Coroner's Diary

Qin Guan was slightly taken aback by these words. "Alright."

The night was pitch black, its chill seeping into one's bones, yet the darkness in Yan Chi's eyes felt more oppressive than the boundless midnight. Gazing into his eyes, Qin Guan nodded without even asking what they were going to do.

Outside, Bai Feng and Baiying boarded the carriage. With the crack of the whip, the wheels began to rumble.

Inside the carriage, Yan Chi sat upright against the wall, his back straight. He had always worn black, appearing aloof and imposing. Now, dressed in white, his figure shrouded in dim light, he seemed like a sharp blade of white silk slicing through the dark clouds looming over the city. Yet, when she remembered why he was wearing white and saw the dark circles under his eyes, Qin Guan felt that this sharpness was tinged with a heart-wrenching fragility.

Noticing the concern in Qin Guan's gaze, Yan Chi raised his hand to stroke her cheek, his lips quirking slightly. "I'm fine."

Hearing this, Qin Guan's heart ached even more. She instinctively grasped his hand, wanting to say something but not knowing where to start. For someone like Yan Chi, comfort seemed too feeble and inadequate. Qin Guan forced herself to calm down.

Prince Rui's coffin had entered the capital during the day, and now he was asking for her help.

All she knew was medicine and the art of Corpse Examination...

Suddenly, Qin Guan's expression changed, and her back stiffened. She turned to look into Yan Chi's eyes, a flicker of understanding in her gaze. Could it be that he wanted her to...

Yan Chi wrapped his long arm around her, pulling her into an embrace.

He gently stroked her back, as if comforting her, or perhaps comforting himself. Qin Guan's heart was thrown into disarray.

Had things really come to this?

"It's alright," Yan Chi murmured, his hand still caressing her shoulder and back while his other hand held hers.

Unable to resist, Qin Guan lifted her gaze to meet his eyes. Yan Chi looked down at her, his lips quirking again.

His eyes were filled with coldness, devoid of any trace of a smile, yet he didn't want her to worry. Still, at this moment, it was impossible for him to remain completely composed without revealing any cracks.

Qin Guan leaned in and kissed the corner of his forcibly curved lips.

She lingered slowly near his lips, her breath brushing against his face. Yan Chi suddenly closed his eyes, his rigid posture softening slightly. Qin Guan pulled away from his lips and raised her hand to his cheek.

Yan Chi covered her hand with his, pressing it against his cheek, gently rubbing it. Finally, he kissed her palm.

Seeing her fixed gaze, Yan Chi tightened his arm, pulling her against his chest. With his other hand, he pressed her head against his shoulder, preventing her from looking at him with such worry and heartache.

Qin Guan rested her cheek against his chest. His heartbeat was steady and rhythmic, echoing in her ears and flowing through her limbs until it reached the depths of her heart. Instantly, she felt much more at ease.

The carriage sped along the main Path of the district. Before long, it came to a stop at the back gate of Prince Rui's royal residence.

Qin Guan had never entered through this gate before.

It was now the dead of night, and the entire royal residence was so quiet one could hear a pin drop. Two white lanterns hung under the eaves, swaying in the cold wind, casting a pallid glow. Bai Feng pushed the back door open with a creak that carried an eerie chill through the deep night. Yan Chi led the way, with Qin Guan following closely behind, as they made their way toward the ancestral hall within the residence.The ancestral hall had long been prepared. Today, with Prince Rui’s coffin brought back, all that remained was to dress him in the funeral garments hastily tailored by the Household Affairs Department and transfer him to the coffin befitting his princely status, also prepared by the department. As they walked, the surroundings were eerily quiet, quite different from the scene Qin Guan had imagined, where servants clad in white mourning clothes would be everywhere. As the main courtyard’s ancestral hall came into view, Yan Chi paused briefly, waiting for Qin Guan to catch up, then took her hand and led her into the solemnly arranged courtyard.

Funereal banners and white silk, sacrificial offerings, incense, and candles—Qin Guan’s gaze swept past these, fixing immediately on the dark ebony coffin placed at the center of the hall. Adorned with golden patterns, it exuded a dignified and sacred aura, its lid closed. For a moment, Qin Guan held her breath.

Yan Chi guided Qin Guan to the front of the coffin, where he knelt, his robes sweeping the ground. He turned to look at her, and understanding his intent, Qin Guan knelt beside him. Bai Feng, his expression grim, handed each of them a stick of incense. Yan Chi bowed three times, then glanced at Qin Guan again. Without a word spoken, she knew his meaning. Her eyes reddening slightly, she clutched the incense and followed suit, bowing three times.

