Exiting the palace gates, the Qin Manor carriage still waited at the entrance. Seeing Qin Guan emerge, Cheng Hu hurried forward to greet her. "Ninth Miss, the heir apparent has returned to the manor first and instructed me to wait here for you—"
As he spoke, he glanced at Yan Chi and Yan Li. While Cheng Hu recognized Yan Li, he hesitated slightly when looking at Yan Chi.
"This is Prince Rui's heir and Prince Gong's heir," Qin Guan explained briefly.
Cheng Hu promptly bowed in salute. Yan Chi had originally intended to escort Qin Guan back to the manor but hadn’t expected Qin Yan to leave someone behind.
Qin Guan then turned to Yan Chi and Yan Li. "Isn’t Your Highness Yan Li planning to take His Highness somewhere? In that case, I shall return to the manor first."
Yan Chi’s expression turned serious. "Where to? Later, we’ll pay New Year’s respects to the princess consort, and naturally, there are other matters to attend to."
A faint, almost teasing smile flickered in Qin Guan’s eyes. Meanwhile, Yan Li grinned playfully at her. "Seventh Brother is rather dull, isn’t he? Ninth Miss, when will you be able to come and go from the manor freely?"
With the recent case of the female victims in Lin’an City now resolved, it seemed Qin Guan would no longer be restricted. She replied, "I should be able to in a few days."
Yan Li winked at her. "When the time comes, I’ll take Ninth Miss to a fun place as well."
The corners of Qin Guan’s lips curved slightly. "Thank you, Your Highness. For now, I shall take my leave."
She performed a slight curtsey. Yan Chi nodded, watching as Qin Guan and Fuling boarded the carriage driven by Cheng Hu.
Once Qin Guan was in the carriage, Yan Chi shot a brief, warning glance at Yan Li. Yan Li’s eyes darted mischievously before he suddenly laughed. "Seventh Brother, are you nervous? Don’t you want Ninth Miss to know I’m taking you out for some fun?"
Yan Chi narrowed his eyes. Yan Li pressed on, "Seventh Brother, what are your intentions, really? You’ve been back in the capital for days without making any moves. Is it that Ninth Miss is unwilling, or do you have reservations?"
Yan Chi shook his head and turned toward his horse. Both had arrived on horseback. Seeing this, Yan Li also mounted his steed. As it was the first day of the year, the Imperial Road outside the royal city was devoid of officials coming and going. The snow had not yet melted, leaving a vast expanse of pure white. Their horses moved at a leisurely pace. Yan Li said breezily, "Seventh Brother, if nothing’s settled between you and Ninth Miss, why not live as you please? All the young nobles in the capital spend their days lingering in pleasure houses."
Yan Chi frowned slightly and suddenly asked, "A Li, do you plan to live like this forever?"
The carefree smile on Yan Li’s face faltered. He casually flicked his whip through the air a few times. "What’s wrong with this? Many envy my freedom—no need to scheme for power or worry about wealth. Wielding authority upon waking isn’t for me; lying drunk in the lap of beauty suits me better…"
Stretching lazily in his saddle, Yan Li continued, "Seventh Brother, I’m truly content this way. There are too few carefree people in this world, and I’m fortunate enough to be one. Besides, Mother has no expectations of me, right?"
He then grinned at Yan Chi. "Seventh Brother, you’re different. Uncle Prince Rui would never let you drown yourself in pleasure like this."
A shadow crossed Yan Chi’s eyes. "If you genuinely prefer this life, so be it."
With that, he urged his horse to go faster. Yan Li laughed and followed behind. "What does preference have to do with it? Seventh Brother, are you really not going to Xiaoxiang Pavilion? Or at least Phoenix Perch Tower…"
Yan Chi ignored him entirely, quickening his pace as he headed straight for Prince Gong’s royal residence.In the carriage, Fuling let out a long sigh. "Miss, this servant can finally speak."
Though Fuling had gained some experience entering the palace today, aside from paying respects to the nobles, she hadn't uttered a single word at other times—this had been sheer torture for her!
Qin Guan's lips curved slightly. "Well? Would you like to enter the palace again next time?"
