Coroner's Diary

The Imperial Punishment Office was more oppressive and cramped than any prison Qin Guan had ever seen.

Whether it was the Ministry of Justice's Celestial Prison, the Court of Judicial Review's detention cells, or the jailhouses of Lin'an Prefecture and Jinzhou's magistrate, most had small cells measuring five zhang square. But in the Imperial Punishment Office, aside from the torture instruments covering the walls, there were only narrow, pitch-black dungeons barely large enough for one or two people to stand upright. Once the cell door closed, it was utterly dark inside, almost airtight, making it feel no different from standing in a coffin.

The government's prisons at least resembled places meant to hold people, but the Imperial Punishment Office's cells were like pens for livestock.

Then again, servants in the palace were treated as their masters' cattle and horses—when had they ever been regarded as human?

"County Princess, Prince Cheng is inside here."

The guide led Qin Guan through a narrow passageway.

Soon, a slightly more spacious interrogation area came into Qin Guan's view. Lifting her gaze, she immediately saw Yan Qi, Prince Cheng, seated behind a long table. Not far from him, a eunuch in tattered clothes lay on the ground, barely clinging to life.

The eunuch's purplish-black court attire indicated his high rank. The tears in his clothing were from water-soaked whips, with faint traces of blood staining the fabric a dark hue. Qin Guan stood at the doorway, her brow slightly furrowed.

"Your Highness, this old servant truly doesn't know..."

"It's been over a year since it happened... this old servant... has forgotten..."

Yan Qi's expression was icy, his upturned eyes carrying a hint of menace. He let out a cold laugh, "Is it that you don't know, or that you've forgotten? Having served in the palace all these years, what in the Imperial Punishment Office could possibly escape your notice? Or perhaps... you're just afraid of implicating those behind you, so you don't dare speak?"

The old eunuch's face filled with terror at these words, and he shook his head frantically, "No, no! This old servant doesn't know, doesn't know anything!"

The corners of Yan Qi's lips curved upward, but no warmth reached his eyes. "Is that so? Then it seems we must continue with our... hospitality."

With a wave of his hand, two guards from Prince Cheng's residence immediately stepped forward and dragged the old eunuch up. Nearby stood a wooden frame, where the guards efficiently bound him. Another person took a red-hot branding iron and without hesitation pressed it against the old eunuch's shoulder. A sizzling sound was followed by the eunuch's agonized scream.

Only then did Yan Qi turn his gaze to Qin Guan.

He had heard her footsteps before she appeared, but he had wanted to see how Yongci County Princess would react. To his surprise, even this gruesome scene hadn't so much as twitched an eyebrow from Qin Guan.

Feeling both surprised and disappointed, Yan Qi smiled, "When did the County Princess arrive?"

Qin Guan entered the room and performed a slight curtsey, "Greetings, Prince Cheng. I just arrived."

Yan Qi waved his hand and pointed to a stool nearby, "Have a seat."

Qin Guan walked over and sat down, having a clear view of the old eunuch being tortured. The branding iron had left a large burn mark on his body, the smell of burnt fabric and seared flesh particularly pungent. Qin Guan sat without changing expression.

Yan Qi studied her for a moment before smiling, "The County Princess has quite the nerve..."

Qin Guan raised an eyebrow. She had seen far more gruesome and horrific corpses than this. Yet she did feel some discomfort—not from how badly this person was being beaten, but from knowing that the branding iron was being applied to a living, breathing human being."You flatter me, Your Highness. May I ask why you summoned me?"

Yan Qi smiled, his eyes carrying a hint of mischief. "County Princess Yongci's medical skills are unparalleled, and her Corpse Examination techniques are particularly astounding. Not only is she adept at examining corpses, but she also excels at solving cases. She has even become the first woman in the history of the Great Zhou Dynasty to hold an official court position. The case at Prince Jin Manor is not only bizarre but also involved the County Princess personally conducting the Corpse Examination. Therefore, I thought having the County Princess join us in hearing the case might yield unexpected insights. After all, the County Princess must also wish to solve this case as soon as possible, am I right?"

Qin Guan's lips curved slightly. "Since it is Your Highness's command, Qin Guan naturally complies."

Yan Qi narrowed his eyes, sensing that Qin Guan was somewhat unyielding. He chuckled and turned his attention to the old eunuch. A branding iron had been applied, combined with previous whippings, and the man was now delirious with pain. Having once been the one administering torture, he likely never imagined he would suffer such a fate himself. Seeing this, Yan Qi lifted his chin. "Splash him awake."

