Coroner's Diary

Qin Guan thought of Meng Yao, then of Qin Ye, forcing a faint smile as she asked, "Aunt, do you truly think Meng Yao is suitable?"

Hu Shi replied, "To be honest, I'm not entirely certain either. That's why I'm asking you, Guan'er."

While Qin Guan held Meng Yao in high regard, she had no insight into Meng Yao's own thoughts. "Meng Yao is the eldest daughter of the Meng family. Although Minister Meng was demoted due to the previous case involving the Meng residence, the family's principles remain intact. You needn't worry about her character. As for her talents and learning, there's no doubt—you've seen her appearance yourself. I believe Meng Yao is truly exceptional."

Hu Shi beamed with delight. "Excellent, excellent! In that case, I'll discuss it with your uncle. If he has no objections, I'll begin making arrangements. Although your fourth brother isn't my biological son, he's no different from one. Now that I've settled your third brother's marriage, I can't neglect your fourth brother."

Suddenly, Hu Shi added, "And you—I'd like to arrange a match for you too, but your marriage must be approved by the Empress Dowager and the Grand Princess. Even if I wished to intervene, I doubt my opinion would carry much weight. Still, Guan'er, since both your elder sisters' marriages are settled, I must ask: what are your thoughts on this matter?"

Caught off guard by the sudden focus on herself, Qin Guan felt slightly flustered but composed herself. "I haven't given much thought to my own marriage..."

Hu Shi sighed as if she had expected this response. "You're different from ordinary girls, child. I won't rush you, but a woman's life is truly secured only with a reliable marriage. Take your uncle and me, for example—we've spent half our lives together, blessed with children, and now at my age, I feel my life has been smooth and joyful. So, Guan'er, do ponder this matter carefully. You're nearly at the age for marriage discussions. Since you often move in palace circles, you must have met many eligible men. If there's someone you favor, you can tell me. If I find him reliable, I'll bring it up with the Empress Dowager and the Grand Princess. Don't feel shy about it. If there's no one you fancy, I can also keep an eye out for you—but only with your consent."

Lately, Hu Shi had been particularly attentive to Qin Guan. Faced with her aunt's gentle persuasion, Qin Guan found it difficult to refuse outright. "In that case, please allow me some time to consider it. You focus on Fourth Brother and Third Brother's matters—no need to divert your attention to me."

Hu Shi was satisfied. Given Qin Guan's status, her future husband would undoubtedly hold a high position, which would bring additional support to the Marquis household. As her aunt, she would have fulfilled her duty.

After exchanging a few more words with Hu Shi, Qin Guan returned to Pine Breeze Courtyard.

Hu Shi's words stirred ripples in her heart, leading her to reflect on her relationship with Yan Chi. However, now that she had uncovered clues about her father's case and confirmed his innocence, only one thought occupied Qin Guan's mind: to find more evidence regarding her father's unjust conviction. Marriage, to her, was not the most pressing matter.

Moreover, Yan Chi was entangled in the Northwest Military Provisions case. For the heir apparent's grand wedding, Prince Rui might need to return to the capital—the implications were evident. With these thoughts, Qin Guan recalled the Golden Feather Arrow Guards she had seen earlier...

Her heart skipped uneasily. Closing her eyes and shaking her head, she refocused. Currently, evidence about her father's case could be found in three places: the palace, the Court of Judicial Review, and the Ministry of Justice. Yet, these were not places one could enter freely.Qin Guan frowned deeply, her heart burning with anxiety, yet she had no idea how to break through this impasse. What made it worse was that this was a shocking case that could either throw the court into chaos or bring disaster upon the Marquis’s household and Yan Chi.

By evening, upon learning that Qin Shu had returned from court, Qin Guan immediately took her attendants to the main courtyard. Inside, Qin Shu had just finished discussing Meng Yao’s matter with Hu Shi when Granny Yu announced from outside, "Marquis, Madam, the County Princess is here."