Fuling instinctively shook her head, but looking at Qin Guan, she added, "This servant wouldn't want to go alone, but I'd be willing to accompany you." Her expression then turned bitter. "Fortunately, I'm not a palace maid. Otherwise, it would be truly unbearable. That senior maid in the Longevity and Health Palace didn't seem low-ranking, yet for half a day she didn't dare speak a word, keeping her eyes fixed downward—how stifling! Miss, please don't go to that palace in the future."
She sighed again. "Eighth Young Miss is so pitiful, having to endure such treatment later."
Qin Guan had been smiling faintly, but upon hearing this, she couldn't help but laugh aloud. Qin Chaoyu aspiring to become the Crown Princess was something countless women envied, yet Fuling called it "enduring punishment"!
Seeing Qin Guan's merry laughter, Fuling flushed crimson. "Miss, you're laughing at me! But this is truly how the palace is. And that incident we encountered today—though I didn't see it clearly, I heard Xiu'er's miserable screams. It shows how worthless a servant's life is in the palace..."
Qin Guan's smile faded. "Don't worry. We only entered the palace to treat the Empress Dowager's illness."
Fuling nodded. "That's exactly why I feel relieved. I truly don't understand those who wish to enter the palace. So many consorts think about the same man all day, while that man is preoccupied with state affairs—imagine how much affection he could give them? They enter the palace as fresh flowers, only to wither in the end."
The last traces of amusement vanished from Qin Guan's eyes, replaced by a pang of sorrow. Fuling's analogy was strikingly vivid. With nothing to do but wait, women in the palace had ample time and energy for scheming. To compete for that scarce affection, they had no choice but to engage in strife.
Shaking her head, Qin Guan dismissed these thoughts. After all, none of this concerned her.
Instead, the Ninth Prince's words today had planted a deep seed in her heart.
Consort Jin's case remained shrouded in mystery, and she was still at a loss about how to proceed.
Qin Guan grew quiet, and Fuling didn't dare speak further. She lifted the carriage curtain to watch the scenery outside. On the first day of the new year, Lin'an City was filled with festive atmosphere. The occasional sounds of paper firecrackers and fireworks could be heard. Fuling took deep breaths of the crisp, cold air, feeling completely freed from the cautious oppression of the palace. Her gaze shifted, and she spotted a familiar figure.
"Ah, Miss, look! That person seems to have visited our residence before?"
Qin Guan snapped out of her thoughts and followed Fuling's pointing finger. There, she saw Zhan Yang standing by the street, accompanied by four constables. Before him stood a plainly dressed middle-aged man who was anxiously explaining something in response to Zhan Yang's questions. Frowning slightly, Qin Guan said softly, "Stop for a moment."
Outside, Cheng Hu had also noticed Zhan Yang. Having served Qin Yan, he had encountered Zhan Yang many times before.The carriage came to a halt, and Qin Guan observed Zhan Yang and the middle-aged man before him with a thoughtful gaze.
After watching for a moment, it seemed Zhan Yang had finished questioning but hadn’t uncovered what he knew. Frowning, he turned around and, in doing so, caught sight of Cheng Hu and Qin Guan. A flicker of surprise crossed Zhan Yang’s face before he approached Qin Guan’s carriage.
“Ninth Miss, what brings you here?” Zhan Yang cupped his hands in greeting and asked.
Having just met that morning, Qin Guan smiled lightly. “I’ve just come from the palace.” She glanced toward the middle-aged man not far away. “It’s the first day of the new year—why is Zhan Butou here?”
Zhan Yang didn’t return the smile, though his tone softened slightly. “I’m alone, so the New Year holds little meaning for me. Besides, Lin’an City often sees disturbances during this time, so I’ve been stationed at the yamen.” He turned to look back. “This morning, a report came in about a theft at a tavern. That man is a waiter from the tavern, off duty today. We found him and are questioning him.”
“Have you learned anything?” Qin Guan inquired.
Having been helped by Qin Guan before, Zhan Yang knew she was sharp-witted and perceptive, so he answered directly, “No, he’s just a waiter and knows nothing about the theft.”
Qin Guan narrowed her eyes, studying the middle-aged man again, then suddenly said, “I suspect he’s not entirely ignorant.”
Zhan Yang raised an eyebrow and turned to look at the man as well. “Why do you say that, Ninth Miss?”
