, "Has Ninth Miss of Qin Manor arrived?"

The sudden question caught even Qin Guan herself off guard, until Qin Chaoyu nudged her elbow.

Qin Guan regained her composure and instinctively stood up.At this moment, those who didn’t know who the Ninth Miss of Qin Manor was turned their gazes toward Qin Guan.

Qin Guan frowned slightly, unsure of the Emperor’s intentions. Her thoughts had been preoccupied with whether Yan Chi had arrived, and it was only upon hearing the Fifth Princess’s words that she learned of Yan Chi’s whereabouts. Thus, her mind had drifted, but she never expected Yan Huai to suddenly address her!

“Ninth Miss, the Emperor is calling you…”

Seeing Qin Guan’s apparent confusion, Yuan Qing, standing beside Yan Huai, smiled and reminded her.

Qin Guan quickly composed herself and took a few steps toward the main seat. As she moved, people on both sides of the screen caught sight of her, and immediately, hushed whispers arose. Some did not recognize her, while others vaguely knew of her background. Regardless of whether they knew her or not, being personally addressed by the Emperor at such a grand banquet was anything but ordinary. In an instant, everyone in the hall—from the Empress and the imperial consorts to the assembled ministers, their families, and attendants—scrutinized Qin Guan with increasing intensity. As they did, astonishment flickered in their eyes.

When had such an otherworldly beauty appeared in the capital?

The nobility of the capital had endless ways to socialize and amuse themselves—tea parties, poetry gatherings, garden excursions—and as a result, everyone knew which young lady excelled at poetry, which was renowned for her beauty, and which was fond of gossip…

Within these circles, no one remained unknown. Everyone had only known of the Qin family’s Qin Chaoyu, yet they never imagined that this Ninth Miss of Qin Manor would far surpass Qin Chaoyu in grace and appearance…

Countless gazes, each with its own nuance, fell upon Qin Guan. From her table to the steps before the main seat—a distance of over ten paces—she walked with steady, dignified steps. Unfazed by the scrutiny of so many, she showed no timidity even in the face of imperial majesty.

Her white cape remained draped over her shoulders, shimmering under the brilliant light of the main seat, as if she were bathed in moonlight. Her dark hair was half tied up, adorned with three simple jade hairpins. Though standing before the most exalted figures in the realm, she held herself upright, neither subservient nor arrogant. Observing her features more closely, the crowd was startled to find her exquisitely beautiful. Yet it was not merely her beauty that captivated—this girl, who appeared no older than sixteen or seventeen, possessed an aura of refinement, as if carved from jade and polished by ice, pure and luminous.

As she drew closer to the main seat, her steps remained steady and devoid of nervousness. To onlookers, her demeanor was as serene as an orchid, as steadfast as pine and bamboo, as though she would remain unshaken even if Mount Tai crumbled before her. With her hands clasped gently in front of her, she exuded an air of harmony and noble composure. Though her white cape concealed the splendor of her inner attire, it could not hide the innate tranquility and grace that radiated from her very being. Amid the hall’s dazzling brilliance, Qin Guan moved as if her sleeves fluttered with celestial grace, her presence reminiscent of snow dancing in a swirling breeze. In mere moments, Yan Qi stared in astonishment, Feng Lingsu and Zhao Shuhua narrowed their eyes, Yan Huai himself revealed surprise, and Yan Che gazed at Qin Guan with an intensely complicated expression.

“This commoner, Qin Guan, pays respects to the Emperor and the Empress.” Qin Guan knelt in salute, her voice clear and melodious, like the chime of jade.

Yan Huai observed her for a moment before his smile deepened. “When Yuan Qing returned to the palace at noon, he told me that the Ninth Miss of Qin Manor was no ordinary beauty. I had my doubts, but now that I see you, I know his words were true.”

He then said cheerfully, “Rise, rise. The Grand Princess asked me to treat you well—I dare not keep you kneeling for long.”

Qin Guan promptly replied, “Thank you, Your Majesty,” and stood up.Qin Guan stood upright, her brows and eyes slightly lowered, her expression respectful.

From the main seat, Zhao Shuhua exclaimed in surprise, "Is she the adopted granddaughter Grand Princess took in Jinzhou?"

Yan Huai chuckled, "The Empress is a bit slow to react—it is indeed her."

Zhao Shuhua also smiled, "No wonder. An ordinary person would never catch Grand Princess's eye."

