Coroner's Diary

In the faint light of dawn, Qin Guan opened her eyes, finally feeling somewhat at ease.

Although Ning Buyi had taken his own life, the case was ultimately solved, sparing her the worry of further deaths over time.

Qin Guan lingered lazily for a moment longer before rising. After breakfast, she headed straight to the prefectural office with Baiying, her purpose today being to see Zhang Daoshi.

At the office, Zheng Baishi had gone to the imperial court to present the case's conclusion. Only Zhan Yang remained in the yamen. Though the case was closed, the official documents required meticulous detail. Zheng Baishi's visit to the palace was merely to announce that the case had been resolved.

Zhan Yang was not skilled at drafting documents. Holding a brush, his brow furrowed into deep creases.

Seeing Qin Guan arrive, Zhan Yang set down his brush and bowed in greeting. Qin Guan smiled lightly, "Zhan Butou, may I ask where Zhang Daoshi is?"

Zhan Yang pointed toward the direction of the duty rooms in the rear courtyard, "He should still be in his quarters."

Qin Guan nodded and glanced at the documents on the desk. "Yesterday, I heard you were going to Phoenix Perch Tower. Did you learn anything?"

Zhan Butou nodded, "I went first thing in the morning. Qingmei, who was close to Ning Buyi, said that when he visited her, he enjoyed listening to her stories about the city's patrons. However, he never deliberately probed for information. Qingmei considered him a confidant and, feeling indignant about the misdeeds of the wealthy, shared these stories as examples of wickedness with Ning Buyi."

Qin Guan sighed, "Ning Buyi came to the capital alone and opened the Ink-Stained Painting House. Just as his fame was rising, he committed such acts. He had no relatives or friends in the capital, not even a trusted servant..."Zhan Yang frowned, 'Does the princess feel this is particularly strange?""

Qin Guan nodded, "Yes, something about it doesn't sit right."

Every person lives with some pursuit—whether seeking fame and fortune or embracing a simple life. Ning Buyi loved painting and, in his final moments, transferred ownership of his painting house, seemingly wishing to preserve it. Judging by his usual conduct, he showed no signs of extreme stubbornness or cruelty. Though such cunning evildoers are adept at concealment, Qin Guan recalled Ning Buyi's behavior from the previous night and found it utterly perplexing. Drifting into the capital alone, with no attachments, why would he set up an altar?

Qin Guan sighed, "The Crown Prince has sent people to Huzhou to investigate Ning Buyi. Once we receive news from there, we may understand the cause and effect. Since he died upon arriving in the capital, many details of the case remain unclear. It's a pity."

Zhan Yang smiled wryly, "Indeed, I don't even know where to start with these documents."

Qin Guan could offer no help in this matter. After exchanging a few more words, she headed toward Zhang Daoshi's duty room.

It was already summer. When Qin Guan entered the courtyard, Zhang Daoshi was sitting under the eaves, enjoying the cool. The sun had risen to its zenith, and the heat was sweltering. Seeing Qin Guan approach, Zhang Daoshi immediately stood up.

"Greetings, Princess—"

Zhang Daoshi had been busy all day yesterday and only managed to identify the third location by nightfall. With the case resolved last night, he had likely rested well, and his complexion appeared much improved.

Qin Guan smiled slightly, "With the case solved, Zhang Daoshi, you are finally cleared of suspicion."Upon hearing this, Zhang Dongxuan laughed heartily, "Indeed. Although I treated this matter as cultivation, the taste of being wronged is truly unpleasant. Now that the truth has finally come to light, I can consider myself having endured through it."

Qin Guan then asked, "What are your plans after this, Daoist Priest?"

Zhang Dongxuan looked at Qin Guan and smiled faintly, "I still remember telling the Princess earlier that once this matter is resolved, I would travel around. Having been confined in that prison these past years, this old man's bones have grown rusty."

Qin Guan continued, "And after traveling around?"

Zhang Dongxuan raised his eyes to gaze at the sky, "This old man hasn't thought that far yet. But the world is vast, and there will always be a place for this old man." Then he looked at Qin Guan, "Does the Princess have any suggestions?"

Qin Guan smiled, "I wonder if the Daoist Priest has any interest in the imperial court?"

As if knowing what Qin Guan was going to say, Zhang Dongxuan's eyes shifted, "Is the Princess speaking for yourself, or for someone else?"

Zhang Dongxuan was no ordinary person, and Qin Guan naturally understood that he had grasped her meaning. With an elegant smile, she said, "Certainly not for myself. It's just that I don't want to waste the Daoist Priest's talents. However, since the Daoist Priest enjoys wandering freely, I definitely won't force you. But if one day you wish to return to the worldly hustle and bustle, please come find me."