Qin Guan fixed her gaze on the man. “Just now, while you were questioning him, he appeared extremely nervous.”
Zhan Yang frowned. “Most people get a bit nervous when questioned by yamen officers.”
Qin Guan shook her head. “When ordinary people are nervous during questioning, they usually lower their eyes and act respectfully. But just now, his eyes kept darting to the upper left, his arms were pressed tightly against his body, and he was hunched over. Though his hands hung at his sides, his fingers were clenched into fists, constantly fidgeting, and he kept tugging at the hem of his clothes unconsciously. He seemed to shrink into himself, and his legs shifted back half a step, as if trying to put more distance between himself and you.”
After Qin Guan finished, Zhan Yang looked at her. “I noticed those things too…”
Qin Guan smiled faintly. “This man is a tavern waiter, Zhan Butou. Think about it—what should a tavern waiter be like?”
Zhan Yang thought for a moment. “Quick-moving, nimble-handed, sweet-tongued, and sharp-witted.”
Qin Guan nodded. “Exactly. But right now, he shows none of that agility or sharpness. He’s far too nervous. The direction of his gaze suggests he was thinking of how to respond while answering—meaning he was likely fabricating his answers. His tense, rigid posture indicates he didn’t want to be questioned by you. Even when he spoke, he held back and concealed things. And the movement of his legs shows he subconsciously wanted to get away from you—even to the point of running.”
Zhan Yang raised an eyebrow, still somewhat skeptical. “What Ninth Miss said—”
“Stop! Don’t run!”
Before Zhan Yang could finish, a loud shout came from behind him. He spun around to see the middle-aged man already sprinting away. Zhan Yang’s eyes widened in shock, and he turned back to Qin Guan with disbelief.
Qin Guan smiled. “Go apprehend him, Zhan Butou. Even if he didn’t do it himself, he knows something about what happened.”Zhan Yang moved his lips, momentarily at a loss for words. Having served as a constable for many years and handled numerous cases, he had thought Qin Guan's corpse examination skills were already remarkable, but he never expected her to perceive such minute details with such clarity.
Zhan Yang cupped his hands in salute, said "I must take my leave first," and turned to chase after the others.
Seeing Zhan Yang depart, Qin Guan finally lowered the carriage curtain and ordered their return to the manor.
Inside the carriage, Fuling gazed at Qin Guan in awe. "Miss, you're truly incredible—able to tell at a glance that the man was lying... Then... if that's the case, could anyone's lies escape your notice?"
Qin Guan chuckled softly and shook her head. "Of course not. I haven't developed the habit permanently. I only observed with scrutiny because Constable Zhan was interrogating that person. Everyone has their own habits in speech and behavior, yet there are universal traits. Under specific emotional states, people exhibit similar telltale gestures, which can be used to judge the truth of their words. But in daily conversations, if I don't suspect someone, I won't scrutinize them intentionally, so I might not detect anything. Moreover, some people are so accustomed to lying casually that unless it's a serious matter, ordinary falsehoods won't reveal obvious flaws."
Fuling understood. "So that's how it is. It's fortunate you don't always have a discerning mind—that would be too exhausting."
"Indeed," Qin Guan agreed, then laughed again. "Besides, if we had to verify the truth of every mundane word in daily life, it would be quite tedious. And some truths and falsehoods don't need to be distinguished so clearly; it doesn't hinder anything..."
Fuling didn't grasp it at first, but after a moment's thought, she realized what Qin Guan meant.
Two quarters of an hour later, the carriage approached Loyal Marquis Manor.
Qin Guan hadn't dwelled on the earlier commotion, but just as they neared the manor's entrance, the carriage suddenly halted again. Cheng Hu called from outside, "Miss... something seems off..."
Qin Guan hummed in acknowledgment, lifted the curtain to look, and her eyes widened in surprise.
When they had left, the area in front of the manor was empty, but in this short time, over ten carriages had gathered there, each adorned with ornate canopies and vermilion lacquer, exuding luxury. Qin Guan frowned. "Is the manor hosting a banquet today?"
Fuling shook her head. "It shouldn't be. I haven't heard Madam mention anything."