Qin Shu raised an eyebrow. "Let Guan’er come in…"

Qin Guan entered, paid her respects, and Qin Shu smiled, "Coming here so late—is something the matter?"

Qin Guan replied, "Aunt mentioned Meng Yao’s situation earlier today. Since Meng Yao and I are on good terms, I thought about it after returning. Although the Meng family has declined somewhat recently, Minister Meng has long been known for his integrity in court, and the Mengs are a scholarly family. I came to ask what arrangements you and Uncle have in mind. If there’s any way I can help, I won’t hesitate."

Qin Shu chuckled, "Your aunt was just saying we need to send someone to propose the match. If Minister Meng finds it acceptable, your aunt plans to visit in person—"

Qin Guan responded, "That would be good, but since Meng Yao’s mother passed away early, it might be more appropriate for Uncle to make the visit to discuss this matter."

Qin Shu and Hu Shi exchanged glances, and Hu Shi suddenly realized, "Look at me—I completely forgot that. If I went, I wouldn’t know how to negotiate with Minister Meng. Marquis, I think it’s better for you to go."

With Madam Meng deceased, Hu Shi’s visit would indeed be inconvenient. Qin Shu said, "Fortunately, you came. I’ll make the visit when the time comes."

Qin Guan asked, "Will you be going in the next couple of days, Uncle?"

Qin Shu sighed, "I do have some free time these days, but we should first send a matchmaker to inquire. Otherwise, it might seem abrupt. Although I’ve met Minister Meng before, we aren’t particularly close."

Qin Guan’s heart stirred. Golden-feathered arrow guards had just entered the capital today, yet Qin Shu said there was nothing urgent at court—could it be that it wasn’t a major issue?

"Uncle is very thoughtful. As for this matter, should I give Meng Yao a heads-up?"

Hu Shi smiled, "That would be good. You’re close to her, and since we’re proposing a marriage, both sides should be happy. If she asks about Yan Sui’s character and appearance, you can tell her."

Qin Guan nodded, exchanged a few more words, and then took her leave. Not far away, Baiying caught up and whispered, "Miss, I asked the servants in the main courtyard. They said the Marquis returned today looking very relaxed and at ease. After dinner, he chatted with Madam for a long time about household matters. They also mentioned that the Marquis said he doesn’t need to go to court early tomorrow morning."

Hearing this, Qin Guan finally felt reassured. It seemed there really was no trouble at court.

She smiled, "It seems I was overthinking. Let’s go back."

With her doubts dispelled, Qin Guan relaxed. Returning to Pine Breeze Courtyard, she solemnly placed Yan Sui’s Longevity Lock in a small drawer in her bedchamber, instructed Fuling, and then retired for the night.

Early the next morning, Qin Guan entered the palace again. Having learned much about Consort Jin from Momma Su the previous day, she thought she might uncover more from Momma Su and Yan Sui.Arriving at the Longevity and Health Palace, the Empress Dowager was overjoyed to see Qin Guan. As it was now late summer turning to early autumn, the weather had gradually cooled, and the Empress Dowager’s health had taken on a somewhat frail state, with occasional coughing fits. Qin Guan took her pulse, prescribed a remedy, and gently massaged her shoulders and neck, bringing the Empress Dowager much comfort. Holding Qin Guan’s hand, she spoke at length, eventually remarking, "Now that the Crown Prince and Prince Cheng are both married, my heart is somewhat at ease. But Yan Chi, Yan Li, you, and Ning'er—none of you have settled down yet. I simply can’t rest easy. Even if I were to close my eyes one day, I would struggle to find peace."

Qin Guan quickly replied, "Your Majesty will surely live a hundred years—please don’t say such things."

The Empress Dowager clasped Qin Guan’s hand and said, "Who truly lives to a hundred? You’re just trying to comfort me. Ah, I worry as an old woman, yet all of you take your time. Guan'er, you must think carefully about this. In a few days, when they come to the palace, I’ll have to urge them properly too."