Zhang Dongxuan quickly cupped his hands respectfully, "The Princess has saved this old man's life. Regardless of what this old man wants, if the Princess has any instructions, this old man will certainly comply."

Qin Guan waved her hand, "You flatter me, Daoist Priest. It was merely a small effort before. As I said earlier, if you ever have any thoughts, please be sure to tell me."

Zhang Dongxuan nodded solemnly in agreement. Only then did Qin Guan turn to leave. After taking two steps, Zhang Dongxuan said, "Princess, please wait."

Qin Guan turned back. Zhang Dongxuan continued, "The matters that worry the Princess will certainly be resolved. The Princess is surrounded by many noble people. The Crown Prince is an excellent choice." Then he smiled again, "This the Princess surely sees clearly. However, the Crown Prince might face a calamity soon. Given the Princess's close relationship with him, be sure to remind him."

Qin Guan's expression changed slightly. Zhang Dongxuan's brief words were truly profound. "Daoist Priest, what do you mean..."

But Zhang Dongxuan smiled mysteriously, "Words cannot be fully spoken. The Princess need only remember this old man's words." As he spoke, he lifted his gaze to the blazing sun in the sky, "Although the capital is a den of tigers and wolves, for the Crown Prince, it would be best if he doesn't leave this place for the next half year. Wait until the calamity passes before considering departure."

Qin Guan was full of questions, but Zhang Dongxuan would certainly not explain every word thoroughly.

Taking a deep breath, Qin Guan nodded, "Thank you, Daoist Priest. I will remember."

Zhang Dongxuan nodded and said no more. Qin Guan turned and left, her steps noticeably heavier than when she had arrived.

Had Zhang Dongxuan discerned the relationship between her and Yan Chi? Recently, the case of the Northwest Frontier Army's military provisions had been weighing heavily on Yan Chi. Yan Chi had said that if no more news came from the northwest, he would personally go there. But Zhang Dongxuan said that for the next half year, he shouldn't leave the capital. Zhang Dongxuan couldn't know about the Northwest Frontier Army provisions matter, and he had no reason to deceive her.

Qin Guan's heart sank further. This meant that Yan Chi couldn't leave the capital for half a year, and his calamity was likely to occur after leaving the capital—Yan Chi's temperament was resolute and uncompromising, and since this matter concerned the Northwest Frontier Army, he would never stand idly by. If things truly reached that point, how could she persuade Yan Chi?

For the sake of her own safety, should she abandon the Northwest Frontier Army?

Qin Guan shook her head inwardly. Yan Chi was incapable of such a thing, and she could never utter such words.

Returning to the front hall, despite the sweltering heat, Qin Guan felt a cold sweat break out on her back. Zhan Yang noticed her troubled expression and asked, "What's wrong, County Princess? What did Zhang Daoshi say?"

Qin Guan steadied herself. The situation hadn't yet unfolded—she couldn't let her mind become disordered.

"It's nothing. I asked Zhang Daoshi about his plans, and he said he intends to travel and wander for a while."

Zhan Yang nodded. "These years have been unfair to him. I wonder if the authorities can offer him some compensation. We'll have to wait for the magistrate to return from the palace before discussing this further."

Qin Guan hummed in agreement and was about to say more when a constable entered from outside.

"Butou, there's a young lady outside who says she's come to claim Ning Buyi's remains."

Hearing this, Qin Guan felt a sudden clarity in her heart and quickly said, "Please, invite her in at once!"

Zhan Butou looked at Qin Guan with suspicion, so she explained, "I'm not sure if it's the person I'm thinking of, but I once saw Ning Buyi speaking with a young lady at the painting gallery. She is the daughter of his martial uncle and was once betrothed to him verbally. However, after his family fell into decline, her parents arranged for her to marry someone else. When I saw them, Ning Buyi was rejecting her."

Zhan Yang thought for a moment. "I see. Last time he disguised himself as a victim, he used this very incident."

Qin Guan nodded. Coincidentally, she had witnessed that scene and had even served as a witness for Ning Buyi.

Soon, the young lady was escorted into the yamen. Qin Guan saw that it was indeed the same young woman she had seen that day. Led by the constable, her eyes were red-rimmed, and she appeared somewhat haggard.

Upon entering and seeing Qin Guan, she paused briefly, clearly remembering her.

"This is Yongci County Princess, and this is our Butou, Zhan Yang."

The young lady looked startled, seemingly surprised by Qin Guan's noble status, and hurriedly bowed. "Yu Fangze pays her respects to the County Princess and to Butou—"

Qin Guan stepped forward. "There's no need for formalities, Miss Yu. I remember you."

Yu Fangze smiled bitterly. "County Princess, this humble girl remembers you as well."

Recalling that day, Yu Fangze's eyes reddened again. Qin Guan approached and took her hand, guiding her to sit. "Have you come to claim Young Master Ning's remains? Then you must already know what happened to him, right?"