After the bows, Yan Chi helped Qin Guan to her feet, and they both placed their incense sticks into the bronze tripod on the altar.

With the incense settled, Yan Chi stood motionless, lost in thought. His brow slightly furrowed, his gaze fixed on the coffin as if indulging in one last moment of remembrance. Qin Guan waited quietly. Soon, Yan Chi glanced at her, then circled around the altar to the side of the coffin. Placing his hand heavily on the lid, he took a sharp breath and pushed it open.

Steadying herself, Qin Guan approached the coffin.

Though summer had passed, Prince Rui had been deceased for some time, and his body had already begun to decay. Dressed in elaborate and noble funeral garments, the sight of his exposed face alone was unbearable to behold. Had it been merely an anonymous corpse, it might have been easier, but Qin Guan knew exactly who lay within. Her heart tightened, and her fingertips trembled faintly.

After examining Prince Rui’s remains, Yan Chi finally spoke, his voice unusually hoarse, “Three hours. The coffin must be sealed before dawn.”

Qin Guan had never heard Yan Chi’s voice so strained. She nodded, her own throat tight as she replied, “That’s enough. But we must first lift him out.”

As soon as she finished speaking, Yan Chi struck the coffin lid with such force that the heavy, solid cover flipped to the ground. Leaning in, he lifted Prince Rui’s body out and laid it on the overturned lid.

The body had been cleaned, so Qin Guan’s first step was to unfasten the funeral garments.

As she undressed him, she carefully observed the remains.

Prince Rui had been deceased for over twenty days. It was evident that, whether in Liangzhou or during the journey back, his body had been well-preserved. Superficially, he did not appear to have passed away so long ago, yet Qin Guan could immediately discern the obvious postmortem changes. The body had begun to swell, and dark purple cadaveric spots covered his face. The stench of decay could not be masked even by the incense and candles.

Despite this, Qin Guan could still faintly trace the heroic bearing Prince Rui had possessed in life.

The Yan clan members were all born with phoenix eyes, and Yan Lin was no exception. As Qin Guan’s gaze meticulously traced his features, her mind was far from the calm, rational state she usually maintained during a corpse examination. For the first time, she struggled to steady her emotions.Because Yan Chi's features were deeply inherited from his father, Qin Guan even felt that in twenty years, Yan Chi would grow to resemble Yan Lin. With this thought, it was as if she saw another Yan Chi lying there, and her mind became utterly distraught.

By the time Qin Guan removed the funeral garments, a thin layer of sweat had formed on her palms. Yet when she saw the wounds on the body, her heart suddenly calmed. This was the scene she knew best, and the familiarity instantly made her focused and solemn. She took out the prepared coroner's knife and began the corpse examination.

Without the funeral garments embroidered with the twelve imperial symbols, Yan Lin's body was no different from any other deceased person's. The blood-crusted wound on his chest incessantly reminded Qin Guan that Prince Rui's death was suspicious, and she was here to help Yan Chi find evidence.

Gritting her teeth, Qin Guan began her examination from the crown of Prince Rui's head, working her way down. Her movements were meticulous, her breathing light. After a moment of initial hesitation, she quickly entered her professional state. Yan Chi stood not far away, watching Qin Guan. Her manner during this examination was no different from usual, except that besides her calmness and focus, there was an added weight of solemnity.

Not wanting to pressure her with his gaze, Yan Chi turned and stood by the window. Outside, the night was ink-dark, but Yan Chi's eyes were even darker. From the moment he asked Qin Guan to help with the examination, this path had already begun.

The candle flames flickered, and the nearby palace lanterns were filled with candles, illuminating the ancestral hall brightly. In the brilliant light, Qin Guan carefully examined every wound on Prince Rui's body. Due to the time since death, various wounds and the lower part of the body had begun to decay. Without changing her expression, Qin Guan completed the first examination, then took white vinegar and applied it bit by bit to various parts of the body. Soon, wounds hidden beneath the skin's surface emerged.

"The deceased has a total of seventeen wounds. There are seven abrasions on the back, left shoulder, right wrist bone, and right calf. There are four impact or blunt force injuries on the lower abdomen and chest. The fatal wound is on the chest, preliminarily determined to be from a sharp arrow piercing the heart."