Qin Guan smiled and said, "Don’t worry, I’ll keep this in mind. If I come to any decision, you’ll be the first to know."

Satisfied, the Empress Dowager, feeling drowsy as it was noon, retired for her nap.

Qin Guan stepped out of the inner chamber and immediately spotted Yan Sui, who seemed to be waiting for her. He grabbed her hand and started leading her out of the Longevity and Health Palace. Qin Guan asked helplessly, "Your Highness, where are we going?"

Yan Sui didn’t answer, still pulling her along. Momma Su moved to follow with the maids, but Yan Sui suddenly turned and said, "You are not to come." He then glanced at Baiying.

Momma Su gave a wry smile and looked pleadingly at Qin Guan, who reassured her, "It’s nothing. He probably just wants to go somewhere to play. I can take him. Don’t worry, Momma. Baiying, you wait here as well."

After the events of the previous day, Momma Su naturally trusted Qin Guan and quickly expressed her thanks, watching as Yan Sui led Qin Guan away.

Once outside the Longevity and Health Palace, Yan Sui pulled Qin Guan toward the Imperial Garden, deliberately choosing secluded paths. Qin Guan, unsure of his intentions, asked, "Your Highness, where are we heading?"

Without looking back, Yan Sui dragged her to a rockery in the Imperial Garden. The rockery was piled up like a small hill, surrounded by lush greenery and filled with numerous grottoes. Yan Sui pulled Qin Guan into one of them.

The entrance was only slightly more than half a person’s height, forcing Qin Guan to stoop as she entered. "Your Highness, what is this place?"

Yan Sui seemed familiar with the place and, without a word, continued to pull Qin Guan deeper inside. After advancing several yards, he suddenly released her hand.

While it was bright outside, the interior was dim and cramped. It took Qin Guan a moment to adjust her eyes, revealing a hollow passageway. Dampness had caused moss to grow all around. Yan Sui was squatting on the ground, seemingly digging for something. Soon, he stood up and pressed something cold into Qin Guan’s hand.

Startled, Qin Guan faintly discerned a jade seal and a pure gold bracelet lying in her palm.

Yan Sui whispered, "Mother’s."

With that, Qin Guan understood—this was another of Yan Sui’s hiding spots! These items, the seal and bracelet, were relics of Consort Jin. Relieved, Qin Guan crouched down and asked, "Your Highness, do you want me to take these out as well?"Yan Sui nodded, "Keep it safe."

Having already helped him store things once before, Qin Guan had no reason to refuse now. Seeing that Yan Sui had pulled her into this pitch-black place, she couldn't help but laugh wryly, "Alright, Your Highness, do you have anything else hidden elsewhere?"

Yan Sui shook his head, "Just these."

Qin Guan felt relieved. These two small items wouldn't be difficult to carry out.

After placing the seal and bracelet into her sleeve pouch, Qin Guan took Yan Sui's hand and turned to leave. But they had only taken one step when footsteps suddenly sounded from outside. Qin Guan immediately froze, and Yan Sui beside her clearly grew tense too, not daring to move.

At first, they thought it was just someone passing by who would soon leave, but unexpectedly, the person outside stopped right by the rockery. For a moment, Qin Guan almost thought they were about to come inside.

"Your Highness, this matter is too strange. The Emperor has remained completely silent about it. Should we take this opportunity to have General Zheng consolidate power within the Northwest Frontier Army? Otherwise, it might be too late when the time comes..."

The speaker was an unfamiliar man's voice. Upon hearing this, Qin Guan immediately focused her attention—this person was talking about the Northwest Frontier Army!

"Father's silence means he doesn't want to cause unrest in the Northwest Frontier Army. However, we should indeed make early arrangements. The Crown Prince has ears in Chongzheng Hall too, so he'll likely learn of this soon. This gives us the advantage now—send a message to General Zheng immediately. The preparations we made earlier will now come into play."

When she heard Yan Qi's voice, Qin Guan immediately felt uneasy. By the time Yan Qi finished speaking, her heart was pounding wildly. Why would the Northwest Frontier Army face unrest?! What had happened in the Northwest Frontier Army?