Tears instantly fell from Yu Fangze's eyes. "County Princess, Butou, I don't believe he could do such a thing. It definitely wasn't him. Could the authorities have made a mistake somewhere?"

Qin Guan and Zhan Yang exchanged a glance. Though Zhan Yang's eyes held disagreement, facing the tearful Yu Fangze, he couldn't bring himself to speak harshly. Qin Guan sidestepped the question for now. "That day, I heard Young Master Ning mention you. He said the two of you grew up together, like childhood sweethearts?"Yu Fangze was somewhat agitated. In her impression, Ning Buyi naturally couldn't be a villain. If Qin Guan tried to argue these points with her, it would be futile. Since Qin Guan didn't answer her question, Yu Fangze, in her sorrowful state, was led to a new topic instead. With tears in her eyes, she nodded, "Yes, our families have been close for generations. His father originally served as the Surveillance Vice Commissioner in the Huguang Provincial Administration Commission's waterway office. His father was originally from Huzhou, and after achieving success in the imperial examinations, he returned to his hometown to serve—a truly glorious achievement for the family."

Qin Guan hadn't expected Yu Fangze to come. Hearing her speak of this, Qin Guan knew this was the best opportunity to inquire about Ning Buyi's background. "But I heard from Young Master Ning that his family later encountered some misfortune."

At the mention of this, Yu Fangze's tears fell again. "It was eight years ago, during the summer. Huzhou experienced continuous heavy rainfall, and both the Min River and Qin River within the prefecture flooded, eventually leading to a major disaster. The Provincial Administration Commission and the Huzhou Prefectural Government worked together on relief efforts, but somehow a corruption case emerged. In the end, the Huzhou Prefect and Uncle Ning were singled out and convicted—both were sentenced to decapitation. When it happened, he was still traveling for his studies. By the time he returned, Uncle Ning's remains were already cold. Aunt Ning fell gravely ill because of this and passed away not long after."

"Originally, their branch was the pride of the Ning clan, but after this incident, the family members feared implication and drove the widow and orphan out. His uncles and other relatives also turned their backs on them. He believed his uncle was wrongly accused and repeatedly appealed to the prefectural government, even going to the Governor's office, but all to no avail. Moreover, as the descendant of a convicted official, he could no longer sit for the imperial examinations. After his mother passed away, in his anger, he left Huzhou. I don't know where he went after that. It wasn't until three years ago that I heard he had opened a painting studio in the capital. I wrote him many letters during this time, but never received any replies. Earlier this year, I came to the capital and finally saw him again. Counting the years, it had been seven since we last met. Back then, our fathers had arranged a marriage agreement between us when we were children, and I had always regarded him as my future husband. But after that incident..."

Yu Fangze wept silently. Qin Guan listened with a heavy heart. "After such a tragedy, your parents naturally want you to marry into a good family. It's a pity about your deep affection."

Yu Fangze shook her head with a bitter smile. "When I learned of his whereabouts three years ago, I thought he would return to Huzhou, but he didn't. When I came to the capital earlier this year, I still couldn't let go, which is why I sought him out several times. He did it for my sake... My parents have now arranged another marriage for me. I shouldn't... but I don't believe he is the kind of person people say he is. And now that he's alone in this world, if he were to pass away, he might not even have a proper grave. That's why I want to give him a proper burial."

Ning Buyi had committed a serious crime. For those condemned to death, there naturally wouldn't be a decent end—the mass graves outside the city would be their final resting place. However, since Yu Fangze had come to claim the body, some leniency could be shown.Seeing that neither Qin Guan nor Zhan Yang spoke, Yu Fangze continued, "Lady Jun, Zhan Butou, did he really kill someone? How could that be? Since his youth, he loved painting and devoted all his heart to it. When his uncle urged him to become a supervisor student earlier, he refused. He was never arrogant and unruly like other officials' children. In daily life, he couldn't even bear to step on an ant..."

The more Yu Fangze spoke, the more tears fell. Qin Guan and Zhan Yang exchanged a glance, unsure how to console her.

The Ning Buyi of the past might truly have been as good as Yu Fangze described, but after the Ning family's incident, Yu Fangze hadn't seen Ning Buyi for seven years. Seven years—enough time for a person's temperament to change completely.

"Miss Yu, please don't grieve. This case hasn't been fully closed yet. According to protocol, the criminal's remains cannot be returned to the family. However... since he is already dead, if you are sincere, you could wait for the Prefect to return and discuss it with him."

As an unmarried woman, Yu Fangze's willingness to come and claim Ning Buyi's remains showed her deep affection and loyalty toward him. Qin Guan couldn't bear to refuse and looked at Zhan Yang, who nodded and said, "Lord Zheng should be back soon."

