Tuoba Wu had beaten Liu Yun right at the entrance of Yan Huai's main tent. Being a woman and a princess of Northern Wei, Yan Huai could hardly administer justice. He could only console Liu Yun while feeling utterly exasperated. Tuoba Wu's temperament was far more troublesome than Tuoba Hong's. If anything truly happened to Tuoba Hong this time, who knew what chaos Tuoba Wu might stir up.
The large dispatched troops set out again swiftly. Although reinforcements had been sent promptly last night, they encountered heavy rain. Now, daytime offered the final hope. Due to Tuoba Hong's situation, all activities in the camp had been halted. Both Great Zhou and Northern Wei anxiously awaited good news from Lin Zhang.
Only the Western Liang contingent remained indifferent. Liu Yun, in particular, wished for Tuoba Hong to perish on the mountain!
Inside the Western Liang tent, Liu Yun's face was slathered with ointment, and his abdomen still ached faintly. A servant said sympathetically, "That Northern Wei princess is too savage, beating Your Highness like that. With such behavior, she'll surely never marry."
Liu Yun touched his face, wincing at the slightest contact, his eyes burning with deeper resentment. "Tuoba Wu, let's see if Tuoba Hong makes it back safely this time!"
The servant's eyes flickered. "Your Highness, should we mention that day..."
Liu Yun glared at him. "Say what? What does Tuoba Hong's affair have to do with us?"
The servant immediately fell silent. Liu Yun, stewing in humiliation and rage over his bruised and swollen face, asked, "What has Fifth Princess been doing these past two days?"
The servant hurriedly replied, "Fifth Princess has been staying close to Her Majesty the Empress. Yesterday, Little Blue went missing, and Fifth Princess was very distressed. The deputy commander of the Imperial Guards helped find it, and now she treasures Little Blue like a precious gem."
Liu Yun gritted his teeth. "Waiting like this is pointless. If Tuoba Hong is found today, our chances are too slim. Here's what you do—find a way to deliver that item to Fifth Princess—"
A glint flashed in the servant's eyes, and he nodded repeatedly in agreement.
Though the rain had lightened, it hadn't stopped. Gray clouds loomed over the camp, threatening another downpour at any moment. Qin Guan stayed with the Empress Dowager in the main tent. Before long, the Empress arrived with Yan Che and Yan Zhen to pay their respects.
Yan Zhen cradled Little Blue affectionately, while Yan Sui's eyes were fixed intently on the creature. Yet, since Yan Zhen didn't offer to let him touch it, he dared not approach. The Empress Dowager observed this and sighed softly.
Zhao Shuhua remarked, "With last night's heavy rain, does Your Majesty find the dampness too oppressive? If it's uncomfortable, we can have servants light a stove."
Spring nights were naturally chilly, and the rain had indeed brought moisture into the tent. However, the main tents were built on elevated platforms, mitigating the dampness somewhat. The Empress Dowager waved her hand dismissively and smiled. "Ninth girl brewed some warming tea. We've all felt warmer after drinking it. A little dampness is nothing—"
Zhao Shuhua raised an eyebrow. "Ninth Miss has such a beneficial thing, yet only shares it with Her Majesty?"
Qin Guan quickly rose to apologize. The Empress Dowager chuckled. "Give some of your tea to the Empress. It truly is effective—consider it a medicated tea."Qin Guan hurried to the back with Fuling to fetch the medicated tea. When they returned, Zhao Shuhua noticed that Qin Guan had divided the tea into small, neatly wrapped packets—a pleasing sight. Qin Guan handed them to the Empress's attendant, explaining how to prepare and consume it.
The Empress remarked with satisfaction, "Fortunately, Ninth Miss accompanied the Empress Dowager this time. Not only has Her Majesty’s health improved, but even Ninth Miss has become livelier. It’s a pity the incident with the Northern Wei Crown Prince disrupted what could have been another grand hunting day."
The Empress Dowager sighed. "Indeed. How is the Third Prince of Western Liang faring?"
Yan Che promptly replied, "Your grandson has already visited and reassured him. He is now well recovered."
The Empress Dowager shook her head. "That Northern Wei princess is far too reckless—"
Zhao Shuhua nodded in agreement. "Yes, one wonders if all Northern Wei women are like this." She glanced at Yan Zhen. "If that’s truly the case, any daughter of Great Zhou sent there would suffer."
The Empress Dowager raised an eyebrow. "Does the Empress mean…" Her gaze swept over Yan Zhen. Could the Empress be considering sending Yan Zhen for a political marriage?