Yan Huai continued, "She's not as simple as she appears on the surface. Though her looks are exceptional, she also possesses extraordinary medical skills. It was she who cured Grand Princess's long-standing ailment. I believe she's called... the Little Medicine Immortal of Jinzhou..."

Zhao Shuhua's eyes brightened further at this, and as Yan Huai spoke, the gazes in the hall grew even more intense.

Feng Lingsu expressed mild astonishment, "Medical skills? This Ninth... Ninth Miss looks quite young. How could she have such skills? And extraordinary ones at that? As far as I know, the youngest imperial physician in the Imperial Hospital is at least thirty, isn't he?"

The Path of medicine undeniably requires significant time to master. Given Qin Guan's youth, her training must have been brief—how could she compare to seasoned physicians? How could she be the one to cure Grand Princess?

"Su'er, that's a narrow view," Yan Huai interjected. "Grand Princess's letter mentioned this girl's exceptional talent. Not only did she save her life with her medical skills, but she also assisted in other matters. This girl—even I dare not underestimate her."

Yan Huai's repeated use of "Su'er" emphasized his closeness to Feng Lingsu, and his words carried a deeper implication, leaving even Qin Guan uncertain what "other matters" referred to—could it be the case?

Feng Lingsu covered her lips with a light laugh, "The Emperor is right. I have limited insight and likely underestimated Ninth Miss."

Since Yan Huai had stated he dared not underestimate Qin Guan, who would dare openly question her? Yet, while her appearance was beyond reproach, her medical skills remained unverified. Without witnessing them firsthand, doubts lingered among the crowd. Moreover, Grand Princess, advanced in years, might have exaggerated the girl's prowess out of affection.

Yan Huai turned his gaze to Qin Guan, "Girl, how was Grand Princess's health when you left?"

Qin Guan promptly replied, "Grandmother is already well. I left her a six-month tonic prescription. With proper care, her health must have improved significantly by now."

Her use of "Grandmother" seemed to finally cement the reality of Grand Princess adopting her as a granddaughter. Though some believed Grand Princess's influence had waned after years away from the capital, most nobles recalled her formidable nature in her prime and knew the current Emperor held deep regard for his aunt. Thus, none dared show disrespect.

Yan Huai nodded, "Good. Curing Grand Princess is a great merit. Tonight is New Year's Eve—tell me, what would you like? Whatever I can grant, I will not withhold."

Hearing this, Qin Guan's heart stirred. Whatever she wanted, he would not withhold?!

What she desired had always been one thing alone...

Pressing her lips slightly, she lowered her gaze further, "Saving Grandmother was merely a trivial act initially. Gaining this bond with her and treating her ailment was both my duty and my fortune. I seek nothing."

Yan Huai's smile deepened, "Truly, you seek nothing?"

Without hesitation, Qin Guan nodded, "Truly, I seek nothing."Yan Huai laughed heartily, "Look at this, I rarely take the initiative to bestow rewards, yet this young lady declines."

Feng LingSu quickly added, "Ninth Miss is showing filial devotion to the Grand Princess."

Yan Huai nodded, "Auntie already enjoys the blessing of having children and grandchildren around her. Now that she has gained an adopted granddaughter, just reading her letter shows how delighted she is." He paused briefly, "Young lady, since my words have been spoken, it would be improper to retract them. If you haven't thought of anything now, we can set it aside for the moment. Whenever you think of something, you may come to me, and I will fulfill it at any time."

Qin Guan was somewhat surprised, casting a quick glance at Yan Huai. While minor imperial rewards were not uncommon, Yan Huai's approach this time was exceedingly rare. If he merely intended to go through the motions, he could have casually selected a few trinkets as gifts, without needing to make a promise in front of all the officials and so many people—a promise that could be fulfilled at any time. What if she asked for something else?

Yan Huai gazed at her with gentle eyes, likely perceiving Qin Guan's surprise and hesitation. In his view, her hesitation simply reflected her bewilderment at the sudden imperial favor.

Yan Huai sighed inwardly. Knowing Qin Guan's background and bearing in mind the Grand Princess's entreaties, he felt a pang of compassion for her. Though Qin Guan appeared composed and extraordinary in demeanor, she had not been raised in the manner of typical noble daughters. Faced with his generosity, her mind seemed momentarily inflexible, unsure how to respond.

"Now that you've returned to the capital, you may visit the palace from time to time for leisure. Little Fifth is around your age, and I believe you two would get along well. When you write to Jinzhou, be sure to tell Auntie that I have not treated you poorly."