At this point, Qin Guan's tone paused slightly. "In addition, there are four more wounds on the elbows and knees. Although the wounds form a circular pattern, the outer injuries are particularly severe, showing patchy trench-like bruises. The trench width is within one inch. It appears the deceased was bound at the hands and feet with something like strip cloth while unprepared. There was more than one assailant, and they coordinated very effectively - this kind of binding method could restrain even an ox."

Yan Chi had long turned from the window. The prolonged wait had made his mood increasingly heavy. Now, even seeing Prince Rui's purple-swollen face, he couldn't detect any sadness in his heart.

Qin Guan's words were clearly restrained, which made him calm down further.

He approached two steps closer, his gaze fixed unwaveringly on Yan Lin's body.

That afternoon, he had personally changed Yan Lin's clothes and had already looked then. But not only was Yan Lin's body covered with cadaveric spots, it had begun to show greenish discoloration. If not for Qin Guan, these hidden wounds would never have been discovered.Yan Chi narrowed his eyes slightly as he examined these wounds. He could almost visualize how they had been inflicted. This was a trap, specifically designed to ensnare his father. Frowning, he suddenly turned his gaze to Yan Lin's chest!

He saw Qin Guan continuing her examination of the corpse's chest area. The wound was festering and oozing pus, yet Qin Guan used a knife to cut it open. As the incision was made, the internal decay became visible. Qin Guan scrutinized it meticulously, completely unbothered by the sticky corpse fluids coating her hands. Soon, her expression shifted and she looked up, "Did the people from the northwest mention how the prince died?"

Yan Chi replied in a low voice, "They said Father died from an arrow wound to the chest."

Qin Guan shook her head, "No, it wasn't an arrow shot. The prince was indeed killed by an arrowhead—a four-edged arrowhead at that—but this arrow was forcibly thrust into his chest by someone, not shot from a distance. The bleeding from the wound penetrated extremely deep, even damaging the vertebrae in his back. An arrow shot from afar could never possess such force."

Unless someone had gripped the arrow and driven it deep into Yan Lin's chest—how else could there be such a profound bleeding point?!

Yan Chi's pupils contracted sharply. Everyone had described it as an accident, a meticulously planned assassination by the Rong enemies. The report from the northwest frontier stated that when Yan Lin was discovered, he had already died from an arrow wound, and the assassin was nowhere to be found. Two days later, traces of Rong enemies infiltrating the Great Zhou by crossing the northern mountains of Liangzhou were discovered.

The key evidence, however, was that four-edged flower arrow embedded in Yan Lin's heart.

The Rong people revered the snow lotus as a sacred symbol, and the four-edged arrow was their distinctive marker. Such arrows were devastatingly effective, but as Qin Guan had pointed out, they had high air resistance and were unsuitable for long-range shooting. They could only be used on crossbows at close range. These arrows also had barbs; once they pierced flesh and struck the chest or abdomen, the victim would inevitably die. Even if they hit the limbs, amputation would be necessary.

At the time, upon seeing this arrow, everyone believed it must have been the work of the Rong enemies. Yet, the Rong were known for their ruthless methods—starting with flexible binding techniques, then abandoning their traditional Rong blades in favor of thrusting an arrow into Yan Lin's chest. Would a Rong assassin so blatantly leave behind their sacred arrow?!

There was another point: Rong warriors took pride in beheading their enemies. If Yan Lin had been subdued, why would the Rong forgo their traditional method of decapitation as a display of triumph?!

Either leave no trace of the Rong, plunging the Great Zhou into internal chaos, or openly declare to the entire Great Zhou that the commander of their hundred-thousand-strong Northwest Frontier Army had been slain beneath a Rong blade!

If not for noticing the peculiarity of the wound, Yan Chi might have believed Yan Lin died accidentally—perhaps due to a leaked tip that gave the Rong enemies the upper hand. They might have killed Yan Lin and fled in haste, forgetting about the arrow they had shot.

Yan Chi's phoenix eyes narrowed slightly, and Fan Xin's words echoed in his mind once more.

The people at that border post were all Zhou subjects—this was something they, having spent years on the frontier, could not possibly mistake.

How absurd that Zhou people would use a Rong four-edged arrow to kill the Northwest Frontier Army's mighty eagle!

He shut his eyes abruptly, reopening them after a moment. His cold gaze was now densely covered with ice spikes.