Puzzled, Qin Guan remarked, "Then why so many people all at once? One might think the manor set up a stage for a opera performance today."
Cheng Hu suggested, "Miss, shall we take the west side gate? The main entrance is blocked, and the carriage can't get through."
Qin Guan lowered the curtain and nodded with a soft "Mm."
As soon as she spoke, the carriage diverted to the manor's side gate. Fortunately, it was deserted there. Qin Guan alighted and entered, but before she had taken more than a few steps, she saw Baiying hurrying toward her. "Miss—"
Qin Guan was slightly surprised. "Why are you here? Has something happened?"
Baiying's expression was peculiar. "Miss, Madam sent me to fetch you and have you take a detour back to Pine Breeze Courtyard directly."
Qin Guan had thought Qin Shu and his wife would be concerned about her palace visit and intended to report to them, but now she was being directed straight to her own courtyard. Recalling the carriages at the main gate, she glanced toward the main hall and asked, "Are there guests in the manor?"Baiying nodded. "Right after you left, several marchionesses arrived at the manor. Then more and more people came in succession. They were all delivering New Year's gifts to the marquis' household, but in reality, they wanted to 'seek out the young lady' for medical treatment!"
Qin Guan paused mid-step. "Seek me for treatment?!"
Baiying nodded. "Granny Yu said everyone knows you saved the Empress Dowager and about the imperial rewards. They understand your medical skills surpass even the imperial physicians', so they've all come flocking. Granny Yu also said some might just be here to watch the spectacle. Anyway, the entire main courtyard is packed right now. The mistress wants you to avoid them for now."
Qin Guan didn't know whether to laugh or cry. Baiying continued, "I was watching at the main gate earlier and saw your carriage didn't come through the main entrance, so I knew you must have taken the side gate. That's how I found you here."
Qin Guan chuckled helplessly. "Can't these noble ladies find good physicians in the city? Why come to me?"
She wasn't a physician who kept regular clinic hours - why would they seek her out?
Baiying shook her head. "Granny Yu said word of your deeds last night has spread throughout the capital. Everyone knows the Qin Manor has a Little Medicine Immortal. Some who came have chronic illnesses, some want to verify your medical skills, and since you saved the Empress Dowager, the marquis' household status is bound to rise significantly, so there are also those coming to curry favor."
"This is really..."
Qin Guan was momentarily at a loss for words, simply following Baiying as they detoured back to Pine Breeze Courtyard.
......
......
Yan Che traveled light out of the palace. When he reached the marquis' manor gate, even he was startled by the array of carriages before it.
He Yin, also in plain clothes, frowned slightly. "Your Highness, is the marquis' household hosting guests today? If so, your visit will surely become public knowledge. Your Highness?"
Yan Che's eyes darkened. "Today is the first day of the New Year. Even if they were hosting, it shouldn't be until after the third day."
The customs of Great Zhou rarely included hosting guests on New Year's Day. During the New Year, especially on the first day, families typically gathered together - who would be busy entertaining outside guests on the first day?
He Yin smiled wryly. "But this display is quite substantial. If Your Highness doesn't mind everyone knowing, it shouldn't matter."
Yan Che had been thoroughly stifled in the palace and finally managed to get out - how could he consider returning empty-handed?
After a moment's thought, Yan Che asked, "Does the marquis' manor have a side gate?"
He Yin's eyes shifted. "There should be one." He then leaned out and instructed the driving guard.
The guard, named Zheng Wei, was captain of the Eastern Palace Imperial Guards. Upon hearing this, he immediately turned into a small alley beside the marquis' manor. Soon enough, they indeed spotted the manor's side gate. Qin Guan had just entered through here not long ago. The gatekeeper never expected the Crown Prince to visit - when the gate opened and He Yin announced the Crown Prince's arrival, the gatekeeper panicked and hurried off to report.
Yan Che sat in the carriage and soon heard Qin Shu and Qin Yan's voices.
Qin Shu strode out from inside, lifting his robe to bow. "Your humble servant pays respects to Your Highness the Crown Prince—"
Qin Yan also bowed. When he looked up, Yan Che was descending from the carriage.