Yan Huai spoke half-jokingly, his tone resembling that of a kindly elder.

Qin Guan promptly replied, "Yes, this commoner will strictly adhere to Your Majesty's command."

Seeing that Qin Guan's words were cautious, unlike the deliberately ingratiating manner of other noble daughters, Yan Huai found himself growing even fonder of her. Meanwhile, Yan Zhen looked at Qin Guan with curiosity, "Do you really know medicine? Are you truly that skilled?"

Qin Guan turned slightly to face Yan Zhen, "Your Highness, this commoner's medical skills are not exceptional; they are only sufficient to treat ordinary ailments."

Yan Zhen's apricot-shaped eyes regarded Qin Guan with both curiosity and affection. After a moment, she smiled and said, "I don't know how skilled you are in medicine, but I do know you are truly beautiful. With such beauty, why bother studying medicine?"

Yan Zhen was only thirteen or fourteen years old and, having been coddled since childhood, possessed an especially lively disposition. Her innocent remark even brought a smile to Qin Guan's lips, and Yan Huai chuckled, "You little imp, what kind of logic is that? Is this another excuse you've concocted to avoid studying?"

Yan Zhen reacted swiftly, "Oh, is Father implying that I am beautiful?"

Yan Huai looked at her dotingly, "You are the apple of my eye, of course you are the most beautiful."

Yan Zhen beamed with joy, while Yan Huai shook his head in amusement. Turning back to Qin Guan, he said, "Very well, today is the New Year's banquet. Another day, I shall summon you to the palace to tell me about Auntie and the others in Jinzhou. You may withdraw and enjoy the feast."

Qin Guan felt a wave of relief, curtsied, and turned to take her leave.Qin Guan stepped away from the base of the main dais. Though she had blocked the view of the court officials, she couldn't conceal herself from the gaze of those seated at the main table. After returning to her seat, Yan Che and Yan Qi's eyes remained fixed on her.

Earlier, when Qin Guan stood nearby, it would have been inappropriate for the princes to appear overly attentive. Now that she had returned to her seat, their gazes still lingered—not only theirs but also those of the other two princes nearby.

Yan Huai naturally noticed his sons' behavior but pretended not to, raising his cup instead to toast with the court officials.

Meanwhile, Feng Chenbi scrutinized Qin Guan for a moment. "Ninth Miss actually knows medicine? So you're the one Grand Princess took in as her adopted daughter in Jinzhou..."

Tilting her head thoughtfully, she added, "Where did Ninth Miss study medicine?"

Qin Guan replied calmly, "I learned from my father."

Feng Chenbi blinked. "From Second Master Qin? But didn't he already—"

She cut herself off, realizing she had spoken out of turn. Hu Shi and Qin Chaoyu's expressions darkened. Qin Guan frowned slightly and cast a cold glance at Feng Chenbi. Just then, Madame Gu, wife of the Duke of Wei, interjected, "Why is Miss Feng so curious about such matters? Could there be any doubt about someone Grand Princess took in as her adopted granddaughter?"

She smiled warmly at Qin Guan, appearing quite fond of her.

Noticing this, Yu Shi asked, "Did Madame Peng know about this long ago?"

A faint smile touched Madame Gu's lips as she replied candidly, "My husband fought alongside Anyang Marquis in their younger years. When this news reached the capital, we took notice. Indeed, we've known for some time. We wondered when we might meet this Ninth Miss, never expecting it would be so soon."

Peng Huajing inquired, "Ninth Miss possesses remarkable medical skill at such a young age. What would you say is your specialty?"

Most physicians had specific areas of expertise, but Qin Guan found herself unable to name one. Her actual experience treating patients was limited—she simply studied whatever cases she encountered with great diligence. The title "Miracle doctor" was something she truly felt unworthy of.

"I'm not certain what my specialty is. I can treat common illnesses I've encountered, that's all."

Feng Chenbi pressed, "Since you're called Little Medicine Immortal, you must have something you're best at."

Qin Guan looked at Feng Chenbi. "If I must name one, it would be acupuncture."

Her tone cooled as she assessed Feng Chenbi. "For conditions like yours—insufficient qi and blood with internal cold—just one acupuncture session every half month would bring improvement."

Feng Chenbi met Qin Guan's clear gaze. Normally it seemed unremarkable, but as Qin Guan spoke, Feng Chenbi felt as if icy needles were forming in her eyes. When she finished speaking, Feng Chenbi almost felt the needles physically piercing her. Moreover, Qin Guan had accurately identified her ailment with a single glance, which vexed her greatly—it seemed Qin Guan did have some skill!