Yu Fangze grasped Qin Guan's hand. "Lady Jun, did he really kill someone?"

Yu Fangze seemed determined to get an answer. Qin Guan sighed and had no choice but to reply, "Yes, he confessed with his own words."

Yu Fangze's face turned pale, and she pressed her lips tightly together.

Qin Guan patted her shoulder gently. "He died from poisoning last night, which suggests he took his own life out of guilt. Before he died, he confessed to his crimes. However, with his passing, many details remain unknown to us. Do you know if he had any trustworthy friends or acquaintances in the capital?"

Yu Fangze shook her head, tears streaming down. "I only came to the capital at the beginning of the year. Each time I saw him, it was only for a short while. I don't know who his friends were. I only know that he opened this painting studio about six years ago. Beyond that, I have no way of knowing."

Qin Guan nodded, took out a handkerchief, and handed it to Yu Fangze. Yu Fangze accepted it and wiped her tears, only then realizing she had been somewhat impolite. Of course, Qin Guan and Zhan Yang didn't blame her. Qin Guan had originally intended to leave, but seeing Yu Fangze in such a state, she decided to stay for a while longer, lest Yu Fangze feel uncomfortable surrounded only by men in the yamen.

Not long after, Zheng Baishi returned from the palace. With the case solved, the emperor had set aside his earlier anger and even praised Zheng Baishi a few words. Thus, Zheng Baishi was in high spirits. Seeing Yu Fangze tearfully pleading to take back Ning Buyi's remains, he didn't make things difficult and granted her request with a few words. While Ning Buyi's connections still needed to be investigated, his remains were merely a shell. With death, all is extinguished like a lamp—the yamen wouldn't cling to them. Even if they were discarded in a mass burial ground, it would only be a formality.

Having achieved her wish, Yu Fangze repeatedly thanked Qin Guan before following the yamen officers to the Mortuary Temple.

Watching Yu Fangze leave, Qin Guan sighed. Ning Buyi wasn't entirely alone; at least Yu Fangze's devotion to him was truly admirable.

Leaving the prefectural yamen, Qin Guan headed directly to Marquis Anyang Manor.

Yue Ning had returned so late last night, and with Wei Qizhi injured, she didn't know how his injuries were.

With these thoughts in mind, Qin Guan arrived at Marquis Anyang Manor only to find that Wei Qizhi was actually there!

In the garden, Yue Ning spotted Qin Guan and said, "You've come at the perfect time. He brought the painting."Qin Guan was slightly surprised to see Wu Shu standing nearby holding several scrolls of paintings. Wei Qizhi said, "I've purchased both paintings that caught Your Ladyship's eye earlier. Would you care to examine them?"

Qin Guan was quite taken aback, as she had originally intended to buy them herself. "How much do these two paintings cost in total?"

Wei Qizhi waved his hand dismissively. "This is my humble way of expressing gratitude for Your Ladyship's treatment of my injury. I absolutely cannot accept any payment. If you consider me a friend, please accept these paintings."

Qin Guan frowned. Accepting gifts from Wei Qizhi was something she simply couldn't do.

However, she wasn't in a hurry to argue with him about it at the moment. "Then I'll thank you for now," she said, then added, "Although your injury isn't serious, you should still be resting in bed today. Why have you come to the Marquis residence?"

Wei Qizhi glanced at Yue Ning. "I came to apologize to the County Princess."

Yue Ning narrowed her eyes at this. "You dare mention that?"

Wei Qizhi chuckled, seemingly unafraid of Yue Ning's potential reaction. "Last night was an emergency, and I didn't know what else to say, so I followed the script from our act a few days ago. I beg Your Ladyship not to take offense."

Yue Ning frowned, wanting to scold him but unsure what to criticize. It had truly been a critical moment last night - when lives hung in the balance, how could one worry about trivial matters?

Seeing Yue Ning's suppressed anger, Wei Qizhi grinned and took another painting from Wu Shu. "This painting is for you, County Princess. Such a magnificent steed - I thought you might like it."

Yue Ning raised an eyebrow. "And what's the reason for this?"

Confident that Yue Ning would appreciate such a gift, Wei Qizhi replied, "Naturally, as an apology."

Yue Ning pulled Qin Guan toward the corridor. "Unnecessary! Just don't say such things recklessly in the future. I'll let last night's emergency pass..."

As Qin Guan listened to Yue Ning, she glanced back and saw Wei Qizhi still following them cautiously. Qin Guan remarked, "This painting is truly excellent, and probably not too expensive..."

Wei Qizhi immediately added, "Exactly, it's not expensive at all. Please accept it, County Princess, so I can rest easy."

Yue Ning frowned, not believing for a moment that Wei Qizhi would actually lose sleep over this.

Seeing Yue Ning remain unmoved, Wei Qizhi said, "If Your Ladyship won't accept it, I'll have no choice but to visit every day."