"It's been long since I last visited your household. Is your household hosting guests today?"Yan Che entered through the side gate, clearly having seen the scene at the main entrance. Qin Shu gave a bitter smile as he invited the Crown Prince into the manor while explaining the situation. Yan Che frowned slightly upon hearing this, "Does Ninth Miss of your household already wield such influence?"
Qin Shu smiled wryly, "Your Highness knows how it is in the capital—there are plenty of onlookers, opportunists testing the waters, and those with ill intentions. Very few are genuinely here for medical treatment. The main courtyard is completely crowded, so I must ask Your Highness to proceed to the study."
This suited Yan Che perfectly. He nodded indifferently, "Even so, your Ninth Miss has indeed gained considerable fame. Moreover, she saved the Empress Dowager, which is truly remarkable."
Though Yan Che's words sounded like praise, Qin Shu momentarily missed the nuance and smiled, "Wan Yatou has surprised us all this time. After all, she's so young. If she can truly revitalize the Empress Dowager's health, it would be her great fortune."
Yan Che pressed his lips together without responding and followed Qin Shu to the study. Though the marquis' estate wasn't as large as the Qin Manor in Jinzhou, it was still spacious. Qin Shu's study formed its own courtyard, elegantly and securely arranged for receiving important guests. Along the way, Yan Che didn't encounter a single servant, yet upon arriving at the study, hot tea and pastries were already prepared.
Yan Che was quite satisfied, finally dispelling the anger he'd carried from the Eastern Palace.
Upon taking his seat, Yan Che remarked, "It's much more comfortable here with you, my dear subject."
He Yin, seated in a subordinate position to Yan Che, understood from these words that Yan Che was still vexed by earlier matters. He Yin smiled bitterly at the thought. Though Yan Che had reached adulthood, having a few concubines wouldn't be improper, yet he exercised remarkable restraint in this regard. Not only had the Empress expressed concern, but others had also begun scheming. Since being appointed Crown Prince, even more people tried to push women into Yan Che's orbit—some hoping to secure future positions in the harem, others with malicious intent to ensnare him with sensual pleasures. However, having witnessed harem intrigues since childhood, how could Yan Che possibly fall for such tricks?
Qin Shu, seated opposite He Yin, smiled and said, "Your Highness's sudden visit caught your servant unprepared. I fear I've been neglectful. Let me have some wine and dishes prepared. Since it's New Year's Day, would Your Highness honor my humble home with a cup of wine?"
The corners of Yan Che's mouth finally lifted in a rare smile as he nodded, "That would be excellent."
Delighted, Qin Shu immediately instructed Qin Yan to inform Hu Shi.
After Qin Yan left, Qin Shu asked, "Has Your Highness come to relax, or is there other important business?"
Yan Che's expression relaxed slightly, "Nothing urgent. The southern corruption cases have been properly handled, as you're well aware. I simply felt stifled in the palace today and came to clear my mind."
Hearing this, Qin Shu felt relieved and his demeanor eased as he began sharing amusing anecdotes from daily life.
However, their conversation eventually turned to court affairs. Yan Che said, "His Majesty has appointed Prince Rui's heir to the position of Left Vice Minister of Justice, temporarily filling the vacancy there. Currently among the Six Ministries, you manage the Ministry of Personnel while Justice and War remain most critical. Though Qin Yan previously intended to assist me, Yan Chi hasn't responded. Being a military man, he likely acts entirely according to his own judgment. Winning him over remains quite difficult."Qin Shu pondered for a moment and said, "Prince Rui's heir is indeed difficult to deal with, but as long as he hasn't returned to the Northwest Frontier Army, given time, it's not impossible. When he realizes that no one in the capital can remain aloof, he will naturally choose the right side."
Yan Che nodded, his gaze shifting as he said, "By the way, when Lord Zheng came to report on that case last time, he mentioned how much you all helped. The case was solved, and the Lin'an magistrate received a reward, but you, the unsung hero behind it, were overlooked. If there's anything you want, as long as I have it, I won't be stingy."
Qin Shu chuckled warmly, "Your Highness flatters me. Assisting you is my duty—how could I dare ask for a reward?"
Yan Che took a sip of tea and suddenly remarked, "I heard the case was solved entirely because you recommended an extraordinary individual, someone with remarkable skills in corpse examination?"