Though the room was small, it was well-equipped. At Yan Qi's command, a guard immediately doused the old eunuch with cold water to rouse him. Yan Qi stood up and walked over to the old eunuch. "Tell me what you know, and I will spare your life."

The old eunuch's eyes were filled with terror, two streaks of blood marring his face, making the scene all the more horrifying. His lips trembled, but after a long moment, he uttered not a word. A flicker of ruthlessness passed through Yan Qi's eyes. He took a step back and raised his chin again.

Understanding the signal, the guard glanced at the torture instruments nearby, picked up two sharp hooks, and approached the old eunuch. The hooks gleamed coldly in the light, and the old eunuch clearly knew their purpose. Instantly, the fear in his eyes intensified. The guard swung the hooks in his hand and thrust them into the old eunuch's collarbones!

The old eunuch's eyes bulged wide; he could not even scream, only emitting guttural rasps from his throat. Yan Qi stepped forward, gripping the old eunuch's jaw. "Will you talk or not?! Who took Song Xiwen away?! Huh?!"

The old eunuch's neck arched taut like a bowstring. His eyes shifted slowly, fixed on Yan Qi with unmistakable fear. He rasped twice, as if on the verge of speaking, but the next moment, he suddenly clamped his mouth shut and closed his eyes in agony. Soon, a froth of blood seeped from the corners of his lips. Yan Qi's expression changed, and Qin Guan immediately stood up!

As the blood threatened to stain Yan Qi's hand, he quickly stepped back. Qin Guan, however, stepped forward without hesitation, pried open the old eunuch's cheeks, and frowned. "It's poisoned wine."

Since it was poisoned wine, there was no saving him.

Yan Qi clenched his fist, his eyes dark with fury. This old eunuch had actually taken poison and killed himself right before his eyes!

Qin Guan dabbed her finger in the blood, then stepped back, took out a handkerchief to wipe it clean, and tossed the cloth into a nearby brazier. Yan Qi felt somewhat embarrassed by this—he had been careless, allowing someone to die in his presence.

The dead do not speak. Without this man's testimony, achieving his goal would be exceedingly difficult.

Yan Qi stepped back and waved his hand. Two guards dragged the old eunuch's body out of the room.After the body was dragged away, only a faint scent of blood remained in the room. Yan Qi glanced at his personal attendant and asked, "What about the other two?"

The attendant quickly replied, "They're still unconscious and haven't woken up yet."

Qin Guan stood nearby observing, but had gained nothing today. Yan Qi then ordered, "Search them inside and out. I don't want to see a second person commit suicide by poison."

The attendant acknowledged and went to carry out the task. Only then did Yan Qi turn to Qin Guan. "Let's not rush today. Would the princess consort care to speak outside?"

Qin Guan nodded and turned to leave. Stepping out of the Imperial Punishment Office, she took a deep breath.

Walking beside her, Yan Qi said, "The man who just died entered the palace in the 210th year of Great Zhou's calendar. He initially served in the residence of the then Consort Zhao, and was promoted over time. After Consort Zhao passed away, he was transferred to manage the lateral courts in the Household Affairs Department, and later came to the Imperial Punishment Office. Most chief eunuchs in the Imperial Punishment Office are elderly and command some respect. Since his arrival, everyone here has held him in high esteem. With palace regulations being strict in recent years and both internal and external affairs well-regulated, he should be credited with some contribution."

After hearing this, Qin Guan only frowned slightly without showing further reaction. Understanding her silence, Yan Qi raised an eyebrow and continued, "Consort Zhao came from the family of the General Who Supports the State. Although she was never officially named Empress back then, the late Emperor was raised in her palace."

Qin Guan paused mid-step, suddenly understanding Yan Qi's implication.

The late Consort Zhao should have been the grand-aunt of the current Empress Zhao Shuhua. The late Emperor was the son of the late Grand Empress Dowager, but unfortunately, the Grand Empress Dowager was extremely frail and later withdrew from public life. During that period, the late Consort Zhao became the mistress of the Inner Palace and carefully nurtured the late Emperor, who held her in great respect. When arranging a marriage for his most beloved son, he chose the Zhao family's eldest daughter Zhao Shuhua as princess consort. Thus, the Zhao family's influence continued to permeate the imperial inner court.

