Coroner's Diary

"The Empress wants the Fifth Princess to marry into Northern Wei?"

Qin Guan's astonishment was evident. Tuoba Wu laughed upon hearing this, "Indeed! You didn't expect it either, did you? Neither my Crown Prince brother nor I saw this coming. We were supposed to have left days ago, but this matter delayed us for several days."

Seeing it was inappropriate to converse outside, Qin Guan hurriedly said, "Princess, please come inside to talk."

Tuoba Wu smiled and handed her horse to the marquis' guards before entering the residence with Qin Guan.

As soon as she stepped inside, Tuoba Wu began examining the marquis' estate and asked, "I haven't seen you at the palace these days. What happened?"

Qin Guan replied, "There have been several cases in the city. I've been assisting the magistrate's office."

Tuoba Wu looked at Qin Guan with admiration, "I never thought you'd actually do this—"

Qin Guan smiled, "Of course. When I asked the Emperor for that honorary title, it wasn't an empty request."

Tuoba Wu gazed at Qin Guan and asked, "What's the new case like? Is it difficult?"

Qin Guan sighed, "The murderer is a religious follower who has strayed onto an evil path. In my opinion, they're quite deranged. There aren't any clear leads yet—"

"Religious? Buddhist?"

Tuoba Wu seemed quite interested in the case. Qin Guan shook her head, "Princess, have you heard of the Moon Worship Sect?"

At this, Tuoba Wu paused mid-step, "It's actually the Moon Worship Sect?!"

Qin Guan was surprised, "You know of it?"

"Having traveled extensively in Northern Wei, I'm naturally familiar with the Moon Worship Sect. Some say it's the next Buddhism, while others claim it's merely a ragtag group formed to oppose both Buddhism and Taoism. When I was in Northern Wei's border cities, I once encountered a Moon Worship Sect follower who went mad. This person, hoping to attain enlightenment and ascend to heaven, set fire to his own home—with his wife, children, and elderly mother inside. The blaze killed the entire family. His neighbors reported hearing him loudly reciting the sect's scriptures as he died. Tell me, if a religion can drive someone to such extremes, how is it different from a cult?"

Qin Guan listened with growing horror. Compared to the current case's murderer, who used human sacrifices to fulfill desires, this person who burned his own family seemed even more twisted—

"Is the Moon Worship Sect also prevalent in Northern Wei?"

Qin Guan asked thoughtfully. Tuoba Wu shook her head, "The Northern Wei royal family only believes in their own totems, not religions. Even Buddhism and Taoism hold little influence there. Noble families in Northern Wei each have their own totems—only the common folk follow Buddhism or Taoism. As for the Moon Worship Sect, I heard it came from the west and only has followers in the southwestern border cities of Northern Wei."

Qin Guan nodded, "Although this sect has some good aspects, many of its adherents practice dark arts."

As they spoke, Qin Guan led Tuoba Wu toward the main courtyard. Since it was Tuoba Wu's first visit, she naturally had to pay respects to Hu Shi. Hu Shi, surprised by the princess's arrival, felt immensely honored and ordered a lavish reception. However, Tuoba Wu explained she had only come to catch up with Qin Guan. After a brief stay in the main courtyard, they proceeded to Pine Breeze Courtyard.

Hu Shi was somewhat disappointed, feeling increasingly that Qin Guan had a knack for attracting noble connections!

In Pine Breeze Courtyard, Qin Guan continued questioning Tuoba Wu about the Moon Worship Sect. Tuoba Wu said, "Logically, this sect shouldn't be causing trouble in Great Zhou. Isn't Buddhism flourishing here?"Qin Guan gave a bitter smile. "Buddha cannot truly protect all living beings. What cannot be obtained from Buddha leads some to turn to other sects. Besides, it's possible someone in the capital has been to the western regions. The culprit this time is deeply hidden—if they were openly proselytizing, it would actually help our investigation."

Tuoba Wu sighed helplessly. "I never expected the Moon Worship Sect's evil arts would cause trouble in Great Zhou as well."

With another wry smile, Qin Guan hurriedly asked, "Did Your Highness come today only to bid farewell? How is His Highness the Crown Prince's health?"

Tuoba Wu replied, "I came precisely regarding my royal brother's condition. I recall you mentioning he might suffer long-term health complications. Although Northern Wei has renowned physicians, you were the one who saved his life, so I feel more assured consulting you."

Qin Guan's expression turned slightly troubled. "There will likely be lasting effects, but these vary by individual. It's difficult to say for certain now." After a moment's thought, she added, "Let me prepare some restorative prescriptions for you to take along. I'll specify the conditions for each formula's use—you can consult Northern Wei's physicians later to decide which to employ."

Tuoba Wu brightened immediately. "I knew you'd help! Having your prescriptions is the best solution possible!"

Qin Guan rose to prepare the formulas, spending the time it takes two incense sticks to burn completing three prescriptions. Examining them one by one, Tuoba Wu remarked regretfully, "What a pity. You should know my royal brother originally wanted you to come to Northern Wei."