"I see. It appears I underestimated Ninth Miss!"

Hearing this, Qin Guan increasingly felt that the entire Zhongguo Duke's household shared similar traits, with Feng Chenbi particularly resembling a younger version of Feng Lingsu.

Yu Shi noticed Qin Guan's irritation with Feng Chenbi and discreetly took her daughter's hand under the table. Changing the subject, she asked, "Earlier, Ninth Miss mentioned that the first time you treated Grand Princess was by chance?"

Compared to Feng Chenbi, Yu Shi was far more subtle. Qin Guan nodded. "That's right."

Yu Shi smiled. "Oh? What were the circumstances?"Qin Guan had initially been reluctant to elaborate, but since Yu Shi asked so directly, she replied, "When I went out, I encountered Grand Princess falling ill by the roadside, so I stepped in to help her. At the time, I didn’t know her identity."

Yu Shi feigned a bit of surprise, "Tsk, what a remarkable coincidence..."

Qin Chaoyu and Hu Shi were also unaware of the reason behind this. Upon hearing it now, they too found it quite coincidental. Meanwhile, Feng Chenbi whispered softly into Yu Shi's ear, "Who knows what tricks were played? How could such a coincidence happen?"

Yu Shi maintained a smile on her face but whispered back to Feng Chenbi, "Keep your composure."

Feng Chenbi frowned, wanting to say more, but Yu Shi tugged at her sleeve. Noticing the many people seated at the table, Feng Chenbi swallowed her words. In her view, the Grand Princess had been away from the capital for ten years, and young ladies like themselves, aged fifteen or sixteen, had little impression of her. Naturally, they did not regard her with the reverence due to a genuine imperial princess. If even the Grand Princess's status meant little to her, what significance did Qin Guan, an adopted granddaughter, hold?

With Feng Chenbi falling silent, Qin Guan was spared the need to engage with her. Just as she was about to calm her mind, Qin Chaoyu asked, "When His Majesty earlier asked what you wanted, why didn’t you speak up?"

Qin Guan could only sigh in response. It wasn’t that she lacked desires, but what she wanted was something she could not voice.

"I simply couldn’t think of anything at the moment."

Qin Chaoyu then glanced toward the head of the table. Sure enough, Yan Che seemed to be looking in their direction again.

Qin Chaoyu clenched her sleeve tightly. Yan Che should have noticed her presence as soon as he arrived, given their table’s prominent placement. Yet initially, he had not spared them a second glance. It was only after Qin Guan returned from approaching the Emperor that he began frequently looking their way. The contrast made it evident where his gaze was intended to rest.

Pressing her lips together, Qin Chaoyu exerted great effort to conceal her feelings in front of Feng Chenbi.

Meanwhile, Yan Che’s gaze was indeed fixed on Qin Guan. He was deeply astonished—astonished that among the noble clans, there existed a woman like Qin Guan. She appeared pure, elegant, and dignified, a strikingly outstanding noble lady at first glance. Yet upon closer observation, her eyes held a clarity untainted by worldly desires. When asked about a reward, she requested nothing, not even uttering a single flattering word. This "artlessness" stood out as particularly rare among the crowd of ladies vying for attention.

The more Yan Che pondered, the more regret he felt. Yuan Qing had been right—she possessed an extraordinary, unearthly beauty.

How had he been unaware that this Ninth Miss was of such caliber? What had Zhao Jing said during his last visit to the palace?

He seemed to have mentioned only that the Ninth Miss of the Qin Manor was skilled in medicine…

Had he been more explicit at the time, Yan Che would have wished to meet this Ninth Miss sooner.

Yan Che’s eyes drifted back to the Qin family’s table. Blocked by Qin Chaoyu, he caught only a glimpse of Qin Guan’s profile. Squinting slightly, Yan Che’s mind unexpectedly conjured another image.

Seated in the position above Yan Qi, Yan Che’s repeated glances toward the Qin table did not escape Yan Qi’s notice. Detecting Yan Che’s frequent attention, a thoughtful gleam appeared in Yan Qi’s eyes. All men in the world appreciate beautiful faces, but what made the Ninth Miss of the Qin Manor even more remarkable was that her allure extended beyond mere appearance. The Crown Prince had initially shown interest in Qin Chaoyu—but would he now shift his focus? If so… A faint smile touched Yan Qi’s lips. Should he make this drama even more captivating?The Crown Prince and Prince Cheng each harbored their own thoughts, while Zhao Shuhua and Feng Lingsu had their own plans. Seeing Zhao Shuhua summon the palace maid behind her and whisper some instructions, Feng Lingsu also turned to call her trusted aide and quietly gave two commands. Almost simultaneously, the palace maids of Zhao Shuhua and Feng Lingsu left the place together. Feng Lingsu turned around and happened to meet Zhao Shuhua's smiling eyes.