A glint flashed in Qin Shu's eyes, realizing Zheng Baishi had kept some details vague. "Lord Zheng is correct. I do indeed know such a person." He paused meaningfully. "Does Your Highness wish to know who it is?"
Yan Che set down his teacup. "Indeed. I'd like to meet this person."
Qin Shu straightened his posture, hesitation flickering across his face. Noticing this, Yan Che raised an eyebrow. "What is it? Is it inconvenient?"
Qin Shu quickly shook his head. "Not at all, but this person... has a rather unique status. Moreover, Your Highness has already met her. I only hope you won't be angered upon learning the truth."
Yan Che's brows lifted. "I've met her?" He mentally reviewed all the Qin Manor retainers he'd encountered but couldn't pinpoint anyone. Yet, since this person had aided him, why would he be angry? "Rest assured, I merely wish to acknowledge this remarkable individual and offer a reward. How could I possibly be angered?"
Seeing this, Qin Shu had no choice but to rise. "Very well. Please wait a moment, Your Highness. I'll make the arrangements."
Yan Che nodded, and Qin Shu departed. Once alone in the room with He Yin, He Yin wondered aloud, "Your Highness, which of the Marquis' retainers have you met?"
Yan Che shook his head. "When Lord Zheng mentioned it, he said they'd recently taken this person under their wing. But lately, I've only seen the Marquis and Qin Yan. Could it be Qin Yan?" He then dismissed the idea. "Impossible. If it were him, he'd have stepped forward sooner. If not, perhaps it's a guard I overlooked?"
Since the Great Zhou dynasty had no tradition of women serving in the lowly coroner's role, Yan Che only considered men. Hearing this, He Yin nodded. "Your Highness makes a valid point. That's the most likely scenario. Even if it is a guard, it matters little—as long as they're useful and can serve the Crown Prince in the future. Alternatively, you could request to have them transferred to the Eastern Palace."
A faint smile touched Yan Che's lips. "If they're truly exceptional, having them in the Eastern Palace would be ideal. But I wonder if the Marquis would agree."
He Yin laughed. "Why wouldn't he? The Marquis and his son are both deeply loyal to Your Highness. Keeping such talent by their side would only make it less convenient when you need them. It'd be better to gift them directly to you."
Yan Che found this reasoning sound and decided to first reward Qin Shu and Qin Yan upon meeting the individual, then broach the subject of transferring the person. That way, neither Qin Shu nor Qin Yan would feel shortchanged.
To conceal Yan Che's presence, Qin Shu had dismissed all servants from the study's inner and outer courtyards. Now, even delivering a message required his personal attention. With him gone and not yet returned, the study courtyard fell into a profound silence, broken only by the occasional chirp of birds.Upon hearing the birdsong, Yan Che felt the urge to take a stroll. Setting down his teacup and pushing the door open, he found the courtyard adorned with verdant bamboo and plum blossoms braving the snow, exuding an air of elegance and tranquility. Yan Che nodded inwardly in approval.
The last time he had visited was in autumn, when the plum trees had not yet bloomed. With this thought, he followed the corridor westward toward the plum trees. Seeing this, He Yin followed at a discreet distance.
...
...
"What? The Crown Prince is here? And he wants to see Qin Guan?" Qin Chaoyu stood up abruptly.
Mo Yi hurriedly replied, "Yes, Miss. But he didn't specifically ask for Ninth Miss—he wishes to see the person who assisted in solving the case last time. The Marquis personally informed Madam earlier, and Madam has sent the heir apparent to fetch Ninth Miss."
Qin Chaoyu frowned slightly, her expression turning grave. Yan Che was not a man swayed by beauty, and he hadn't explicitly asked for Qin Guan. Yet, he would soon discover that beyond her striking appearance and medical skills, Qin Guan also assisted in corpse examinations. Although the coroner's path was considered a lowly profession, this time she had genuinely aided him. With Yan Che's discernment, he would undoubtedly hold Qin Guan in higher regard...
Noting Qin Chaoyu's somber expression, Mo Yi whispered, "Does Miss not wish for Ninth Miss to meet the Crown Prince?"