Qin Guan stared blankly, momentarily confused by Tuoba Wu's meaning. The princess chuckled, "But I understand—you wouldn't wish to become my sister-in-law."

Startled, Qin Guan finally comprehended the implication and laughed incredulously. "Given my status, how could I possibly become Your Highness' imperial sister-in-law?"

"Why not?" Tuoba Wu maintained seriousness. "You're now an officially enfeoffed commandery princess, and you saved my royal brother. I can tell he holds you in high esteem."

Qin Guan responded with a bitter smile. Waving her hand, Tuoba Wu assured her, "Don't worry, I've already told my royal brother you won't be going to Northern Wei."

Then, tentatively, the princess probed, "Speaking of which, why have you and he made no progress?"

Knowing what Tuoba Wu referred to, Qin Guan found herself at a loss. "The time isn't right yet."

Shaking her head, Tuoba Wu warned, "If you don't act soon, he'll probably return to the Northwest Frontier Army."

Qin Guan frowned. These past days, Yan Chi had been occupied with military provisions for the Northwest Frontier Army while she assisted the magistrate's office. They'd scarcely seen each other, and she remained unaware of the provisions matter's progress. Why would Tuoba Wu say this?

"Haven't you heard? There's been a corruption case involving the Northwest Frontier Army's provisions. The Great Zhou emperor declared that not only have the northwestern transport commissioners failed, but the Northwest Frontier Army itself has problems. This time, they're investigating both the commissioners and the army."

Qin Guan's heart sank. Why would the emperor investigate the Northwest Frontier Army without apparent cause? While most northwestern transport commissioners faced execution or dismissal, what purpose did scrutinizing the army serve now? Unease stirred within her—she needed to find a way to see Yan Chi.

Noting her expression, Tuoba Wu sighed. "You must realize—if they investigate the Northwest Frontier Army, Yan Chi will certainly need to return personally. Who knows what might happen if someone else goes..."

Qin Guan had indeed considered this. Growing restless, she said, "When does Your Highness return to the palace? I should pay my respects to Her Majesty the Empress Dowager..."Tuoba Wu laughed heartily, "So you really have feelings for her! I came here as your guest, yet you're trying to drive me away as soon as this topic comes up!"

Qin Guan felt somewhat embarrassed. Tuoba Wu was only joking, and after exchanging a few more words with Qin Guan, she left together with him to head toward the palace. Tuoba Wu rode out on her imperial horse, keeping pace beside Qin Guan's carriage, making casual conversation. Once they entered the palace, Tuoba Wu accompanied Qin Guan all the way to the Longevity and Health Palace.

Feeling stifled in the palace, Tuoba Wu would often wander over to the Longevity and Health Palace and had gradually become more familiar with the Empress Dowager.

The palace maid at the Longevity and Health Palace brightened upon seeing Qin Guan, but her expression shifted slightly when she noticed Tuoba Wu accompanying him. "Greetings, Princess, and greetings to Your Highness the Princess. Please wait a moment. This servant will go and announce your arrival."

Tuoba Wu raised an eyebrow, and Qin Guan also found it strange. In the past, when she visited, the palace maid would directly escort her inside, only announcing her arrival once they reached the main hall. Why were they being asked to wait now?

The palace maid soon returned. "Your Highness the Princess, Princess, please come in—"

Tuoba Wu and Qin Guan were slightly puzzled. When they met the Empress Dowager, they saw Yan Zhen sitting beside her, her eyes red and swollen.

Seeing that Yan Zhen seemed to have just been crying, Tuoba Wu and Qin Guan understood. Yan Zhen must have been here earlier, and their sudden arrival had been inconvenient. But why had Yan Zhen come to the Empress Dowager to cry?

"It's been quite some time since you last visited the palace. Have you been busy helping out again?"

The Empress Dowager held Qin Guan's hand as she spoke. Yan Zhen sat to the side, her eyes fixed angrily on Tuoba Wu.

Tuoba Wu, with her unruly nature, felt somewhat helpless under Yan Zhen's glare. How had she managed to offend this princess?

The Empress Dowager chatted with Qin Guan for a long while and tried to tease Yan Zhen a few times, but Yan Zhen remained listless, clearly unwilling to stay any longer. Though she seemed reluctant to listen to Tuoba Wu and Qin Guan's conversation, she made no move to leave. It was only when Qin Guan and Tuoba Wu took their leave that Yan Zhen stood up to excuse herself. The Empress Dowager watched Yan Zhen with a sigh but said nothing more, allowing the three to depart.

Once outside the Longevity and Health Palace, Yan Zhen immediately called out sharply, "Tuoba Wu!"

Tuoba Wu turned around with a smile. "What instructions does Your Highness the Princess have?"