Feng Lingsu hurriedly said, "I apologize for making Sister laugh. Although the hall is lively, I feel a bit cold, so I sent Bao Die to fetch my cape." As she spoke, Feng Lingsu curiously added, "Has Sister also sent Yun Yan to fetch a cape?"

Zhao Shuhua curved her lips and replied, "Certainly not. I noticed His Majesty is quite fond of this Ninth Miss from Qin Manor, and since she didn't ask for any rewards earlier, I ordered someone to fetch a few pieces of jewelry from my collection to express my goodwill."

Upon hearing this, Feng Lingsu's smile immediately froze. Nearby, Yan Huai, upon hearing these words, raised his lips and said, "The Empress is indeed considerate."

Zhao Shuhua then said, "Although I haven't seen the Grand Princess's handwritten letter, just from His Majesty's words, I know the Grand Princess deeply cares for this granddaughter. It is only natural that I should fulfill my duty of looking after her."

Yan Huai listened and nodded again. "You truly live up to being my Empress. I know you've always been fond of Qin Shu's daughter, and now there's another one. From now on, take good care of them."

Zhao Shuhua naturally agreed, while Feng Lingsu forced a dry laugh for a moment before her eyes turned cold.

Just then, a low shout from a eunuch suddenly came from outside the hall: "Prince Rui's Heir has arrived—"

As soon as the words fell, the hall immediately fell silent. Yan Huai laughed heartily, "Excellent! He's finally been released by the Empress Dowager!"

No sooner had he spoken than a figure clad in profound black entered the hall doors.

Chongming Hall was brightly lit, filled with warmth and the aroma of wine, yet those seated inside could clearly hear the howling wind and snow outside. Yan Chi strode into the hall, his ink-black cape still dusted with snow. Carrying a chill from the outside, he walked briskly toward the main dais. Upon reaching the imperial presence, he swept his robe and knelt, performing a military salute on one knee. His movements were swift and his posture effortless. From Qin Guan's position, she could see everything clearly. For a moment, the hall's wine-induced warmth brought a faint flush to her cheeks.

"This general pays respects to Your Majesty and Her Majesty the Empress. I apologize for my tardiness, please forgive me, Your Majesty!"

Both Yan Huai and Zhao Shuhua deepened their smiles simultaneously. Yan Huai said, "Rise quickly, rise quickly! How is the Empress Dowager?"

Yan Chi's phoenix eyes shone brightly, his gaze dazzling under the brilliant lights. Upon hearing the question, he raised his lips. "When this general left, Her Majesty the Empress Dowager was preparing to rest. By now, she must already be asleep."

Yan Chi's voice was melodious and pleasing to the ear. Coupled with his tall stature, he wore a magnificent black robe embroidered with golden coiling dragons, draped over with a black fox-fur cape. Standing before the imperial dais, he exuded an unparalleled handsomeness and an imposing presence. In an instant, not only were Yan Che and Yan Qi overshadowed, but even Yan Huai in his Ceremonial Robe seemed to pale in comparison.

Whether it was Yan Huai or Yan Che, their appearances ranked first and second, respectively, largely due to the inherent superiority of long-standing authority. Enhanced by the dragon-embroidered robes symbolizing power, they naturally attracted the majority of attention.Yet Yan Chi differed from everyone else in this hall. He possessed noble lineage and incomparably handsome features, but these qualities others viewed as unattainable were not his only assets. Compared to these, his battle-hardened physique tempered in the fires of war and his heroic courage that could command armies through mountains of blades and seas of flames were what truly made him peerless in this chamber!

The sharp edge he carried was stained with the scent of blood, forged through the harsh trials of wind, frost, and bloodshed on the Cold Plains of the western frontier. It had slain countless enemy troops and cowed the Western Rong into not daring to cross the border. Here, amidst these gilded luxuries and pleasures steeped in years of wine and sensual indulgence, his body tempered by carnage and slaughter made everything appear fragile and insignificant. No one could compare to him, nor did anyone dare to.