The Empress smiled wryly. "Naturally, I am reluctant. But if the Northern Wei Crown Prince recovers, someone will eventually have to go to Northern Wei, won’t they? These past two days, the Emperor has been discussing with his ministers, and most believe an alliance through marriage with Northern Wei is not entirely unfavorable."
The Empress Dowager nodded but remained silent. After recent events, she no longer supported a marital alliance between Great Zhou and Northern Wei. Yet, such unions were political strategies for mutual benefit—she could not and would not interfere. Ultimately, the decision rested with Yan Huai.
Seated beside Zhao Shuhua, Yan Che’s attention was fixed on the Empress Dowager, though his eyes occasionally drifted toward Qin Guan. Standing behind the Empress Dowager, Qin Guan was quite close to Yan Sui, who sat beside Her Majesty. Uninterested in the conversation, Yan Sui’s gaze remained fixed on Qin Guan. Though poised and dignified, Qin Guan subtly soothed Yan Sui with her eyes.
Yan Che had little interest in bonding with a child like Yan Sui, and he was well aware of the boy’s reclusive nature. Yet, he hadn’t expected Yan Sui to be so attached to Qin Guan. This Qin Guan never failed to surprise him.
After conversing a while longer with the Empress Dowager, Zhao Shuhua noticed it was nearing noon—the time for Her Majesty’s nap—and took her leave with Yan Che. Glancing at the medicated tea in the attendant’s hands, she said offhandedly, "Set this aside for now."
Clearly, Zhao Shuhua had no intention of actually drinking it.
The three returned to the main tent. Feeling weary, Zhao Shuhua allowed Yan Che and Yan Zhen to remain in the outer chamber while she retired to the inner quarters to rest. Yan Che stood for a moment, then suddenly instructed Tang Fu, "Fetch the medicated tea given by Ninth Miss. Since Her Majesty dislikes the medicinal taste, it would be a waste otherwise."
Tang Fu was momentarily surprised but complied. After retrieving the tea, he thoughtfully advised the attendant not to report the matter to the Empress before departing. Back in the Crown Prince’s tent, Yan Che gestured with his chin. "Brew a cup. Let’s try it."
Tang Fu was again taken aback. Both the Empress and his master disliked medicinal flavors—why would the Crown Prince want to taste it? Despite his puzzlement, he prepared a cup. Yan Che took a sip and frowned. "It’s truly unpleasant."
Tang Fu hurriedly said, "This old servant will fetch a fresh brew at once." He moved to take the cup and discard its contents, but Yan Che shifted his hand, preventing him. "I’ve been feeling somewhat fatigued lately. Unpleasant as it is, I should drink some. Store the rest properly and leave me."
Tang Fu’s eyes widened in astonishment. After a long pause, he turned to put away the medicated tea.Tang Fu had just prepared to withdraw when, upon exiting the tent, he saw Qin Chaoyu and Yan Zhen approaching together. She was accompanied by two maidservants, one of whom carried a birdcage. Tang Fu’s smile broadened as he stepped forward to pay his respects. Although Qin Chaoyu had not yet married Yan Che, she was the designated Crown Princess, and Tang Fu dared not be the slightest bit careless.
The continuous drizzle had left Qin Chaoyu bored in her own tent. Moreover, she had few opportunities to see Yan Che these days. Therefore, she first went to Zhao Shuhua’s quarters to inquire after Qin An, then asked Yan Zhen to accompany her under the pretext of presenting birds as a gift when visiting Yan Che. Coming alone would have been improper, but accompanying Yan Zhen allowed her to avoid such concerns.
"Is His Highness the Crown Prince available?"
Tang Fu quickly nodded. "Yes, yes. Please wait a moment, Your Highness and Eighth Young Lady."
With that, Tang Fu hurried into the large tent to announce their arrival. As he entered, he saw that Yan Che had nearly finished the medicated tea. Tang Fu’s heart skipped a beat, and he hastily informed him that Qin Chaoyu and Yan Zhen had arrived. Yan Che frowned slightly but had no choice but to instruct Tang Fu to invite them in.
Yan Che placed the lid on the teacup and straightened his posture imperceptibly.
Yan Zhen, holding Xiao Lan, had no intention of speaking with Yan Che. Qin Chaoyu entered the tent with a hint of reserve but still spoke up, "Your Highness, the day before yesterday, Her Majesty the Empress bestowed upon me a pair of green finches. I found them even more beautiful than those sold in the bird markets. Not only that, but their chirping is exceptionally pleasant. I know Your Highness keeps a bird in the palace, so I specially came to present this pair of green finches to you. Please take a look—"
Qin Chaoyu stepped aside, allowing Yan Che to see the green finches in the cage.