Upon hearing this, Yue Ning felt her head throb with frustration. When it came to thick-skinned persistence, Wei Qizhi was second to none. She finally relented, "Fine then, leave the painting but take yourself away. You should be more careful with that injury of yours."

Wei Qizhi smiled, "Thank you for your concern, County Princess. Now that the paintings have been delivered, I'll take my leave. Farewell, Yongci County Princess."

Qin Guan nodded, and both women watched as Wei Qizhi departed.

Once he was gone, Yue Ning grumbled in annoyance, "That Wei Qizhi becomes more and more unreasonable, and increasingly shameless too! How dare he threaten me? If he weren't injured, I'd really like to give him a beating."

Qin Guan couldn't help but laugh at this. Yue Ning asked, "What are you laughing at? Do you think I wouldn't actually hit him?"

Qin Guan shook her head. "No, no, I was just thinking that if you really tried to hit him, he'd probably stand there motionless and let you do it. So go ahead and hit him if you want!"

Yue Ning blinked, and upon hearing Qin Guan's words, felt her ears grow inexplicably warm.

Wei Qizhi was a fully grown man - why would he stand motionless and let her hit him?Qin Guan didn't wish to joke about the matter further and said, "Tomorrow I plan to enter the palace to pay respects to the Empress Dowager. Would you like to come along?"

Yue Ning nodded casually, "Of course."

"Very well, I'll come find you then—"

Since the Marquis Anyang Manor was closer to the imperial city, it wouldn't be too far out of her way to pick up Yue Ning.

Qin Guan stayed at the Marquis Anyang Manor until afternoon before returning to her own residence. Early the next morning, she went straight to the manor. As the Grand Princess had been feeling lethargic these past few days, only Qin Guan and Yue Ning entered the palace together.

Having been occupied with the case for many days, Qin Guan hadn't visited the palace recently. When she arrived at the Longevity and Health Palace today, the Empress Dowager was overjoyed.

"I've heard all about it. This case was truly bizarre—fortunately you were able to help."

Qin Guan shook her head, "Your Majesty flatters me unfairly. The Prefect and Zhan Butou were the main contributors—I merely assisted. Oh, and Yue Ning helped with this matter too!"

The Empress Dowager hurriedly questioned Yue Ning, who had no choice but to briefly explain the conspiracy between Qin Guan, herself, and Wei Qizhi. Listening as if engrossed in a storyteller's tale, the Empress Dowager expressed repeated astonishment upon learning that Qin Guan had devised such a plan and that Wei Qizhi, despite hanging by a thread between life and death, had still sustained injuries. "Your audacity is truly remarkable, showing no fear of anything going awry..."

Yet she added, "Ah, only you young ones are capable of such thrilling endeavors. I have grown old..."

Her tone carried a clear note of regret, suggesting that had she been younger, she might well have joined Qin Guan and the others in their daring exploits.

Just then, the Ninth Prince, Yan Sui, toddled in from outside. Spotting Qin Guan, he approached and asked, "How is my little bird?"

The question left Qin Guan momentarily at a loss for words.

Yan Sui gazed at her with pleading eyes, and seeing no alternative, Qin Guan replied, "Of course, it's doing well. At first, it wouldn't eat or drink after being taken out, but now it's grown accustomed. Every morning, we can hear it chirping happily."

Yan Sui's eyes lit up instantly. "It was the right thing to do."

Yue Ning inquired, "Your Highness, what was the right thing to do?"

A faint smile touched Yan Sui's lips. "Taking her out was the right decision."

The Empress Dowager chuckled fondly. "Silly child, to remember a mere bird for so many days. Mammy Chen says he often murmurs about it—"

As she spoke, Mammy Chen entered from outside and announced, "Your Majesty, a servant from the Fifth Princess's household has arrived, urgently requesting an audience with you—"

Frowning, the Empress Dowager promptly said, "Quick, let her in."

Mammy Chen stepped out and soon returned with a palace maid, whose eyes were red-rimmed. The maid knelt before the Empress Dowager and pleaded, "Your Majesty, I beg you, please save our princess! The Empress is going to beat her to death!"

The Empress Dowager's face paled, while Qin Guan and Yue Ning instinctively exchanged glances!

The Empress had always doted on the princess—how could she possibly intend to kill her?!

The Empress Dowager rose to her feet. Though the maid's words sounded utterly unbelievable, such a desperate plea would not have been made unless the situation was grave. She immediately instructed Mammy Chen, "Prepare the carriage—take me to the Fifth Princess's residence at once—"

The Fifth Princess resided in Jingning Palace, north of Kunning Palace. As the Empress Dowager departed for Jingning Palace, Yue Ning and Qin Guan exchanged uncertain looks, unsure whether to follow. The Empress Dowager said, "You two wait here for now. We don't yet know what this is about."