He cast a heavy glance at Yan Lin's remains. "Escort the princess to the waterside pavilion to freshen up."Bai Feng entered from outside and stood quietly to the side. Qin Guan finished treating the wounds on the deceased, then slowly rose to her feet. Yan Chi's profile was sharp as an arrowhead, his entire presence resembling a sheathed sword about to burst forth with brilliance. Qin Guan watched him for a moment before turning and walking out.

Even with such intimacy, Yan Chi would never reveal overwhelming rage in front of Qin Guan.

For someone like him, losing control of emotions was a form of weakness.

Qin Guan returned to the waterside pavilion, where Baiying first attended to her washing up. By the time she finished, over two cups of tea had passed. The night outside was cool as water, and standing by the window, Qin Guan felt a persistent chill in her body.

Bai Feng hesitated outside the door. Noticing this, Qin Guan quickly said, "I'll wait here. Go check on him."

Bai Feng shook her head. "Please don't blame the master, princess." These days have been too hard on him. When dressing the prince this afternoon, he didn't even redden his eyes—so many people were watching. It's been too difficult for him."

Qin Guan shook her head helplessly. "How could I blame him? I understand his state of mind."

Bai Feng breathed a sigh of relief. Earlier, Yan Chi had been particularly stern, not even exchanging a word with Qin Guan. Bai Feng feared that at this critical moment, Qin Guan might take offense, making things even harder for her master.

Qin Guan waved her hand. "I'm truly fine here. Doesn't the coffin need to be sealed before dawn? Go check."

Bai Feng hesitated briefly before nodding.

Qin Guan sat on the low couch by the window. Earlier, Steward Wu had mentioned that the funeral would take place tomorrow afternoon. Prince Rui's coffin was to be buried in the imperial mausoleum, located on Cangheng Mountain southeast of the city. The round trip would take three days. Qin Guan sat rigidly, her brow deeply furrowed.

There were issues with Prince Rui's wounds—at the very least, they weren't as widely rumored. So how did he actually die?

Qin Guan felt surrounded by thick fog, yet the facts were settled. Even the obituary announced to the world had its narrative. Now, even if she accompanied Yan Chi to speak before the Emperor, would he believe them?

Or perhaps, not only would the Emperor not believe, but he might also...

Qin Guan slowly closed her eyes. The earlier corpse examination had taken over half an hour, leaving her drenched in cold sweat. Even after this short break, the heavy exhaustion hadn't eased. Now, considering numerous possibilities, she felt as if a mountain were pressing on her shoulders. Unconsciously leaning against the small table beside the low couch, she drifted into a fitful sleep.

The night gradually faded, soon reaching the darkest hours before dawn.

In her dream, Qin Guan saw Yan Chi's blade-sharp profile again. He seemed so cold and ruthless, as if transformed into another person. Suddenly, he turned slowly, his eyes calm and unreadable as they fixed on her. In the dream, Qin Guan saw clearly—the usual depth in Yan Chi's eyes was gone, the shimmering arrogance vanished, replaced only by orbs filled with rage and grief. Abruptly, he drew the sword at his waist and swung it down toward her—

"Ah—"

Qin Guan gasped awake, her eyes flying open. Before her thoughts could settle, she saw someone sitting beside her.Yan Chi sat in the dim light, his expression unreadable. But when Qin Guan looked over, she saw the concern and suppressed anguish in his eyes. Startled, Qin Guan almost uncontrollably threw her arms around him.

Yan Chi froze, unsure what had come over Qin Guan.

He had just entered and sat down, his entire soul seemingly left behind in the ancestral hall. He instinctively knew Qin Guan was asleep, so he moved with utmost quietness. Yet suddenly, Qin Guan let out a soft cry and woke.

Qin Guan held him so tightly, her breathing still unsteady. Yan Chi snapped back to reality, feeling as if she had gathered his lost soul back into his body. Sensation returned to him—his heart began beating again, the ringing in his ears faded, and he could feel the warmth of her body. He embraced her firmly. "What's wrong? Did you have a nightmare?"

Qin Guan remained unsettled, her arms clinging to him as if trying to merge with his very bones.

Yan Chi gently stroked her back and couldn't resist kissing her forehead.

Suddenly, Qin Guan called out, "Yan Chi—"

She lifted her head and gazed intently at him. "Yan Chi..."

Her voice trembled as she spoke his name, yet she couldn't find the words. Should she tell him not to grieve? Warn him not to be blinded by rage? Or beg him not to become someone she no longer recognized?