The birds were about half the size of a palm, with emerald-green wings and bright yellow beaks. Their feathers were glossy, and their chirping was clear and lively—truly a lovely pair of birds...
"Are you suggesting I take them into the palace?"
Qin Chaoyu had expected Yan Che to be delighted upon seeing the birds, but instead, his expression remained unmoved.
Puzzled, Qin Chaoyu smiled and said, "Of course. Since Your Highness is fond of birds, and this pair is particularly rare..."
As she spoke, she felt a hint of shyness. Gifting something in pairs often carried subtle implications. However, after she finished speaking, Yan Che remained silent. After a moment, he said, "It would be better to release them."
Qin Chaoyu was taken aback. "Release them?"
Yan Che looked at her. "They are birds of the mountains. How could they be happy confined in a cage? You find their chirping clear and pleasant, but you do not realize it is their lament."
At first, Qin Chaoyu had thought nothing of it, but upon hearing Yan Che’s words, she suddenly felt a chill down her spine. The birds’ chirping now seemed unbearable to hear. Her smile stiffened, and she did not know where to place her hands. "I... I hadn’t considered that, Your Highness. Indeed, capturing them like this is truly cruel. I will have them released at once." With that, she glanced at Mo Yi, who was holding the cage.
Mo Yi nodded, walked to the entrance, and opened the cage door.
As soon as the door opened, the two finches chirped urgently and flew out swiftly, disappearing from sight in the blink of an eye—a clear sign of their eagerness to escape the cage. Qin Chaoyu let out a sigh of relief. Yan Che said, "Thank you for your kindness. However, it is best not to confine birds in cages. The bird I keep in the palace has injured wings and can no longer fly away."Fearing Qin Chaoyu might lose face, Yan Che ultimately offered a brief explanation.
Qin Chaoyu forced a smile. "So that's how it is. I misunderstood. I didn't know before, but I'll remember from now on." As she spoke, Qin Chaoyu's nostrils twitched as she suddenly caught a faint medicinal scent. "Your Highness just took medicine? Are you feeling unwell?"
Yan Che's brow furrowed slightly, and Tang Fu's heart tightened. For some reason, he felt deeply uneasy about his master drinking Qin Guan's medicated tea in Qin Chaoyu's presence...
"No discomfort. I just had some minor abrasions from yesterday's grand hunt and applied some ointment."
Yan Che lied with perfect composure, causing Tang Fu to lower his head.
Qin Chaoyu felt relieved. Seeing that Yan Che showed no intention of further conversation, she took her leave.
Yan Che stood to see her out, which finally eased Qin Chaoyu's mind somewhat.
After Qin Chaoyu and Yan Zhen had left, Yan Che stood dazed at the tent entrance.
He hadn't needed to lie—after all, Qin Guan's medicated tea had therapeutic properties—but for some reason, he'd instinctively chosen deception. Remembering Zhao Shuhua's past words, Yan Che stepped out and headed toward Yan Huai's main tent. These weren't thoughts he should entertain. Right now, he needed to focus on what required his attention.
After the time it takes for an incense stick to burn, Yan Che selected fifty mounted soldiers and also departed the camp, heading straight for Mount Wei.
First, the Imperial Guards commander had been dispatched with troops to search the mountain. Then, even the Great Zhou Crown Prince had led soldiers up the slopes. Upon learning this, Tuoba Wu's anger finally subsided slightly. Yet until Tuoba Hong returned safe and sound, she couldn't rest easy. Watching the gloomy, overcast sky outside, Tuoba Wu's heart remained shrouded in shadow.
After a full day of anxious waiting, when darkness fell, Lin Zhang and Yan Che returned to camp with the main forces. To everyone's disappointment, the Northern Wei Crown Prince Tuoba Hong remained missing.
While the vast expanse of Mount Wei made hiding someone seemingly easy, with Lin Zhang—who knew the mountain terrain well—leading a systematic search, concealing a person became remarkably difficult. Yet Tuoba Hong remained completely untraceable.
Yan Huai summoned Yan Chi, Yan Qi, and others to the main tent. Tuoba Wu and Tuoba Rui sat upright in the foremost seats on the left.
"Still no sign of Crown Prince Tuoba. If anyone has good ideas or has considered other possibilities, speak freely!"