Yan Zhen stomped over to Tuoba Wu, fuming. "Go back and tell Tuoba Hong that I will not marry into Northern Wei! He should give up on this idea! My previous concern for him was only due to my mother's orders. He shouldn't think I have any tender feelings for him! I absolutely, absolutely will not marry him—"

Yan Zhen spoke with unwavering determination, her chin held high, though tears welled in her eyes. Tuoba Wu's smile faded slightly. She hadn't expected Yan Zhen's strange behavior to be because of this.

Tuoba Wu pressed her lips together. "Why doesn't Your Highness tell Her Majesty the Empress? It was the Empress who proposed this marriage."

Yan Zhen hesitated, her face growing even paler. "I'm telling you this so you can inform Tuoba Hong. He'd better abandon any thought of marrying me! There are so many fine young women in Great Zhou—why must he seek to marry me?! If you force me, I'm capable of anything!"

Yan Zhen spoke one sentence after another, but as a princess of a nation, her behavior was truly improper. Tuoba Wu felt a pang of discomfort watching Yan Zhen like this. Without another word, Yan Zhen snorted lightly and left with her attendants.

After she had gone, Tuoba Wu turned to Qin Guan and said, "Was I like this before too?"Qin Guan's eyes shifted slightly, "No less impressive—"

Tuoba Wu gave a bitter smile, "Then I truly am..." As he spoke, his eyes narrowed, and his smile turned cold. "The Empress clearly agreed, so why is Yan Zhen resisting so fiercely? She obviously doesn't dare confront the Empress directly, so she's come to me instead!"

Qin Guan felt a mix of emotions. In her past impressions, the Empress had always doted on Yan Zhen, and even after numerous visits to the palace, this perception had never changed. Given that, why would the Empress insist on marrying Yan Zhen off to a distant land against her will?!

"If this matter is to end harmoniously, I'm afraid we must seek the Empress's counsel."

For a marriage alliance between two nations, whether for the sake of the couple or for diplomatic relations, the wedding should proceed smoothly. But now, with Yan Zhen unwilling, the Northern Wei would be displeased, and Yan Zhen would suffer if she married there.

Tuoba Wu frowned, "We are set to leave in three days, and now this complication arises!"

The matter of the princess's marriage was beyond Qin Guan's influence, so she could only offer Tuoba Wu a few words of comfort. Seeing that it was getting late, Qin Guan did not linger in the palace. Exiting through Zhenghua Gate, she headed straight for the Ministry of Justice. Her purpose in entering the palace today had been for Yan Chi, and since the Empress Dowager had acted normally, it seemed the issues within the Northwest Frontier Army had not yet escalated.

Arriving at the Ministry of Justice, the clerk at the entrance recognized Qin Guan immediately. Upon hearing she was there to see Yan Chi, he regretfully said, "The Crown Prince has gone to the Ministry of War. He might be there, in the palace, or at the Court of Judicial Review."

Qin Guan frowned, "Why would he go to the Court of Judicial Review?"

The clerk sighed, "The corruption case involving the Northwest Frontier Army's military provisions is highly significant. The Court of Judicial Review has supervisory authority, so they must participate in the joint hearing. If you wish to wait for His Highness, please come inside—"

Qin Guan shook her head, "I'm not in a hurry. I came regarding a case in the capital. When the Crown Prince returns, simply inform him that I stopped by."

The clerk promptly agreed, and Qin Guan took her carriage back to the marquis manor.

That night, Qin Guan lay in bed but could not fall asleep. The importance of the Northwest Frontier Army to Prince Rui was equal to its importance to Yan Chi. Now that problems had arisen within the army, she wondered what the cause might be.

In the darkness, Qin Guan stared vaguely at the canopy above, her mind restless and unsettled. Suddenly, a soft sound came from outside the rear window. Startled, she quickly sat up. The next moment, another light tap echoed from the window. Her eyes brightened, and she hurried out of bed, not even bothering to put on shoes as she rushed to the window. Pushing it open, she saw Yan Chi standing under the clear moonlight, his gaze gentle despite the chill he carried.

"Why have you come like this?"

Qin Guan's heart raced—this wasn't Qin Manor! This was Loyal Marquis Manor!

Yan Chi braced himself on the windowsill and leaped inside. The moment he saw Qin Guan barefoot, he frowned, scooped her up into his arms, and scolded, "How could you step on the ground without shoes?!"

Carrying her swiftly to the bed, he added, "This is the first time you've come to the ministry looking for me. How could I not come?"

Clutching his lapel, Qin Guan whispered, "I heard the Emperor is investigating the Northwest Frontier Army, and seeing you busier than ever, I grew worried."Yan Chi placed Qin Guan on the bed, "I know why you went..." He paused briefly, gazing into Qin Guan's eyes as he said, "Someone is targeting the Northwest Frontier Army."

Qin Guan's heart skipped a beat, "Who? Who wants to harm the Northwest Frontier Army?"

Yan Chi pulled the quilt over Qin Guan and sat beside her, holding her in a half-embrace. After a moment of silence, he finally said, "It could be the Crown Prince, it could be Prince Cheng, or it could be... the Emperor."