In an instant, Qin Guan thought of the Golden Feathered Arrow Guards she had seen yesterday!

Outside, Yan Qi seemed to ponder for a moment before saying, "Yan Chi probably doesn't know that Prince Rui is dead."

Upon hearing this, Qin Guan froze, almost doubting her own ears. Prince Rui is dead? How could Prince Rui die?!

"Yes, His Highness Chi has hardly appeared these past few days. This place is thousands of miles away from Liangzhou in the northwest—he definitely doesn't know. The news was delivered by the Golden Feathered Arrow Guards. Right now, only the Emperor knows. If we hadn't placed people in the Benevolence Hall, we wouldn't have learned of this so quickly either."

Another person chimed in, and Qin Guan realized she hadn't misheard!

Qin Guan was stunned, feeling as if she had been struck by lightning. They were indeed saying that Prince Rui was dead!

Crouching down, Qin Guan suddenly felt her ears ringing and her knees going weak. She couldn't fathom how the illustrious Prince Rui, with his great military achievements, could possibly be dead! Yan Chi was still in the capital—if he learned of this, what devastating grief would he suffer!

Unconsciously, Qin Guan's breathing grew rapid, her chest feeling as if a blunt knife were stuck in it. She desperately wanted to see Yan Chi immediately, but the people outside hadn't left yet. Yan Qi was still speaking with his confidant...

Yan Qi let out a cold laugh, "The Northwest Frontier Army has been under the control of him and his father for many years. Even if Prince Rui is dead, Yan Chi remains. Father received the news but kept it secret to prevent the Northwest Frontier Army's power from falling into others' hands. Father probably hasn't decided to eliminate Yan Chi yet. In that case, let's give Yan Chi a push..."

"Your Highness, what do you plan to do?!"Yan Qi pondered for a moment. "Have Yang Han submit a memorial immediately, stating that the old corruption case of military provisions in the northwest remains unresolved. Suggest sending Yan Chi to personally investigate the matter. Yan Chi has long been impatient with this lingering issue—once the memorial is submitted, he will surely volunteer to go. His Majesty will have no reason to oppose it. Seeing Yan Chi so eager to head northwest, His Majesty will inevitably grow suspicious of him. How could he then allow Yan Chi to remain in this world?"

Another person hesitated briefly. "But what if His Majesty agrees yet still keeps Heir Apparent Yan in the capital?"

Yan Qi sneered coldly. "Last time in Yuanzhou we failed—do you think he'll escape unscathed again this time? If His Majesty won't remove him, I will! I refuse to believe he has nine lives!"

"This subordinate understands Your Highness's meaning. I'll go find Minister Yang at once. The memorial can be submitted this afternoon, and I'm afraid His Late Highness will be departing for the northwest by tonight."

Qin Guan listened with eyes wide in fury. Prince Rui's death remained unexplained, yet Prince Cheng was already plotting to take Yan Chi's life! And that mention of Yuanzhou—could it be referring to when Yan Chi was injured en route to Jinzhou?!

She could still vividly recall the long, diagonal scar running down Yan Chi's back.

So it was Prince Cheng who had tried to kill Yan Chi back then!

Qin Guan burned with anxiety and rage, her eyes turning crimson. Yan Chi had indeed long wished to personally investigate the military provisions case in the northwest. Yang Han served as Minister of Revenue, whose department managed the national treasury—military provisions fell under the joint jurisdiction of the Ministry of Revenue and Ministry of War. How could the Emperor possibly oppose Yang Han's memorial? Moreover... keeping Yan Chi in the capital would provide no justification to move against him, but once Yan Chi left the capital, those with malicious intentions could act freely. Perhaps even the Emperor himself was waiting for an opportunity to send Yan Chi to the northwest!

Cold sweat poured down Qin Guan's forehead like rain, her hand holding Yan Sui's trembling uncontrollably. She clenched her jaw so tightly that her grip on Yan Sui's hand became painful, yet Yan Sui pressed his lips together without uttering a sound.