With the second night approaching, if Tuoba Hong were injured, the likelihood of successful rescue diminished with each passing moment. Even if he were merely lost, two nights and a day of heavy rain would have taken their toll.
Yan Che, who had joined the mountain search that day, offered, "Father, while ascending today, we discovered several landslides on Mount Wei with numerous rocks having slid downhill. Could it be that..."
Had Tuoba Hong been buried by a landslide?!
This wasn't a possibility Yan Huai wished to consider, yet it held some plausibility.
Yan Qi stepped forward. "Father, could the Crown Prince have gone in the wrong direction, moving farther away from us?"
Yan Huai preferred Yan Qi's theory over Yan Che's. He turned to Lin Zhang. "What do you think?"
"Both princes' theories are possible. Mount Wei is indeed easy to get lost in."
"Impossible." The objection came from Tuoba Wu, her face cold. "My elder brother never gets lost even on endless snow plains. How could he lose his way in mere mountains and forests?"
"Your Highness, anything is possible. For now, we can only speculate optimistically."Lin Zhang spoke a word, and Tuoba Wu hesitated for a moment before saying, "Then what should we do now? My elder brother disappeared in the Great Zhou's royal hunting grounds. The Emperor must give us an explanation."
Yan Huai replied unhurriedly, "Naturally. Up to now, haven't we been doing our best?"
To this point, Tuoba Wu had nothing to say. Yan Huai thought for a moment and said, "Perhaps we truly need to expand the search area. The foothills to the east and west, as well as the mountains about seven or eight li due north, must all be searched. Lin Zhang, you go rest for two hours first. Crown Prince, you select another two thousand soldiers. Yan Chi, I need you to lead a team."
Finding someone was much simpler than fighting a war. Among these people, if anyone had the best hope of finding Tuoba Hong while leading troops, it would undoubtedly be Yan Chi. However, Yan Chi currently held a civil official position, which was why Yan Huai hadn't assigned him initially.
Yan Chi stepped forward, "Yan Chi obeys the command."
Hearing that Yan Chi would lead troops to search for Tuoba Hong, Tuoba Wu felt complex emotions. She admired Yan Chi, yet she couldn't catch his eye. Not only that, but Yan Chi had killed her Crescent Moon. Now, she wondered if he held a grudge against her—would he truly do his best to find Tuoba Hong?
"Commander Lin will lead one team, the Crown Prince another, and Yan Chi the third. Each will take a different direction. The Fifth Prince and several other guards will also split up and accompany them. Try to discover any traces related to Crown Prince Tuoba. Everyone should rest and gather their energy now. We depart at midnight, traveling through the night. By daybreak, we'll reach the search areas. If we still can't find him this time..."
The main tent fell into silence. Yan Huai narrowed his eyes and said, "I will naturally give Northern Wei an explanation."
Once the order was given, the entire camp sprang into action. Fortunately, the weather cooperated—the rain gradually lightened. Soon, two thousand new soldiers were quickly mustered. Yan Chi and the other two would each lead about seven hundred troops. Since Lin Zhang and the Crown Prince had been up the mountain during the day, they were now resting, so Yan Chi took charge of organizing the troops in the square.
This search mission would cover extremely long distances, and it was highly likely they wouldn't return for two or three days. Therefore, the soldiers needed to carry not only their weapons but also provisions. As the departure time drew near, Tuoba Wu suddenly emerged dressed in close-fitting martial attire. Riding the black horse she had brought from Northern Wei, she went straight to Yan Chi's side.
"Your Highness Yan Chi, I want to go find my brother too!"
Seated on his horse, Yan Chi glanced over indifferently at her words. "This journey requires marching through the night. Can you manage, Princess?"
Tuoba Wu lifted her chin. "Of course—"
Yan Chi looked at her expressionlessly for two moments, then nodded.
Tuoba Wu was startled—she hadn't expected Yan Chi to agree so easily. "You—"
Soon, Lin Zhang and Yan Che also arrived at the front. With that settled, the question became who Tuoba Wu would accompany. Lin Zhang looked at Yan Che, then at Yan Chi. "Which direction would Your Highness prefer to take?"
Tuoba Wu raised her chin. "I choose due north."
As soon as she said this, both Yan Che and Lin Zhang looked at Yan Chi. Tuoba Wu frowned—she had merely chosen a direction, never expecting it would be the one Yan Chi was leading. Her heart churned with mixed feelings, but on his side, Yan Chi decisively stated, "I don't agree."
Lin Zhang and Yan Che were taken aback. Yan Che even said, "Yan Chi..."