With the situation unclear, it would be inappropriate for them to go rashly.

Qin Guan nodded and remained in the Longevity and Health Palace with Yue Ning. After the Empress Dowager left, Yue Ning whispered, "The Northern Wei envoys departed several days ago, having finalized the marriage alliance before leaving. The Empress claimed the Fifth Princess had agreed, but given today's events, it seems she didn't truly consent back then and must have changed her mind now."

Tuoba Wu and his party had delayed their departure repeatedly. They were originally set to leave much earlier, but the Fifth Princess had stubbornly refused to marry into Northern Wei. However, the Empress strongly favored this marriage alliance, which led to the Northern Wei envoys staying behind to negotiate and await the princess's change of heart.

Qin Guan sighed. "Becoming the Empress of Northern Wei may bring honor and glory, but it ultimately means being too far from home."

Yue Ning nodded in agreement. "Exactly. Once she goes to Northern Wei, she will likely never return to her homeland."Qin Guan and the other were growing restless when, in the blink of an eye, Yan Sui was once again hunched over the desk, scribbling and sketching. Qin Guan’s curiosity stirred, and she hurried over to see what he was writing. To her surprise, she discovered Yan Sui clearly writing the character for "king."

Yan Sui had always had a habit of doodling, and on one occasion, he had even drawn a rather eerie portrait. Qin Guan had always been intrigued by this, but her trip to the Mount Wei Hunting Grounds had yielded no definitive clues. Now, Yan Sui was actually writing the character "king."

"Why is Your Highness writing this character?" Qin Guan asked.

Yan Sui looked up at her and said, "Mother."

Yan Sui had a solitary nature—sometimes he could speak in complete sentences, but at other times, he couldn’t manage a single coherent phrase. Like now, he had only uttered those two words, leaving Qin Guan completely in the dark about his meaning.

"Did Consort Jin teach you this?"

Yan Sui shook his head and lowered his gaze again. Qin Guan grew anxious. "Then did Consort Jin say something to you?"

Yan Sui remained silent, not even glancing at Qin Guan.

Just as Qin Guan was about to press further, Yue Ning cast a wary look outside and said, "Why are you asking these things? Don’t you know this is forbidden?"

At Yue Ning’s words, Yan Sui seemed to understand. He stopped writing, turned, and ran out of the room.

Qin Guan could only fret helplessly. Yue Ning eyed her suspiciously. "What’s gotten into you? Mentioning Consort Jin is forbidden in the palace."

Qin Guan could only force a bitter smile. "Don’t worry, I know."

She dared not reveal her thoughts, but although Yan Sui was close to her, it seemed as though he had yet to truly open up. On the day Consort Jin was killed, Yan Sui had been the first to arrive at the scene and might very well have witnessed something—a crucial clue.

Qin Guan didn’t press further. Soon after, the Empress Dowager returned to the Longevity and Health Palace with a faint trace of anger. Qin Guan and Yue Ning hurried to greet her.

As soon as she took her seat, the Empress Dowager let out a long sigh. "What a calamity! The Empress dotes on Zhen'er the most, but this time she has acted foolishly…"

Mammy Chen, who had accompanied her, quickly added, "The Great Zhou has already formed a marriage alliance with Northern Wei. We’re just waiting for the Imperial Observatory to set the date."

The Empress Dowager sighed deeply and waved her hand. "Enough, I won’t keep you any longer. I’m feeling a bit dizzy and need to lie down for a while." She then instructed Mammy Chen, "Keep an eye on the happenings at Jingning Palace."

Seeing this, Qin Guan and Yue Ning had no choice but to take their leave. Mammy Chen escorted them out, and Yue Ning couldn’t resist asking, "Mammy Chen, what exactly happened?"

Mammy Chen regarded Yue Ning and Qin Guan as trusted confidantes and replied, "Well, even if I don’t say it, rumors are bound to spread in a couple of days. The Fifth Princess refuses to marry into Northern Wei. Not only that, she claims she already has someone she loves."

Yue Ning had mentioned this before. Qin Guan continued to watch Mammy Chen, who smiled wryly and said, "The princess said she has fallen for the Deputy Commander of the imperial guards, Zhao Yu, and is determined to marry him and no one else. When Her Highness the Empress Dowager and I arrived today, the Empress was actually whipping the Fifth Princess with a lash. The princess kept insisting she would rather die than marry. If the Empress Dowager hadn’t intervened, the Empress might have beaten the princess severely. By now, the Empress has likely summoned Deputy Commander Zhao for questioning."

Zhao Yu! Yan Zhen had actually fallen for Zhao Yu—

Qin Guan was taken aback. Yue Ning wasn’t familiar with Zhao Yu, but as the imperial guards were responsible for palace security, it wasn’t impossible for him and the princess to have crossed paths frequently.In Kunning Palace, Empress Zhao Shuhua sat on the main seat with a cold expression.