Outside, the conversation concluded, and footsteps echoed—growing fainter until they finally departed from this secluded spot. They likely never imagined two people were hidden within the hollow cavity beneath the artificial mountain.

Though the men had left, Qin Guan's knees weakened and she swayed unsteadily. Suddenly snapping back to awareness, she sprang upright—she needed to find Yan Chi! In her haste, she forgot the cavity was only half a person's height. With a loud "thump," her head struck hard against the stone ceiling.

The sharp pain brought instant tears to her eyes, but it also jolted her into calm clarity.

Gasping sharply, she didn't bother checking if her head was bleeding, instead turning immediately to Yan Sui. "Your Highness, you must not speak a word of what we just heard to anyone. Understand?"

Yan Sui stared blankly without responding. Qin Guan shook him urgently. "Your Highness! You cannot speak of this, understand?"

Yan Sui nodded. "I know. I won't tell."

Qin Guan wiped her damp eyes, steadied her breathing, then drew a deep breath and led Yan Sui outward. Emerging from the dim cavity, blinding white light stabbed painfully into her pupils. Between her aching eyes and throbbing head, she swayed again. Bracing against the stone wall, she took another deep breath before leading Yan Sui out with measured composure.Qin Guan wished she could fly back to the Longevity and Health Palace immediately, yet she deliberately maintained a measured pace. The guards and palace maids passing by on the Palace Road couldn’t detect the pain and anger in her heart. Holding Yan Sui’s hand, each step she took brought a little more clarity to her mind, but by the time she reached the palace gates, her back was already soaked with cold sweat.

She squeezed Yan Sui’s hand and glanced at him. His small face was pale, but he looked back at her. Qin Guan let out a breath and finally entered the Longevity and Health Palace. As soon as she reached the front hall, Momma Su and Baiying, who had been waiting there, hurried to greet her. Baiying stepped forward quickly and said, "Miss! The Crown Prince is here! The Empress Dowager has risen and is speaking with him inside."

Momma Su, taking Yan Sui from her, added, "Yes, His Highness Yan Chi is here."

Qin Guan’s mind buzzed again. Releasing Yan Sui, she strode inside. By the time she realized she was walking too hastily, she had already reached the entrance of the main hall. Inside, Yan Chi, dressed in a flowing black robe with wide sleeves, was seated in a lower seat, conversing with the Empress Dowager. When with those close to him, his smile, though faint, did not seem cold or distant. Seeing the curve of his lips, Qin Guan felt a lump form in her throat—he still didn’t know that Prince Rui had met with misfortune!

"Wan Yatou, come in quickly!"

The Empress Dowager spotted Qin Guan first. At her call, Qin Guan snapped back to attention and stepped inside.

Yan Chi turned around, and his smile deepened when he saw Qin Guan.

The Empress Dowager chuckled, "I haven’t seen him for days, and when I asked, it turned out he’d gone hunting outside the city. The wild deer in early autumn are plump and lively—he’s already had some sent to the palace…"

So Yan Chi’s absence these past few days was due to a hunting trip.

Qin Guan glanced at Yan Chi, but the moment their eyes met, she abruptly looked away. Forcing a smile, she said, "I... I see... It truly is the perfect season for hunting now."

The Empress Dowager laughed heartily, "Yes, I can’t bear to slaughter the deer just yet. I plan to keep it until winter, when it snows. We’ll roast the venison and enjoy it with wine. I’ll have someone fetch last year’s snow-brewed plum wine. You must join us then, and we’ll invite many others to share in the merriment."

Qin Guan smiled, "That would be wonderful…"

Yan Chi’s gaze lingered on Qin Guan’s face. After a moment, he said, "I’ve been away for several days and must report to the office. Grandmother, I’ll return to see you this evening."

The Empress Dowager beamed, "Very well, you may go." She then glanced at Qin Guan and said, "Wan’er, please see him out for me."