Tuoba Wu's eyes widened. "Why?! Do you think—"
Do you think I'm doing this just to follow you?!Yan Chi didn't even glance at Tuoba Wu. "I won't bring along dead weight."
Lin Zhang and the other two each took a direction. East and west both involved traveling across plains, while due north required crossing mountains and ridges. To ensure they found Tuoba Hong quickly, they needed to move fast through the mountains. Regardless of his motives, Yan Chi absolutely would not bring Tuoba Wu along.
The words "dead weight" made Tuoba Wu's eyes redden with fury!
"Calling me dead weight?! How about we settle this with a fight then?!"
Having just beaten Liu Yun, Tuoba Wu believed actions spoke louder than words—especially when Yan Chi's remark clearly looked down on her.
But Yan Chi gave her a cool glance. "The princess isn't worth my effort. Though you practice martial arts, the northern route is mountainous and treacherous. To find Crown Prince Tuoba sooner, it's best you don't cause trouble. Both eastern and western routes are plains. If you wish to contribute to your brother's search, choose one of those—"
Yan Chi's words were truly cutting, yet he spoke each syllable with such calm rationality that it didn't feel intentionally rude. The more reasonable he sounded, the more Tuoba Wu's anger choked in her throat.
"You—"
As Tuoba Wu tried to protest further, Yan Che interjected, "Yan Chi has a point. Your insistence on accompanying us is already risky. The mountain paths are slippery, with potential dangers like wild beasts and landslides—the chance of accidents is high. If something happens to you on the mountain, should we rescue you or search for Crown Prince Tuoba?"
Lin Zhang added his agreement, "Indeed, Your Highness should reconsider carefully."
Tuoba Wu pressed her lips tightly together. Though seething with indignation, her reason told her the three men were right. Gritting her teeth, she snapped harshly, "Fine! I'll take the western route!"
Yan Chi offered no opinion, his expression unchanged throughout. Hearing this, he walked toward his troops. Lin Zhang said, "Then Her Highness will travel with this general. It may rain heavily tonight—please prepare yourself mentally."
Tuoba Wu snorted lightly. "No need to remind me. I'm aware."
She wore a dark cape over close-sleeved martial attire, clearly prepared for the journey. With her bow, arrows, and sword at her side, she sat straight-backed in the saddle, cutting a rather dashing figure.
As they prepared to depart, Yan Huai, the Empress Dowager, and others came to see them off. The Empress Dowager said, "I had some pastries prepared for Yan Che and Yan Chi to take. Who knows how many days this journey will take."
She immediately ordered servants to deliver the pastries—Mammy Chen brought Yan Che's, while Baiying brought Yan Chi's.
Tuoba Wu recognized Baiying and noticed Yan Chi's gentle glance toward the Empress Dowager's direction when receiving the pastries, realizing they were likely prepared by Qin Guan. This stirred a bitter mix of sourness and resentment in her heart!
Yan Chi wasn't always cold and unfeeling—his tenderness and affection were all reserved for Qin Guan!
Gripping her reins tightly, Tuoba Wu spurred her horse forward the moment the departure signal was given, charging ahead at full speed. Yet just then, through the vast curtain of night rain, a horse's whinny suddenly rang out beyond the camp.
The distant neigh, muffled by the rain, was barely distinct—but in an instant, Tuoba Wu reined in her horse!She abruptly halted, immediately blocking those behind her. For a moment, the people at the rear had no choice but to stop as well. The vast, ready-to-depart procession was thus obstructed at the camp entrance—
"Princess, what has happened?!"
Lin Zhang called out loudly. Tuoba Wu said, "Listen!"
Everyone strained to listen as another horse neigh echoed. Their expressions shifted slightly, eyes fixed unwaveringly on the darkness ahead. Soon, a tall brown steed emerged into view. The moment it appeared, Tuoba Wu cried out in disbelief, "Crown Prince Brother!" and immediately whipped her horse forward. Lin Zhang and several others quickly followed. In no time, the horse drew near, yet its back was empty—it had returned alone.
Tuoba Wu's eyes instantly welled up. "This is Changfeng! This is Crown Prince Brother's horse! This is Crown Prince Brother's horse!"
Overwhelmed with emotion, her voice choked with sobs after these words. She turned to Lin Zhang and the others, continuing, "This is Crown Prince Brother's horse, I recognize it! I could never mistake it!"
At that moment, Tuoba Rui also stepped out from the back. "Yes! This is Changfeng! You can tell by the horse bell!"