Yan Qi's lengthy explanation ultimately indicated that the old eunuch was aligned with the Empress and Crown Prince. Under interrogation, the eunuch had remained silent and ultimately chosen such an extreme method as suicide, clearly indicating he had something to hide. If the old eunuch had secrets, then the Empress and Crown Prince must have secrets too.

Qin Guan had long known Yan Qi's summons wasn't with good intentions, but she hadn't expected him to be so candid with her.

"These are all matters of the distant past. What do they have to do with last year's incident?"

Remaining impassive, Qin Guan watched as Yan Qi chuckled ambiguously. "I'd be relieved if the princess consort truly believes that. I've heard from Zheng Baishi and others that the princess consort possesses remarkable courage and unwavering integrity. I'm also aware that the Crown Prince is your brother-in-law. Now that you know these details, do you still wish to continue the investigation?"

Before Qin Guan could respond, Yan Qi added, "Although the Crown Prince hasn't obstructed the investigation, the Imperial Punishment Office has long been thoroughly cleansed. Those few who knew the truth remained tight-lipped, even preferring death. Such are our Crown Prince's methods."

As the scene shifted before Qin Guan's eyes, her thoughts suddenly returned to the beginning of the year.When the three young ladies were successively murdered, Zheng Baishi failed to solve the case and was reprimanded by the emperor, while the Crown Prince was also implicated. All of this was orchestrated by Prince Cheng, who now stood before her. Now that Prince Cheng had taken control of the Prince Jin Manor case, the one causing trouble had shifted to the Crown Prince. Qin Guan found it bitterly amusing—what did justice and legal principles amount to in the face of power?

"What does Your Highness Prince Cheng wish to say? Investigating a case relies on evidence. Empty words without proof only raise suspicions about Your Highness’s ill intentions."

A dark glint flashed in Yan Qi’s phoenix eyes. "The Lady is remarkably composed. Very well, tomorrow morning, we will interrogate the other two individuals. Zheng Baishi and Li Muyun will both be present. Let us see if they can provide anything useful."

This was both intimidation and a test. Since Yan Qi had drawn her into the game, he had no real intention of letting her assist in the investigation.

Qin Guan understood this clearly. She nodded in agreement, having nothing further to say to Yan Qi, and soon took her leave.

Yan Qi stood where he was, watching Qin Guan walk away, a sharp, cold light gleaming in his phoenix eyes.

There were countless women in the world, yet few had ever caught Yan Qi’s attention—or perhaps none ever had. He was a proud son of heaven, lofty and superior. In his world, only men were worthy of competing with him. But now, Qin Guan had made him reconsider. He couldn’t help but recall that scene at the Mortuary Temple. Strictly speaking, that was the first day he had laid eyes on Qin Guan. That day, she had appeared elegant and slender, like a jade-like youth not yet fully grown. She, along with Yan Chi, had made a fool of him!

Yan Qi’s brow furrowed tightly as he remembered how he had once written Qin Guan’s name on the list of potential consorts. But later…

At the time, he had blamed the Crown Prince entirely. But could it be that the one causing trouble wasn’t the Crown Prince after all?

The thought flashed through his mind. Recalling the current predicament of Prince Rui’s household, Yan Qi sneered inwardly. Prince Rui’s household was on the verge of collapse, while Zheng Xincheng from Shuoxi had just delivered good news yesterday. Yan Qi felt a surge of satisfaction. With favorable reports from Shuoxi and the Prince Jin Manor case pinned squarely on the Crown Prince, opportunities were bound to arise.

Buoyed by these thoughts, Yan Qi paid his respects to Feng Lingsu, mounted his horse, and returned to his royal residence.

As soon as he entered the residence, Yan Qi spotted Xiu Zhi lurking suspiciously near a corner not far from the main courtyard. Frowning, he disliked servants wandering about aimlessly, especially in areas where rear court maids were forbidden. Yet, seeing Xiu Zhi reminded him of Qin Xiang. It had been days since he last visited her. Yan Qi beckoned, "You, come here—"

Xiu Zhi’s face lit up with joy, her eyes reddening as she rushed over and knelt before Yan Qi, weeping, "Your Highness, please save our mistress! Today, the princess consort punished her by making her kneel the entire day. She is still kneeling outside the princess consort’s door."

Yan Qi raised an eyebrow, a flicker of impatience in his eyes…

Ever since Feng Chenbi had entered the residence, his rear court had been in constant turmoil.