Not far from her, Zhao Yu knelt on the ground, sweating profusely.

Zhao Shuhua narrowed her cold eyes, her gaze like a sharp blade hanging over Zhao Yu's head. "When did the princess start sending you gifts?"

Zhao Yu was drenched in sweat. "It... it was after this subordinate helped the princess find that white fox."

A sharp glint suddenly flashed in Zhao Shuhua's eyes. This matter dated back to the Mount Wei Hunting Grounds. She remembered it clearly—Yan Zhen had been heartbroken after losing her little fox and had cried in her arms. She only cheered up after the fox was found. At that time, it was Zhao Yu who had retrieved the little fox. Afterwards, Zhao Shuhua had rewarded him, though for Zhao Yu, it was merely part of his duties. Zhao Shuhua had thought the matter long forgotten, never imagining she would learn today that Yan Zhen had developed feelings for Zhao Yu from that very incident. Not only that, but Yan Zhen had repeatedly sent him gifts.

Yan Zhen had been raised as the apple of Zhao Shuhua's eye. She never expected her daughter would one day oppose her so directly. She glanced at her palm, as if still bearing the marks from gripping the whip too tightly. She had never lost her temper with Yan Zhen since childhood, yet today, she had struck her with a whip. It was her negligence! She had focused too much attention on Yan Che, assuming Yan Zhen was carefree and required no additional concern.

But she had forgotten—Yan Zhen was growing up. At this age, she was precisely at the time of budding youthful affections. Especially since Yan Zhen was naive about the ways of the world, and Zhao Yu was both talented and handsome—and had even retrieved her most treasured little fox. How could she not develop feelings of fondness?

Zhao Shuhua was filled with resentment. "The Fifth Princess is the pearl in the palm of His Majesty and myself. With her noble status, how dare you repeatedly accept gifts from her?!"

Zhao Yu kept his head lowered, not daring to meet Zhao Shuhua's gaze.

"Reporting to Your Majesty, this subordinate... this subordinate did advise the princess against it, but she wouldn't listen. She said... she said she was grateful this subordinate had saved the little fox, so it was only proper. This subordinate considered informing the Crown Prince, but fearing such a trivial matter might cause misunderstanding, I ultimately refrained—"

"Trivial matter?! The princess personally made you a sachet, and you consider that trivial?!"

Zhao Shuhua was both furious and heartbroken—furious at Zhao Yu's dismissive attitude, and heartbroken that Yan Zhen's affections were likely misplaced.

Zhao Yu hurriedly explained, "Reporting to Your Majesty, this subordinate also felt it was improper, but... but these were gifts from the princess. I didn't dare refuse. Moreover, Her Highness is naturally lively and innocent, and this subordinate couldn't bear to reject her."

Zhao Shuhua narrowed her eyes. "You couldn't bear to refuse?!"

Zhao Yu swallowed with difficulty. Yan Zhen was lively and innocent, but also somewhat willful. When he refused, she would assert her royal authority. He could have stubbornly declined even at the risk of punishment, but... in the end, he had softened. It wasn't just reluctance—it was also the stirring in his heart after sensing the princess's feelings. As a scion of a noble family, marriage to the princess wasn't entirely impossible. He admired Yan Zhen's innocent, unworldly charm and thought to himself that if he served diligently these two years, earned merit and promotion, then it wouldn't be too late to bring up the matter.Although Yan Zhen had shown goodwill on several occasions, she never said anything to reveal her true feelings. Therefore, he silently accepted her kindness, thinking he would take things one step at a time. If Yan Zhen’s intentions were genuine, it wouldn’t be too late for him to plan for the future.

But he never expected that things would come to a head in just over a month.

Zhao Yu pursed his lips and straightened his back. "Yes, I believe the princess is innocent and pure-hearted, sincere in her dealings with people and matters. That is why I dare not and cannot bear to refuse her."

Zhao Shuhua sneered coldly. "Then do you know that this is a private exchange? If others were to find out, what would become of the princess’s reputation?!"

Zhao Yu hurriedly replied, "If others were to find out, I would certainly take responsibility. I would marry the princess with the utmost sincerity!"

Zhao Shuhua’s sneer deepened. "You want to marry my Zhen'er? With what standing?!"

Zhao Yu felt as if he had been slapped, but since Yan Zhen was a princess of high status, he dared not say much. He only responded, "I know I am not worthy of Her Highness the Princess at present. But the princess is still young. If she deems me worthy, I will pledge my loyalty to the Emperor for her sake and strive to one day marry her openly and honorably!"

Though Zhao Shuhua appeared fierce, she was actually testing Zhao Yu’s intentions. Hearing his words, she realized that Zhao Yu was no coward and had finally said something acceptable.