All her worries transformed into a pair of anxious, glistening eyes fixed on Yan Chi.

Seeing her like this, Yan Chi suddenly understood her fears. He caressed her cheek and leaned in, pressing his cold face against hers. Qin Guan held him even tighter, as if trying to transfer all her warmth to him.

Yan Chi continued holding her without letting go. After a few moments, Qin Guan finally calmed down.

Noticing this, Yan Chi scooped her up horizontally and carried her swiftly into the inner chamber. He laid her directly on the bed where he usually slept. Qin Guan kept her arms wrapped around his neck, so Yan Chi leaned over and rested his head against her neck, as if drawing strength from this moment of peace to sustain him through the coming days.

Outside the window, the darkness gradually thinned and lightened, like ink washes spreading across a richly layered ink painting, blurring into the pale blue glow of dawn. After resting against her neck for a few breaths, Yan Chi suddenly said, "Stay here and sleep. At daybreak, I must leave for Cangheng Mountain. Wait for my return."

Qin Guan's lips quivered. "But..."

Yan Chi kissed her cheek, light as a feather's touch, and brushed her brows. "Return after I depart. Thank you for tonight, Guan Guan."

Qin Guan shook her head urgently, but Yan Chi pulled the brocade quilt over her.

Qin Guan lay obediently, only her eyes speaking volumes to Yan Chi. He squeezed her hand, straightened up, turned, and strode out. To Qin Guan, Yan Chi's figure vanished from sight in an instant, leaving no chance for further words of caution. A void opened in her heart, and as the room sank into boundless silence, that emptiness grew heavier, threatening to engulf her. Yet she did not chase after him.

The waterside pavilion stood deep within the royal residence. Soon, Qin Guan faintly heard the strains of funeral music. As dawn broke, the sound gradually faded into the distance. Having not slept all night, Qin Guan slowly closed her eyes.

...

...The funeral procession for Prince Rui was grand and imposing. This hero of Shuoxi departed through the city gates amidst a vast sea of white silk canopies. It was only in the afternoon that Qin Guan returned to the Marquis' residence.

Neither Qin Shu nor Hu Shi knew when Qin Guan had left. Qin Guan simply said she had gone out early.

Hu Shi sighed and said, "You wanted to see Heir Yan Chi, didn't you?"

Qin Guan neither confirmed nor denied it. Qin Shu said helplessly, "It wasn't appropriate for you to follow along today for the funeral."

She was not a member of the imperial family, nor was she the true wife of Prince Rui's heir—merely a bestowed marriage decree, which truly amounted to nothing. Qin Guan nodded to show she understood and returned to Pine Breeze Courtyard without saying more.

Yan Chi would be gone for three days, and she had no idea what he would be doing.

Qin Guan felt restless and unable to sit still. As dusk fell, she left the marquis residence to find Xun Niang.

Xun Niang and Master Yuan both wore expressions of sorrow. When she went to see Fan Xin, she found him equally grief-stricken. They had naturally learned the news of Prince Rui’s funeral that day.

Fan Xin’s injuries were gradually healing, and by now, he could already sit up.

Qin Guan breathed a sigh of relief, checked Fan Xin’s pulse, and adjusted his prescription. Fan Xin looked at her, hesitating to speak, and only after a long while asked, “Your Highness, is the Crown Prince doing well?”

Qin Guan met his gaze and asked, “What are you worried about?”

Fan Xin gave a bitter smile. Though he didn’t say it outright, his meaning was clear: with such a tragedy befalling Prince Rui’s household and Yan Chi alone in the capital, would Prince Rui’s royal residence collapse?

Qin Guan smiled faintly. “Do you not trust His Highness?”

Fan Xin shook his head, but his expression remained pained. Qin Guan sighed, her eyes suddenly turning serious. “All these years in Shuoxi, has His Highness ever lost a battle?”

Fan Xin was taken aback, then shook his head. Qin Guan curved her lips slightly and said no more, turning to leave.

Watching Qin Guan’s retreating figure, Fan Xin fell into a daze for a moment, but his eyes grew increasingly bright.

Early the next morning, Qin Guan entered the palace. This time, aside from Yan Chi, Yan Li was also accompanying the procession to the Cangheng Mountain imperial mausoleum. Prince Yi, serving as the chief official, had gone along as well. Such a grand funeral had to be handled flawlessly and magnificently to match Prince Rui’s illustrious reputation. Yet, the dead could not return to life—who had ever pondered why the mighty eagle had fallen?