Yan Qi enjoyed collecting beauties, aspiring to emulate his father’s harem of three thousand. Yet, he detested the chaos and drama in his own household. However, Feng Chenbi’s status was unique. Though he looked down on her, whether out of respect for his maternal grandfather, his mother, or their childhood bond, he could not treat her too harshly.

Yan Qi’s brow furrowed deeply as he strode toward Feng Chenbi’s courtyard.

Xiu Zhi’s eyes brightened, scrambling to her feet and stumbling after Yan Qi.When Feng Chenbi heard that Yan Qi had arrived, she immediately squeezed out two tears. The other servants, understanding the situation, quickly put on mournful expressions. As Yan Qi lifted the curtain and entered, Feng Chenbi’s eyes reddened at the sight of him. "Cousin…"

Her voice was delicate and pleasing, and in an instant, Feng Chenbi wrapped her arms around Yan Qi’s arm. Yan Qi raised an eyebrow, recalling that he hadn’t seen Qin Xiang in the courtyard, and asked, "Why are you crying?"

Feng Chenbi sobbed intermittently, "I know why you’re here, Cousin. You’ve come to speak up for the Ninth Concubine, haven’t you? Today, I couldn’t help but make her kneel in punishment again. Are you here to scold me?"

Yan Qi pursed his lips, feeling somewhat impatient, but he hadn’t expected Feng Chenbi to be so forthright.

Feng Chenbi gazed at Yan Qi with rabbit-like eyes. "Go ahead and scold me if you must, Cousin. I won’t admit I was wrong today. The Ninth Concubine is now part of the royal residence. No matter how much she longs for Loyal Marquis Manor, she can never return, right? Loyal Marquis Manor has risen in status because they produced a Crown Princess, and her mind has become unsettled. I cannot tolerate such insolence…"

Yan Qi raised an eyebrow. "What did she do?"

Feng Chenbi clung to Yan Qi’s arm, subtly pressing her chest against him, and snorted, "Today, the Old Madam of the Earl of Wen Yuan sent an invitation for me to attend their chrysanthemum viewing. I thought of taking her along to see the outside world, but… she actually refused. For no other reason than that the Earl of Wen Yuan’s family is related by marriage to the First Madam of Qin Manor, who was also certain to attend today. She was afraid of running into the First Madam of Qin Manor. Cousin, tell me, what does this mean?"

A daughter of Qin Manor had become a concubine in Prince Cheng’s royal residence. Qin Xiang herself was disgraced, and Loyal Marquis Manor was even more humiliated. Feng Chenbi had intended to make Hu Shi lose face, but who knew Qin Xiang would be so uncooperative!

Yan Qi frowned. In this matter, he couldn’t blame Feng Chenbi.

Hadn’t his own intentions been the same when he took Qin Xiang?

"Where is she?"

At his question, Feng Chenbi snorted again and said, "I sent her back. She pretended to faint after kneeling for just half an hour. Last time was the same. She’s full of tricks—I never know if she’s genuine or not. I had her taken to the side room to rest for a while before sending her back to her own courtyard. Cousin, where do you think her loyalties lie? Can we trust her?"

Feng Chenbi looked at Yan Qi with an innocent expression, stirring the doubts in his heart.

Feng Chenbi was his princess consort, bound to him by blood ties. No one wished for his success more than she did.

As for Qin Xiang… she was connected by blood to Loyal Marquis Manor…

Seeing Yan Qi lost in thought, Feng Chenbi quickly blinked her eyes and pulled him toward the inner chamber. After all, they had not been married long, and with Feng Chenbi looking so pitiable, Yan Qi half-resistingly stayed with her.

At the same time, Qin Xiang was in her own room, furious. Xiu Zhi anxiously urged, "Concubine, please don’t act like this. The prince has been bewitched by that vixen, the princess consort. You must stay calm!"

Qin Xiang smashed another teacup, her breathing growing increasingly ragged.

Feng Chenbi! What a formidable Feng Chenbi!Since Feng Chenbi entered Prince Cheng's residence, Yan Qi had been visiting her less and less frequently. Sometimes when he did come, he wouldn't stay the night. It had been a long time since she last shared a bed with Yan Qi. If this continued, how could she possibly conceive a child?!

Without a child, relying solely on Yan Qi's meager affection for her, she could never establish her footing in the royal residence.

This time, Qin Xiang deeply felt the disparity between a legal wife and a concubine. A flicker of regret quickly passed through her mind, but she shook her head vehemently—no, she had no way back now. She couldn't afford regrets.