Qin Chaoyu chuckled lightly. "How could I not want that? If they don't meet today, they will eventually. If he doesn't learn of it today, he will sooner or later." As she spoke, her heart sank slightly. She could not change this reality, and unexpectedly Qin Guan possessed skills she herself lacked.
"Then what does Miss plan to do? By my estimate, the heir apparent has already reached Ninth Miss's quarters."
Qin Chaoyu composed herself. "Since it cannot be changed, I might as well take this opportunity to test her." With her chin lifted slightly, she asked, "Did the Crown Prince come alone? Is he in the study now?"
Mo Yi shook her head. "He brought Lord He. The Marquis dismissed the servants there, so only the Crown Prince and Lord He remain. Madam has already ordered food and wine to be sent to the study later. The main courtyard is still bustling with guests, and Madam is overwhelmed with hosting duties."
Qin Chaoyu nodded and suddenly turned to leave. Mo Yi quickly grabbed a cape and draped it over her mistress. The two hurried to the main courtyard. After inquiring about Hu Shi's whereabouts, they found her. Qin Shu was about to depart when he saw Qin Chaoyu and smiled. "Yu'er, the Crown Prince is here. I was just planning to have you pay your respects to him later—"
Qin Chaoyu curved her lips slightly. "What is Father going to do now?"
Qin Shu replied, "The Crown Prince and Lord He are in the study. It wouldn't be proper to leave them alone there. I was just about to return."
Qin Chaoyu's eyes sparkled as she said, "Today is the first day of the New Year. Since the Crown Prince has graced us with his presence, doesn't Father intend to prepare something special?"
Her words reminded Qin Shu. "You've just reminded me! Perfect—we can present the 'Thousand Rivers Spring Journey' painting we acquired earlier to the Crown Prince. I'll have Wu Yang retrieve it from the estate treasury now."
Qin Chaoyu pondered briefly. "A single painting may not suffice, especially with Lord He present as well."
He Yin, as the Eastern Palace Chief Administrator, was Yan Che's most trusted confidant and certainly not one to be overlooked.Qin Shu frowned, "Then I'll go to the treasury myself." With that, Qin Shu quickened his pace and instructed Hu Shi, "Make sure the wine and dishes you've prepared are sent over quickly—"
After Qin Shu left, Qin Chaoyu's expression turned slightly tense. "Mother, are the wine and dishes ready?"
Hu Shi shook her head, "The wine is ready, but the dishes need a little more time."
Qin Chaoyu then said, "Then... send the wine over first."
Hu Shi looked puzzled, and Qin Chaoyu glanced outside, "Has brother returned yet?"
Hu Shi shook her head again, "He went to fetch your ninth sister. Oh, by the way, the Crown Prince wishes to see your ninth sister."
As she spoke, a trace of worry surfaced in Hu Shi's eyes. Mother and daughter exchanged glances, both understanding each other's concerns. Qin Chaoyu suddenly leaned in and whispered a few words into Hu Shi's ear. Hu Shi was taken aback, "Yu'er? Are you sure?"
Qin Chaoyu nodded firmly, "Yes, Mother, let's arrange it this way."
Hu Shi hesitated slightly, and Qin Chaoyu added, "If she truly harbors no ill intentions, then I will trust her."
Hu Shi sighed, "But... aren't you afraid this might backfire?"
Qin Chaoyu lifted her chin slightly, "If it's the Crown Prince... then I'll accept it."
Hu Shi seemed about to say more but held back, seeing Qin Chaoyu's resolute expression. She could only sigh again, "Very well, then."
Soon, a somewhat bewildered Qin Guan followed Qin Yan to the rear hall. A pot of wine sat beside Hu Shi, who smiled upon seeing Qin Guan. "Guan'er, you're here. Did your third brother explain everything?"
Qin Guan smiled wryly, "Third Brother only said a guest wishes to see me, but didn't mention who."
Hu Shi chuckled, "Don't be nervous. This is a good thing. Your uncle and the guest are in the study courtyard. You may go." She gestured to the pot of wine beside her. "Please take this wine over first. Yan'er, wait a moment—the dishes will be ready shortly."
Qin Guan knew the way to the study well enough to go alone, yet she couldn't shake a strange feeling. Was it Zheng Baishi? Li Muyun? Or someone seeking medical treatment?