The Empress Dowager coughed incessantly. After checking her pulse, Qin Guan frowned. Mammy Chen, standing nearby, said, “Her sleep hasn’t been good either. The coughing started last night. The windows in the room are all shut tight—not a hint of cold air is let in. I don’t know what’s wrong. Your Highness, is it serious?”

Qin Guan shook her head. “It’s related to Her Majesty’s old ailment. The windows shouldn’t be kept closed all the time, and Her Majesty shouldn’t lie in bed constantly. If she can get up and move around, that would be better. I’ll prescribe a formula to calm the nerves and boost energy, along with some dietary supplements. Now that autumn has arrived, the weather is truly unkind. Her Majesty should keep a Qingxin Yulu pill in her mouth daily.”

Hearing this, the Empress Dowager sighed. “I’ve always coughed every autumn—it’s nothing serious. She’s just overly anxious. With Wan Yatou here now, what is there to worry about?”

Qin Guan smiled wryly in resignation. “Momma only has your best interests at heart. You must listen to her.”

Her tone was coaxing, as if speaking to a child. The Empress Dowager chuckled but sighed, “It’s not that I don’t want to move—I just feel too lethargic and unable to stir.”

Qin Guan and Mammy Chen exchanged a glance, their expressions darkening.

After the examination, the Empress Dowager held Qin Guan’s hand to chat. “The trip to and from the imperial mausoleum will take at least three days. Thankfully, with the fifth prince accompanying them, I feel somewhat reassured. That child Yan Li has finally proven reliable for once.”

Mammy Chen laughed. “Now that the princess consort has stepped forward, the heir apparent is bound to heed her words.”

Qin Guan raised an eyebrow in surprise. Mammy Chen explained, “Your Highness may not know, but the princess consort went to Prince Rui’s residence to offer condolences. After all these years, this is the first time the princess consort has left Prince Gong’s residence.”Qin Guan couldn't help but feel surprised upon hearing this. Princess Consort Gong hadn't left the royal residence for twenty years, yet she had made an exception this time for Prince Rui's funeral rites. Thinking this, Qin Guan sighed again.

The Empress Dowager was also in low spirits. After speaking with Qin Guan for a while, she claimed fatigue. Mammy Chen and Qin Guan had no choice but to let the Empress Dowager rest. As Qin Guan left the main hall, she spotted Yan Sui after just a few steps.

Qin Guan took Yan Sui's hand and led her beneath the corridor, where they sat together on a decorative bench bordering the flowerbed—one tall, one small.

Yan Sui pursed her lips in silence before asking after a moment, "How is my goldfinch?"

Qin Guan's heart leaped, and she quickly replied, "It's well, very well. Just a few days ago, it flew out of sight. Since its wings have fully healed, I thought it might be best to let it fly beyond the capital into the wooded hills. What does Your Highness think?"

Yan Sui seemed reluctant but eventually nodded. "Very well then."

Hearing this, Qin Guan finally relaxed. Yan Sui then tugged at Qin Guan's sleeve and asked, "Is Grandmother very ill?"

Qin Guan looked into Yan Sui's slightly fearful eyes and shook her head. "Not seriously. She will recover."

Yan Sui exhaled and nodded like a little adult.

Qin Guan felt a pang of complex emotions. After exchanging a few more words with Mammy Chen, she left the palace.

The day passed in this manner. Early the next morning, Zheng Baishi and Zhan Yang arrived at the marquis' residence to see Qin Shu. Sensing something unusual, Qin Guan personally brewed a pot of tea and brought it to the study courtyard.

This time, Qin Guan had come uninvited. When Zheng Baishi and Zhan Yang saw her, they were both taken aback.

Zheng Baishi promptly said, "Since you're here, County Princess, please join us and listen."

Qin Guan smiled. "Is this about the case? I came precisely to inquire about its progress."

Zheng Baishi nodded. "Yes, we've identified the victim. We're almost certain it's Song Xiwen, a former guard of Prince Jin. Regarding the old injuries you discovered, we found some records. Song Xiwen was injured six years ago during the spring hunt at Mount Wei Hunting Grounds while protecting Prince Jin. It's said Prince Jin nearly fell victim to a black bear. His wounds were treated by the imperial physician who accompanied them, matching the two injuries you identified. Additionally, Song Xiwen's martial arts style indeed favored right-legged strikes. We've carefully verified these points and confirmed it's undoubtedly Song Xiwen."