Qin Guan watched intently, her gaze shifting to see Feng Chenbi and Peng Huajing nearby also watching with rapt attention. At first, she felt a shared pride and lifted her lips in a slight smile, but then, as if struck by a thought, her eyes dimmed and an inexplicable bitterness welled up in her heart.

"Excellent, excellent. Her elderly self has been unwell lately, but seeing you today has lifted her spirits. She should be able to sleep sooner. Since you arrived late, you must punish yourself with three cups. I know your father forbids drinking in the army, but now that you're back in the capital, you can indulge a little." With a wave of his hand, the Emperor commanded, "Bring a seat and wine—"

Yuan Qing swiftly issued the orders, and soon several young eunuchs placed a new mat beside the Eighth Prince's seat. Everyone understood: though Yan Chi was of royal blood, he was not a prince. Clearly, Yan Huai intended to grant him supreme honor. Once the seating was arranged, Yan Huai tilted his chin slightly. "Take your seat."

Yin Chi offered no refusal, merely cupped his hands in acknowledgment and seated himself in the place of honor.

As he settled into his seat, his gaze cut through the dazzling brilliance of the hall and landed unerringly on Qin Guan.

Qin Guan's heart warmed, and she even saw Yan Chi curve his lips slightly in her direction before he looked away.

Though it lasted only a moment, her heart felt as though bathed in fine wine, rich and fragrant.

Yan Chi raised his cup and first toasted those at the main table. As soon as he set his cup down, Zhao Shuhua remarked, "We were just speaking of you, saying how you accomplished great deeds on your southern campaign."

Yan Chi gave an "oh" and smiled. "I dare not claim great deeds, merely doing my part to share the Emperor's burdens."

Yan Huai looked on with admiration. "See, these are the very words everyone spoke earlier."

Zhao Shuhua curved her lips. "Since you've achieved such merit, have you asked the Emperor for a reward?"

At this, Yan Huai's smile deepened, naturally recalling how Qin Guan had declined a reward earlier. Then Yan Chi replied, "It was my duty. How could I dare ask the Emperor for a reward?"

Yan Huai laughed heartily. "What is happening today? Why is it that my rewards cannot be given away?"

Yan Chi looked puzzled, as if unaware of what Yan Huai meant. Zhao Shuhua explained, "You don't know, but earlier when the Ninth Miss of Qin Manor came forward, the Emperor asked if she wanted a reward, and she also said it was her duty and dared not accept one."

Yan Chi's expression remained unchanged. "Oh? It seems the Ninth Miss and I walk the same Path."

Yan Chi's words came a bit quickly, making Qin Guan's heart leap. He had actually mentioned her in front of so many people...

As this thought crossed her mind, she heard Yan Huai ask, "Speaking of which, you two should be acquainted, shouldn't you?"Yan Chi's lips curved into a smile. "Of course we are acquainted. The Grand Princess was concerned and specifically instructed me to take good care of her."

Yan Huai glanced briefly in Qin Guan's direction. "It seems the Grand Princess is indeed deeply concerned—first giving instructions to you, then sending me a handwritten letter. Very well, as long as you remain in the capital from now on, everything can be easily arranged."

Yan Chi's laughter was open and hearty. "Naturally." He seemed to pay no heed to Yan Huai's remark about "remaining in the capital."

Since Yan Chi had arrived late, Yan Huai inevitably made him drink a penalty round. Yan Chi drank without hesitation and even raised consecutive toasts to his elder cousins at the head table before finally stopping. Seeing Yan Chi showed no restraint with alcohol, Yan Huai's smile deepened slightly as he inquired about amusing anecdotes from the Northwest Frontier Army. Yan Chi responded with ease, and the atmosphere at the main table grew even more congenial. Yan Qi, who had met Yan Chi earlier, naturally had much to discuss with him, though Yan Chi made no mention of Yan Qi taking people to the Mortuary Temple. Yan Qi noticed this, and their back-and-forth remained harmonious and joyful. In contrast, Yan Che appeared somewhat distracted.

After three rounds of drinks, the New Year's banquet could be considered a success. Besides the grand feast, Yan Huai was also to lead the officials up the Zhenghua Gate tower to celebrate with the capital's citizens. Just as Yan Huai was about to instruct Yuan Qing to prepare for the conclusion of the banquet and the imperial procession, a young eunuch suddenly rushed in anxiously through the right side door. In his haste, the eunuch cried out upon seeing Yan Huai, "Your Majesty! The Empress Dowager has taken a turn for the worse!"