Though filled with questions, Qin Guan found it difficult to press further in the face of Hu Shi's cheerful demeanor. Resigned, she picked up the pot of wine and headed toward the study. In broad daylight, within the Marquis's estate, she doubted Hu Shi meant her any harm.
With these thoughts, Qin Guan felt no fear, only curiosity about the identity of her mysterious visitor.
Meanwhile, Yan Che stood beneath a plum tree, his gaze not on the blossoms but on a small sparrow perched atop the branches. Despite the winter chill, which made birds a rare sight, this drab little sparrow dared to peck at the plum buds. Rather than shooing it away, Yan Che watched with mild amusement, captivated by the bold creature.
Lost in his observations, he was interrupted by the sound of soft footsteps.
Yan Che looked up and immediately spotted Qin Guan. She wore the same simple yet elegant dress from her earlier palace visit. However, his brow furrowed in confusion. This was Qin Shu's study, and he had taken measures to conceal his presence. If anyone were to come, it should have been Qin Shu or Qin Yan. So why was Qin Guan here?Not only that, Yan Che noticed at a glance that Qin Guan had come alone, with no one accompanying her. What disgusted him even more was the wine pot she held in her hands, reigniting the anger he had just suppressed.
Qin Guan, appearing alone in a place she shouldn't be, immediately reminded Yan Che of the scheming women he had witnessed in the imperial harem. Frowning, his eyes revealed a trace of contempt.
He had always disliked women who feigned vulnerability and innocence. Though he hadn't been sure whether Qin Guan was the scheming type, seeing her arrive alone with a wine pot confirmed his suspicions.
What a refined and gentle facade the Ninth Miss of Qin Manor put on! In just one night, she had become the renowned Medicine Immortal of the capital. And now, upon learning of his visit to the manor, she dared to come alone with wine, clearly intending to seduce him!
Yan Che's gaze turned cold as he stepped out from under the plum blossom tree. The moment he emerged, Qin Guan naturally noticed him.
Yan Che clearly saw a flicker of surprise in Qin Guan's eyes. He curled his lips into a cold smile. What excellent acting! Pretending it was an accidental encounter when she clearly knew he was here? If it were truly accidental, why would she be carrying wine? And why would Qin Manor send Qin Guan, who had nothing to do with his visit, to deliver it?
Yan Che understood Qin Shu's intentions—if wine were to be delivered, it should have been Qin Chaoyu who brought it.
After pondering, Yan Che became even more convinced of Qin Guan's motives—
"Greetings, Your Highness the Crown Prince—"
Qin Guan bowed in salute, then furrowed her brows. So it was the Crown Prince who wanted to see her?
Was it because of the Empress Dowager's illness? Or because of that case?
Though surprised, Qin Guan quickly gathered her thoughts.
Just as she hesitated, she heard Yan Che's cold voice.
"What are you doing here?!"
Yan Che's tone was harsh and clearly hostile. Qin Guan was taken aback, unable to comprehend the source of his condescending anger. She straightened up and met his gaze, sharply noticing the contempt in his eyes.
Qin Guan was utterly astonished. "Did... Your Highness not summon me?"
After asking, she quickly scanned her surroundings. Aside from an unfamiliar man, Qin Shu was nowhere to be seen, deepening her confusion. Instinctively, she also felt displeased at the Crown Prince's inexplicable anger. Moreover, why was he looking at her with such disdain, as if she were some lowly creature?
Yan Che let out another cold laugh. "I summoned you?"
His questioning tone left Qin Guan even more bewildered. Suppressing her discomfort, she remained composed and said, "Your Highness did not summon me?" Feeling it inappropriate, she took a step back. "In that case, this commoner shall not disturb Your Highness any further."
As Qin Guan prepared to leave, Yan Che narrowed his eyes and said coldly, "Ninth Miss, you've already made yourself known throughout the capital as the Medicine Immortal through your own efforts. Now that you've come alone, could it be that you still covet the wealth and glory of the Eastern Palace?"
At first, Qin Guan didn't understand his meaning. But upon reflection, she realized the source of the contempt in his eyes—he thought she had come to attract his attention and curry favor with him?!
With this realization, Qin Guan's gaze sharpened.
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