Tuoba Rui was equally incredulous. "How could Changfeng return on its own? Where did it come from?!"
Thousands of men had ascended Weishan Mountain, searching for both Tuoba Hong and the horse, yet neither had been found. But now, the horse had returned by itself?!
Yan Chi and Yan Che also wanted to ask: Where had it come from?!
Yan Chi swiftly scanned the horse and noticed no major visible wounds. Meanwhile, Tuoba Wu was already saying, "Changfeng, Changfeng, where did you come from? Where is Crown Prince Brother?"
The intelligent horse seemed to understand Tuoba Wu's words. It grew agitated, spinning in place and repeatedly turning its head toward Weishan Mountain. Tuoba Wu urgently pleaded, "Changfeng, will you take me to find Crown Prince Brother? Changfeng! Will you take me to find Crown Prince Brother?"
Changfeng continued neighing but only circled in place.
Lin Zhang frowned slightly. "It must be very far away. It might remember the Path, but doesn't know how to lead us there. Plus, with two days of rain, the downpour must have disrupted its memory."
The horse kept spinning, blowing one snort after another in Tuoba Wu's face. She grew frantic. "What should we do?! Changfeng would never leave Brother! It must know where he is!"
This sudden development stranded the main force outside the camp. Upon receiving the news, Yan Huai immediately emerged with his men. Even the Empress Dowager and Zhao Shuhua came out to look, attended by servants holding umbrellas.
After two days of worry, the horse had returned—but where was Tuoba Hong?
"Your Majesty, this is Crown Prince Tuoba's horse. It returned on its own!"
Yan Huai had already seen it, his brow tightening with concern. "It must know where Crown Prince Tuoba is."
Lin Zhang said regretfully, "Unfortunately, we can't make it lead the way."
Yan Huai thought for a moment. "Summon the Stablemaster. See if he can get the horse to obey."
Just as Lin Zhang was about to issue the order, Tuoba Wu interjected, "You can't tame Northern Wei horses." She added anxiously, "And this time, we didn't bring any horse tamers with us."
As she spoke, Yan Chi had already dismounted. He slowly approached Changfeng, drawing closer and closer.Perhaps it was the approach of a stranger, or perhaps it was the imposing aura Yan Chi carried, but as he drew near, Changfeng instinctively sidestepped away. Yan Chi glanced at Tuoba Rui, who understood immediately and stepped forward to rein in Changfeng. Only then did the horse settle. Yan Chi approached, first stroking Changfeng’s back to soothe him before meticulously examining every part of the animal.
No obvious injuries were visible on Changfeng, though there were a few minor wounds. Yan Chi inspected carefully, and when he reached the tail, his brow suddenly furrowed. Changfeng’s tail was caked with mud; though much had been washed away by the rain, the hairs remained tangled and grimy. It was there, amidst the tail hairs, that Yan Chi spotted a trace of green tinged with silt.
While continuing to calm the horse, he gently plucked out the green fragment.
Turning, Yan Chi looked toward Qin Guan, who was supporting the Empress Dowager. "Ninth Miss, your assistance, please."
Yan Huai seemed to grasp Yan Chi’s intent and immediately turned to Qin Guan. "Ninth girl, go—"
Qin Guan nodded and hurried to Yan Chi’s side. She had understood from the moment Yan Chi dismounted to examine Changfeng that he was searching for clues to the horse’s trail. Now that he had found something, her help was needed.
The green fragment on Yan Chi’s fingertip was no larger than half a fingernail, clumped with mud and already darkened to a deep green. He extended his finger to Qin Guan. "See what this is!"
The others, standing at a distance, could barely make out what was in Yan Chi’s hand. Qin Guan took the green fragment, brought it to her nose to smell, and studied it closely for a moment before declaring, "This is a leaf of Euryale ferox."
The group perked up, stepping closer. Tuoba Wu dismounted and approached, frowning when she saw the tiny green speck in Qin Guan’s hand. "What is Euryale ferox? How does knowing this help find my brother?"
Her tone was sharp. At such a critical moment, Yan Chi still called upon Qin Guan—and his voice had softened when he spoke to her! How could they act so intimately in front of everyone?
They could indulge in their affections, but not at the expense of finding her eldest brother!
Tuoba Wu glared resentfully at Qin Guan, while the others also looked puzzled. Unflustered, Qin Guan explained calmly, "Euryale ferox is an annual aquatic herb whose fruit has medicinal uses. It thrives in water, often found in lakes, marshes, or ponds. To my knowledge, there are no lakes on Mount Wei, so it likely grows in swamps or small ponds. This fragment is small and has clung on despite the rain, suggesting the horse struggled through a patch of Euryale ferox, causing the leaves to adhere firmly."