If it weren’t for Northern Wei, a talented young man like Zhao Yu could indeed be considered as a consort. But...

A flicker of pity and compassion passed through Zhao Shuhua’s heart, only to vanish instantly. She said coldly, "Are you aware of Northern Wei’s proposal to marry the princess? Though your background is not lowly, how can you compare to the Crown Prince of Northern Wei?"

Zhao Yu felt a bitter taste in his throat. "Yes, I am not as noble as the Crown Prince of Northern Wei. But... but Northern Wei is far away. The princess has grown accustomed to the comforts of having her parents and elder brother in Great Zhou. How could she travel thousands of miles to marry into Northern Wei? Northern Wei is cold year-round, and the princess would surely struggle to adapt. Not to mention, without her familiar loved ones, how lonely would she be? When the news of Northern Wei’s marriage proposal spread, I was aware of it. However, I believed that the Empress and His Majesty dote on the princess so deeply that her marriage would surely align with her wishes. That is why I never worried..."

Hearing this, the coldness in Zhao Shuhua’s eyes intensified. "Never worried? Are you trying to use my affection for Zhen'er to coerce and threaten me?! If I do not comply with her wishes, does that mean my love for her is false?"

Zhao Yu quickly lowered his head. "I dare not! Not only I, but everyone in Great Zhou would think the same." He then raised his head and said, "Empress, the princess absolutely does not wish to marry into Northern Wei. I beg you..."

Zhao Yu wanted to ask Zhao Shuhua not to force Yan Zhen, but what right did he have to say such a thing?!

Seeing the pain on Zhao Yu’s face, Zhao Shuhua’s heart stirred with ripples of emotion. If Yan Zhen was resisting so fiercely and Zhao Yu remained indifferent, she would have likely killed him!

Yan Zhen was her most beloved child. She wanted her to live a lifetime of happiness and joy, but she had been too naive in her thinking. And how could Yan Zhen possibly understand her intentions?

It didn’t matter. Even if Yan Zhen hated her now, one day she would understand a mother’s heartfelt efforts.

"Is your family currently represented only by you in the court?"

Zhao Shuhua suddenly changed the subject. Zhao Yu raised his head and replied, "Yes..."He was clearly discussing the matter between him and the princess, so why was she asking this?

Zhao Yu thought of his family and couldn't help but feel a surge of tension. The Zhao family was considered an aristocratic clan, though not the same Zhao lineage as the Empress's, it was still a prominent lineage. However, the family had now declined, with its descendants becoming dissolute and worthless. He alone supported the household. For the Empress to suddenly bring this up—was she implying...

Zhao Shuhua said coldly, "The princess's marriage to Northern Wei is inevitable. If you comply, I will not touch your position. If you insist on opposing me, I guarantee that you and your family will soon vanish from the capital."

Zhao Yu stiffened, the color draining from his face in an instant.

Though he was a scion of an aristocratic family, achieving his current status at such a young age had not been easy. He was the youngest deputy commander of the imperial guards, with a promising future and the emperor's deep favor. Thanks to him alone, his family still maintained its standing among the aristocracy. If he were to be promoted further, he could become a pillar of the state, and his family might even rival the three ducal residences and the General of the State's mansion.

If it were just him alone, it would be one thing, but he carried the hopes of nearly a hundred members of his clan on his shoulders. Should he make an enemy of the Empress? He knew that, in front of the Empress, he had no possibility of fighting back.

Zhao Yu's throat tightened. His achievements to date were due to his strategic mind and foresight, and in this matter, he had only one choice.

Yet, when he thought of Yan Zhen's smiling eyes every time she brought him gifts, he felt a bitter taste in his throat. Strictly speaking, they hadn't reached the stage of confessing their feelings to each other, but in over twenty years, he had never accepted a scented sachet from any other woman.

The choice was clear, but Zhao Yu found himself unable to voice it. It was as if, once spoken, his entire life would be overshadowed by those words, and he would never be able to enjoy any future glory and honor with a clear conscience.

Seeing Zhao Yu stiffen and remain silent, Zhao Shuhua said, "If you agree to my demands, the future position of commander of the imperial guards will undoubtedly be yours. Moreover, I can grant your family hereditary privileges!"

The offer was truly tempting. The commander of the imperial guards was the emperor's confidant, the leader of the palace guard, while hereditary privileges would ensure his family's prosperity for generations to come.

Zhao Yu's back was taut as a bowstring about to snap. His eyes fixed quietly on the floor before him. After a long silence, he said hoarsely, "I wonder... what does the Empress require of me?"

At these words, a mocking smile curled Zhao Shuhua's lips. Zhao Yu's tense back slowly relaxed, and his head drooped low. He looked utterly dejected, as if an invisible hand had forcibly bent his spine.