Qin Guan continued, "Isn't that good news then?"

Zheng Baishi shook his head. "The identity is confirmed, but we're still uncertain how to proceed with the investigation. If we investigate, this case must start from within the palace..."

This echoed Zheng Baishi's previous concerns. Last year, when investigating Prince Jin's case, Shen Yi, the Minister of the Court of Judicial Review, and his entire family met tragic ends. Now, encountering another case linked to Prince Jin Manor, Zheng Baishi had to proceed with extreme caution.

Zheng Baishi's approach was to seek out Qin Shu, who represented the stance of the Eastern Palace.

Qin Guan instantly grasped the connection.

Qin Shu then spoke frankly, "The Crown Prince hasn't inquired about this matter these past few days. Even if asked, he would likely insist on 'handling it strictly by the book.' You know how seriously the Crown Prince takes such matters, Brother Zheng."

Zheng Baishi gave a wry smile. Meanwhile, Qin Guan, listening nearby, felt a hint of mockery stirring within her.For Crown Prince Yan Che, whether this case could bring justice to the deceased was unimportant; what mattered was whether he could use this incident to eliminate dissidents or, at the very least, create some trouble for his opponents.

"To be frank with you, Marquis, I am pondering how to draft this memorial. Honestly, I wish to investigate this case. Not only did a perfectly fine person escape, but they also died in Prince Jin Manor. The more I think about it, the more bizarre it seems. However, you are aware of my reservations."

Qin Shu sighed, "This matter is truly uncertain. If you remain hesitant, I could enter the palace and inquire on your behalf?"

Zheng Baishi smiled, "That would be excellent!"

Qin Shu's eyes shifted thoughtfully as he added, "What does Brother Li think about this?"

Zheng Baishi smiled wryly, "Brother Li advised against touching this case, which is why I came to you."

Qin Shu frowned, and Qin Guan also furrowed her brow. Did Li Muyun not want Zheng Baishi to investigate this case? Beyond the seemingly reasonable excuses on the surface, what other reasons could there be?

Zheng Baishi did not stay long and soon prepared to take his leave. Qin Guan followed him out and noticed that Zhan Yang, walking behind, looked unusually grave. Qin Guan slowed her pace and asked, "What is on your mind, Zhan Butou?"

Zhan Yang appeared somewhat embarrassed. Seeing that Zheng Baishi and Qin Shu had walked farther ahead, he replied, "Our superior is hesitant to act for fear of collateral damage, and I have no good solution. This constant hesitation is truly frustrating."

Qin Guan smiled, "Zhan Butou, having served in the capital for many years, must be accustomed to such situations."

Zhan Yang's expression shifted slightly, and after a moment, his voice turned cold and low, "Indeed, I am accustomed to it. It's just that this time it involves the royal family. The thought of a proper investigation being halted midway makes me feel stifled and aggrieved."

Whether it involved the royal family or any influential official, cases in the capital were never easy to handle.

Zhan Yang had witnessed this far too often, yet it did not diminish his inner indignation. Perhaps it was precisely because he had seen too much that his anger burned even brighter—an anger that Qin Guan perceived at a glance.

"If this case ultimately cannot be pursued, what would Zhan Butou think?"

Zhan Yang gave a bitter smile, "I... I am powerless. But I believe that those who commit evil in this world will eventually face retribution. It is not that justice is absent, but that its time has not yet come—"

Even Zhan Yang began to speak these words, and Qin Guan's smile grew even more bitter.

Zhan Yang seemed to sense Qin Guan's thoughts and said reassuringly, "Does the Princess find this unreasonable? In truth... this is the rule. Whether in the capital or elsewhere, it is always like this. I understand our superior's difficulties. I cannot control others; I only know that when my superior gives an order, I will carry it out with all my might. As for the rest, we leave it to heaven."

A sense of admiration stirred within Qin Guan. From the first time she met Zhan Yang, she had felt he was different. He was like an official's blade—unyielding, unbreakable, and steadfast. Among the officials of the capital, such integrity was a rarity.

After seeing off Zheng Baishi and Zhan Yang, Qin Shu indeed set off for the palace. Though Qin Guan could not accompany him, her heart was deeply unsettled. Song Xiwen's remains seemed to be a catalyst, and everyone's attitude toward it revealed something, to varying degrees. She was intensely curious: would the Crown Prince truly order the Lin'an Prefecture to continue investigating the case?