"Horses are intuitive and can sense danger; they wouldn’t wander needlessly into deep water or marshes. So, there’s only one explanation: it picked up this leaf in connection with Heir Apparent Tuoba. To find him quickly, locating where this Euryale ferox grows could significantly increase our chances."
Facing Tuoba Wu’s challenge without a hint of panic, Qin Guan’s voice remained composed and assured in the cold rain. Though her demeanor lacked Tuoba Wu’s aggressive flair, the authority in her measured words effortlessly overshadowed the other. Standing within the group’s view, the contrast in their poise was instantly apparent.After listening to Qin Guan's words, Tuoba Wu's imposing manner deflated. Yan Huai immediately said, "So we should look for swamps and ponds?"
Lin Zhang also promptly added, "While there are no lakes in the Wei Mountains, there are mountain springs and gathered ponds. Swamps likely exist as well. Following this direction would significantly narrow our search range!"
Originally, the group was going to split into three directions for an aimless search, but unexpectedly, Changfeng returned. Though Changfeng came back, he couldn't lead the way, leaving everyone still clueless. However, Yan Chi discovered the gorgon fruit leaves, and Qin Guan provided this analysis, instantly making the direction to find Tuoba Hong extremely clear!
Qin Guan nodded slightly and turned back to examine Changfeng.
She hadn't intended to stand out at such a time, but since she had stepped forward, she ought to do her utmost.
Her gaze was sharp as she stared at Changfeng, and others also turned their attention to her. Lin Zhang wanted to speak, but Yan Huai raised his hand to stop him. While others might not know Qin Guan's capabilities, he and Yan Chi did, which was why Yan Huai had immediately approved when Yan Chi asked Qin Guan for help earlier. Watching Qin Guan's bamboo-straight back, Yan Huai felt full of admiration.
Tuoba Wu and Tuoba Rui exchanged glances, while the others looked even more puzzled.
At such a critical moment, Qin Guan, being the Little Medicine Immortal, naturally wasn't surprising for recognizing medicinal ingredients. But why was she still standing there examining the horse? Logically, this should be a place for men to discuss matters. Qin Guan, a delicate woman, seemed quite out of place. Despite this reasoning, when everyone looked over, they saw Qin Guan dressed elegantly, even plainly, yet it couldn't conceal her radiant, pearl-like glow. Her delicate features appeared even gentler and more ethereal in the drizzle, giving off an aura of an otherworldly fairy. Moreover, her posture was upright and her demeanor extraordinary. Though she was just a young girl of jade-like age, her presence not only surpassed Tuoba Wu's but even rivaled Yan Chi's! This was truly miraculous!
"That's the Ninth Miss of the Loyal Marquis Manor."
"The Little Medicine Immortal who cured the Empress Dowager?"
"That's her. I heard she's been by the Empress Dowager's side these days."
"So it's her. I've been seeing an extremely beautiful girl following the Empress Dowager lately but never knew who she was. If you ask me, even a princess's demeanor can't compare to hers..."
Whispers spread frequently among the soldiers, passing from ten to a hundred, until even those at the very back knew what was happening at the front. Just as everyone was praising Qin Guan, she suddenly shook her head.
"No, it's not a pond or a swamp."
Yan Huai raised an eyebrow, "How so?!"
Qin Guan focused her gaze and said, "Most of the wounds on Changfeng's body are long and thin, mainly on the horse's sides, as if scratched by sharp stones. Also, there are many small cuts on his hooves. Ordinary stones couldn't cause such injuries. It must be in a place with plenty of slate. Looking at the location of the wounds, he likely passed through a very narrow, cramped place, like a narrow Path, with protruding, angular slate on both sides."
"Water, where gorgon fruit can grow, like a narrow Path, and with slate..."
Qin Guan's eyes sharpened, "It should be in a mountain stream. Your Majesty, we should search in the mountain streams!"From a swamp or pond, it suddenly turned into a mountain stream. Although the destination had similarly narrowed, Tuoba Wu disliked this feeling. In such a grand occasion where all the masters were present, at such a critical moment, it seemed as though Qin Guan was taking the lead, and everyone was following her line of thought...
"Some of these wounds could also be caused by sharp bushes, or perhaps they were scraped against tree trunks?"
Tuoba Wu frowned tightly, posing what she believed to be a sharp question.