...

Three days had passed, and the large contingent returning from Cangheng Mountain arrived back in the capital.

The funeral arrangements at Prince Rui's residence had not yet been dismantled. Yan Li accompanied Yan Chi through the estate gates, sighing as he said, "Seventh Brother, please accept my condolences."

Yan Li had been keeping Yan Chi company these past few days. Yan Chi understood Yan Li's intentions and forced a faint smile.

Yan Li smiled bitterly, "Seventh Brother, please don't smile. Your smile looks particularly unsettling right now..."

Yan Chi shook his head helplessly. Yan Li still felt somewhat uneasy—Yan Chi had always been reserved with his emotions, never voicing his sorrows no matter how much grief weighed on his heart. Yan Li even thought this was more painful than his own experience of never having known his father. When mentioning Prince Gong now, Yan Li felt no emotional stir within himself.

"Seventh Brother, rest properly for a few days. Don't concern yourself with court affairs for now."

Yan Li expressed genuine concern, feeling that Yan Chi's silent brooding appeared even more heartbreaking.

Yan Chi waved his hand, "It's not that serious."

Yan Li smiled wryly, uncertain whether to console or encourage. After some thought, he nodded—indeed, his seventh brother wasn't so fragile. Life had to go on despite losing his father. This reflection made Yan Li think of his own mother—if his mother were to pass away...

A tremor ran through Yan Li's heart, and he quickly drew closer to Yan Chi.

It was already afternoon. After freshening up at his residence, Yan Chi planned to enter the palace. Yan Li was surprised—Yan Chi hadn't slept these past few days, his eyes now bloodshot. What matter was so urgent?

Yan Chi offered no explanation, so Yan Li had no choice but to accompany him into the palace.

Yan Chi's palace visit was naturally to request an audience with the Empress Dowager. Arriving at the Longevity and Health Palace, the Empress Dowager, her eyes slightly reddened, clung to Yan Chi's hand.

"Your father guarded the northwest for the Great Zhou his entire life. The Emperor's posthumous honors have been conferred. Now that he rests in peace, you must rally yourself. Only then will his teachings to you not be in vain."

Yan Chi nodded naturally, "Grandmother, you've been unwell. Has Yongci County Princess not examined you?"

The Empress Dowager smiled, "How could she not have? She did examine me... she even prescribed the medicine..."

Speaking of Qin Guan, the Empress Dowager hesitated, "I originally wanted you two to marry sooner, but now..."

Yan Chi seemed to have been waiting for these words, "Father has been gone for over a month. He must have been concerned about my marriage even in his final moments. I don't think we need to wait that long. If Imperial Grandmother agrees, I wish to marry after the mourning period ends, so Father may rest peacefully in the afterlife."

The mourning period meant a hundred days. This way, Yan Chi and Qin Guan could marry by year's end. The Empress Dowager was overjoyed hearing this. She tightened her grip on Yan Chi's hand, "Why wouldn't I agree? As long as you're willing. You're right—your father passed without seeing you married. An early marriage would comfort his spirit. Good! I'll have the Imperial Observatory select an auspicious date for you immediately!"A faint smile curved Yan Chi's lips. The Empress Dowager could tell he was genuinely happy and gently patted his head. "You silly child, I know what's on your mind. Don't worry, you'll certainly get your wish."

Having lost his father, Yan Chi was now all alone in the world. The Empress Dowager pitied his solitude and privately wished for him to marry Qin Guan soon. With this marriage settled, her own heart would be at ease. Watching from the side, Yan Li immediately understood why Yan Chi had been so eager to enter the palace.

...

Though Qin Guan knew Yan Chi had returned, she felt it inappropriate to rashly visit Prince Rui's royal residence, uncertain whether there were still people from the Household Affairs Department there.

Yet early the next morning, the Empress Dowager's decree arrived at Loyal Marquis Manor.

When Qin Guan arrived at the front courtyard, she saw Yuan Qing speaking with Qin Shu and his wife. Though Qin Shu wore a smile, Qin Guan could clearly see it was somewhat forced.

Yuan Qing said, "The Empress Dowager truly cares for the Crown Prince. They are a match made in heaven, and with this early arrangement, Her Majesty can rest assured. Marquis, you may not know, but the Empress Dowager's health has been declining recently. Settling this matter has brought her great joy..."As he spoke, Yuan Qing noticed Qin Guan and hurriedly smiled, 'This old servant pays respects to the princess and offers congratulations—' He handed over the imperial decree, 'The Imperial Observatory has calculated that the tenth day of the twelfth lunar month is an auspicious date.' This old servant congratulates the princess."