...In the evening, Qin Shu hurriedly returned to the residence from the palace. Upon receiving the news, Qin Guan immediately went to the study. Seeing her arrival, Qin Shu smiled and asked, "What? So concerned about this case?"

Qin Guan replied, "This case is peculiar. I believe I can be of assistance."

Qin Shu's tone softened slightly, "Child, you've already done well. Without you, how could they have argued their case in court? However, it's a pity..."

Qin Guan's heart sank, "Does the Crown Prince not wish to pursue this investigation?"

Qin Shu shook his head, "It's not about not investigating, but rather not allowing the Lin'an Prefecture to handle it."

Qin Guan was puzzled. Who else would handle cases in the capital if not the Lin'an Prefecture?

Seeing Qin Guan's focused gaze, Qin Shu decided to be direct, "The Crown Prince wants Prince Cheng's people to investigate."

Qin Guan was startled for a moment, "Prince Cheng's people? But Prince Cheng is neither the chief official of Lin'an Prefecture nor a vice minister of the Ministry of Justice. How can he investigate this case?"

Qin Shu explained, "Over the past two days, Prince Cheng has been the most vocal in advocating for a thorough investigation. Since Lord Zheng is aligned with the Crown Prince's faction, the Crown Prince doesn't want Lord Zheng implicated in this case. Therefore, since Prince Cheng is so eager to investigate, let his people take charge. After all, this case is likely connected to last year's incident."

Last year's case involving Prince Jin wasn't handled by Lin'an Prefecture either—it was presided over by her own father.

This year, having Prince Cheng's people take the lead wouldn't be unreasonable.

Though Qin Guan thought this way, she couldn't immediately refute it. She only wondered how she could intervene if Prince Cheng's people were to handle the case.

Noticing Qin Guan's distraction, Qin Shu advised, "You needn't concern yourself too much with this case. You're aware of last year's events—everyone is avoiding it now. After all, you're a woman..."

Qin Guan disagreed with this sentiment but knew there was no point in arguing with Qin Shu.

With a heavy heart, Qin Guan returned to Pine Breeze Courtyard.

At times like these, Qin Guan lamented not being born a man. Otherwise, why would she be so passive?

Her nominal position only granted her the privilege of being on call, but making real decisions was difficult. And what did it mean that the Crown Prince was pushing this case to Prince Cheng?!

Did Prince Cheng want to investigate to undermine the Crown Prince's faction, or was he truly without ulterior motives?

Qin Guan's thoughts were in turmoil. Early the next morning, she received news.

The case had indeed been assigned to Prince Cheng to preside over, with Prince Cheng leading, assisted by Minister of the Court of Judicial Review Li Muyun and Lin'an Prefecture. Prince Cheng had previously been in charge of the Ministry of Works. If he handled this case well, the Emperor promised that the Ministry of Justice would also fall under his jurisdiction, putting him on par with the Crown Prince, who oversaw the Ministry of Personnel and the Ministry of Revenue.

Minister Li Muyun of the Court of Judicial Review was an upright official, while Zheng Baishi of Lin'an Prefecture belonged to the Crown Prince's faction. The Emperor's arrangement seemed reasonable—with Prince Cheng and Zheng Baishi balancing each other and the incorruptible Li Muyun involved, everything appeared justified. Prince Cheng's first action in investigating the case was to enter the Imperial Punishment Office and arrest several chief eunuchs for interrogation under torture.Once the case began its investigation, Qin Guan breathed a sigh of relief. After all, she held a nominal position and could attempt to participate when necessary—this was Qin Guan’s own proactive mindset. However, she never expected that on the very second day Prince Cheng took charge of the case, he would send someone to invite her into the palace, openly expressing his regard for her without any attempt at concealment.

This was the second time Prince Cheng’s people had openly arrived at Loyal Marquis Manor. The first time was to take Qin Xiang away, and this time, it was to summon Qin Guan to accompany him in hearing the case. Qin Guan couldn’t immediately discern Prince Cheng’s intentions behind this move, but Qin Shu’s expression turned visibly unpleasant. Yet, how could Qin Guan let such a golden opportunity slip away?!

Pretending not to notice Qin Shu’s meaningful gaze, Qin Guan hesitated only briefly before following Prince Cheng’s envoy into the palace.

This was Qin Guan’s first time stepping into the Imperial Punishment Bureau—a place so mysterious it sent chills down one’s spine.