Upon hearing this, Qin Guan calmly looked at Tuoba Wu. "Bushes can injure people, but they cannot harm horses with thick hides. The wounds on Changfeng are slender, narrow, and deep. Due to being washed by rainwater, the flesh is now curled outward. As for scrapes, the edges on both sides would never be so neat. If you don’t believe me, Princess, you can try making a horizontal cut on Changfeng with a knife."
Just as Tuoba Wu was about to speak again, Lin Zhang interjected, "Princess, do not doubt any further. Ninth Miss is right—ordinary stones cannot harm horses; only sharp-edged slate can do this. Since you have set the goal for us, we no longer need to search in all directions. Mount Wei has mountain springs, and where there are mountain springs, there are mountain streams. It suddenly occurred to me that we have searched many places but have not looked for those hidden mountain streams. If the Crown Prince fell into a mountain stream, we would not find him just by traversing the mountains."
Mountain streams are mostly deep, elongated trenches. If someone fell into one and the area above was obscured by branches and bushes, it would indeed be difficult to detect any trace of a person. Hearing Lin Zhang’s words, everyone felt that Qin Guan’s reasoning was truly sound!
Yan Huai decisively declared, "Very well, in that case, since you are familiar with the terrain, immediately take people to search all possible locations with mountain streams. Do not overlook a single inch! Go now—"
With the situation drastically changed, the personnel also needed to be reassigned. Lin Zhang felt that bringing too many people up the mountain at night would be inconvenient, so he selected only five hundred. Yan Che and Yan Chi also joined the search. Seeing that the hope of finding Tuoba Hong had increased, Tuoba Wu and Tuoba Rui requested to accompany them as well. Yan Huai, moved by their urgency to save their brother, hesitated for a moment before granting permission. Two incense sticks’ time later, the main force truly set out. Tuoba Wu’s mount was replaced with Changfeng, hoping that the horse could be of assistance when closer to the incident site.
Watching another fiery torch-lit procession depart, Yan Huai turned to Qin Guan. "Ninth girl, if the Crown Prince Tuoba is truly found this time, you will have rendered yet another great service!"
Qin Guan pursed her lips slightly. "Barring any surprises, Crown Prince Tuoba will surely be found tonight!"
Seeing Qin Guan so confident, Yan Huai laughed heartily. "I am truly grateful that the Empress Dowager brought you along this time. You, little girl, are truly remarkable. Your examination of the horse was excellent."
Yan Huai’s tone was profound. Qin Guan lowered her eyes, appearing very reserved, while others only sensed Yan Huai’s great admiration for her, unaware of the underlying subtleties.
As the main force departed, the group returned to the camp once more.
Previously, without a clear direction, everyone had waited anxiously. Now, after Qin Guan’s investigation and analysis, she had firmly identified the location of Tuoba Hong’s accident. Was Qin Guan’s reasoning sound? Would they successfully find Tuoba Hong?
Not only Yan Huai but everyone else harbored this doubt in their hearts.
Though they returned to their respective camps, tonight was destined to be another sleepless night.The Empress Dowager held Yan Sui's hand and asked with a smile, "Do you believe what the Qin family's Ninth Sister said is correct?"
Though Qin Guan naturally dared not presume to be Yan Sui's elder sister, after several days the two had grown quite close, so the Empress Dowager simply referred to them as siblings. Yan Sui glanced at Qin Guan and nodded.
The Empress Dowager then said, "Ninth girl, last time we made a bet, you lost to me. This time, if what you said proves true, I shall grant you a great reward—"
Qin Guan replied modestly, "I merely offered a small effort."
The Empress Dowager shook her head, "Certainly not. Though you only spoke a few words, firstly, this matter could not be accomplished by others, and secondly, it concerns the diplomatic relations between Great Zhou and Northern Wei. You took a risk."
Qin Guan understood that if she pointed in a direction but no one was found, it would waste time and military resources. Given Tuoba Wu's temperament, he would likely hold her accountable.
Hearing this, even the Empress Dowager found it hard to sleep, while Yan Sui, being young and energetic, kept them all awake. Looking outside, they saw most tents still lit.
After waiting over three hours, nearing mao hour (5-7 AM), a fast horse galloped into the camp!
As it reached the main tent, the messenger soldier shouted, "The Northern Wei Crown Prince has been found! The Northern Wei Crown Prince has been found!"
This shout roused everyone in the entire camp!
Inside the main tent, Qin Guan, who had been somewhat drowsy, curled her lips into a faint smile.
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