Qin Guan was only too willing. Nodding, she turned and followed Yan Chi as they walked out together. Not far from the main hall, Yan Chi paused and looked at her. "What’s wrong?"

Qin Guan’s throat tightened instantly—her unease couldn’t escape Yan Chi’s notice!

But how could she break such news to him?

Her eyes glistening, Qin Guan stared at Yan Chi, unable to form the words. Her lips moved, but her throat felt as if stuffed with cotton, rendering her voiceless. Yan Chi frowned. "What is it? What has happened?"

Gritting her teeth, Qin Guan was about to speak when she spotted Tang Fu approaching from behind Yan Chi. Tang Fu smiled and said, "Greetings, Your Highness the heir apparent, and to you, my lady. Your Highness, the Crown Prince requests your presence. He asks that you proceed to the Eastern Palace."Yan Chi raised an eyebrow, glanced at Tang Fu, then looked at Qin Guan and said, "I'll come over later."

This naturally meant he wanted Qin Guan to wait here for him.

Qin Guan looked at Tang Fu, then at Yan Chi. The words were on the tip of her tongue, but she finally said, "Alright. The Empress Dowager still has matters to discuss with you later. You... you must return to the Longevity and Health Palace."

A flicker of suspicion passed through Yan Chi's eyes. He nodded, then followed Tang Fu as they walked outward.

Watching Yan Chi disappear into the distance, Qin Guan felt as if a knife were twisting in her heart. Her mind raced—why did the Crown Prince summon Yan Chi? The military power of the Northwest Frontier Army was crucial in the struggle for the throne! Prince Cheng had his schemes, and the Crown Prince couldn't possibly remain unmoved!

Prince Cheng revealed that the Crown Prince had also placed his own people in Chongzheng Hall. Since the Emperor chose to keep Prince Rui’s death a secret and refrain from announcing the mourning, the Crown Prince would not rashly inform Yan Chi of this matter. There was only one possibility: the Crown Prince’s summons to Yan Chi now was to send him to Shuoxi! Everyone wished for Yan Chi to be drawn into the chaos of Shuoxi; everyone wished for Prince Rui’s lineage to be completely severed!

Qin Guan’s heart pounded like a drum, her palms breaking out in cold sweat. She had previously thought that Zhang Daoshi’s warning about Yan Chi leaving the capital referred to his investigation of the military provisions case in the northwest. Little did she expect that the true calamity was Prince Rui’s death!

Qin Guan raised her hand to wipe the cold sweat from her forehead and instinctively turned to retrace her steps. Though her status was higher than that of ordinary commoners, in the imperial palace and court, she was insignificant. What means did she have to stop Yan Chi from heading west?

Suddenly, Qin Guan’s eyes widened as if she had remembered something. A flicker of hesitation and calculation passed through her gaze, quickly replaced by resolute determination. Clenching her teeth, she strode decisively toward the main hall of the Longevity and Health Palace.

Inside the main hall, the Empress Dowager was still reclining on her couch, resting. She smiled upon seeing Qin Guan return but was taken aback by the anxious and flustered expression on Qin Guan’s face. “Wan Yatou, what’s the matter?”

Qin Guan strode to the Empress Dowager’s couch and knelt with a thud.

The Empress Dowager sat up straight immediately. “What is it?”

Qin Guan’s eyes burned intently as she looked at the Empress Dowager. “Your Majesty, I’ve thought about what you said to me earlier. You once promised me that if there ever came a day when I found someone I truly admired, I could ask you to bestow a marriage. Your Majesty, does that promise still hold?”

The Empress Dowager let out a relieved laugh. “Of course it does! With the way you looked, I thought something terrible had happened. Wan Yatou, rise and speak—”

Qin Guan shook her head, remaining on her knees. “Your Majesty, then I ask you to bestow a marriage upon me.”

The Empress Dowager raised an eyebrow, but Qin Guan pressed on urgently, “Please bestow a marriage upon me and Prince Rui’s heir!”