The tenth day of the twelfth month—less than three months away.

Yan Chi had returned to the capital yesterday, and today the wedding date was already set. It was evident Yan Chi must have taken some action upon his return.

Qin Guan promptly received the decree and understood upon reading it, "I shall enter the palace shortly to express gratitude for this grace."

After exchanging a few more auspicious words, Yuan Qing departed with his attendants.

Once Yuan Qing left, the smiles on Qin Shu and Hu Shi's faces faded. Clearly, they did not approve of Qin Guan's marriage being settled, but with the imperial decree issued, what could they do?

"Oh my, the wedding date is finally set. Now we must make thorough preparations for Guan'er," Hu Shi said with belated cheerfulness.

Qin Shu sighed, "At this point, we can only prepare properly. If nothing else, as long as Guan'er is happy after marrying, it will be worthwhile."

Recalling the Crown Prince's words, Qin Shu felt as if his heart were bleeding as he spoke.

Qin Guan smiled faintly, "Thank you, Uncle and Aunt. I must trouble you with my wedding arrangements."

Hu Shi quickly responded, "Don't worry, Guan'er. We will ensure everything is perfectly arranged for your glorious marriage."

Qin Guan said sincerely, "I am not the Eighth Sister. Aunt need only follow the precedent set for Qin Shuang's wedding. With the date near the year's end, you must be very busy. Please do not go to extra trouble for my sake."

Hu Shi repeatedly waved her hands and assured Qin Guan she would not treat the matter lightly before letting her leave.

After Qin Guan departed, Hu Shi looked bitterly at Qin Shu, "Should the Marquis enter the palace?"

Qin Shu sighed, "Yes, I must go to the palace..."

Qin Shu left immediately, while Hu Shi felt uneasy.

...

When Qin Shu arrived at the Eastern Palace, Yan Che had already learned of the Empress Dowager's decree. Qin Shu could only say helplessly, "Your Highness may not know, but Guan'er is quite satisfied with this marriage. From what I see, even if the Prince Rui's household were to fall, or something were to happen to His Highness Yan Chi, she would not change her mind." Glancing at Yan Che's expression, he added, "Currently, the northwest case hasn't implicated Prince Rui's royal residence, has it? Losing one Prince Rui shouldn't be a major issue..."

Yan Che remained silent, making Qin Shu somewhat anxious. Just as he thought Yan Che might be angered by this, Yan Che spoke calmly, "In that case, the Marquis should return and prepare well for the wedding."

Qin Shu was startled but quickly collected himself and nodded repeatedly.

Seeing Yan Che had no more to say, Qin Shu took his leave. Reflecting on Yan Che's earlier demeanor, he felt the Crown Prince wasn't as angry as he had imagined, yet there was an unusually profound sense of pressure.Qin Shu couldn't quite grasp the meaning for a moment, so he turned to go see his daughter.

Upon learning that Qin Shu had entered the palace today to inform the Crown Prince that Qin Guan and Yan Chi's wedding date had been set, Qin Chaoyu felt a strange sensation in her heart. When she further learned that Yan Che appeared quite calm, her unease grew stronger. She didn't ask too many questions, knowing that Yan Che disliked her inquiring about court affairs, and quickly had Qin Shu take his leave.

After pondering for a moment, Qin Chaoyu prepared tea and snacks and headed toward the side hall where Yan Che was.

As soon as she entered the side hall, Qin Chaoyu froze.

Yan Che stood sideways by the window. Though no anger was visible on his face, the profound loneliness emanating from him was impossible to conceal...

...

When Qin Guan returned to Pine Breeze Courtyard, Fuling whispered, "Miss, the Marquis and his wife don't seem pleased."

Qin Guan lifted her chin slightly. While Prince Rui was alive, this marriage would have been the best choice, but now that Prince Rui was gone, the marriage had become optional. Naturally, Qin Shu and Hu Shi didn't view it favorably, and... perhaps there were other concerns from the Eastern Palace. Qin Shu and Hu Shi's intentions clearly went against hers, yet she and Yan Chi had the Empress Dowager's support.

Looking at the imperial decree in her hand, Qin Guan felt reassured.

After carefully reading every word on the decree, Qin Guan suddenly felt a strong desire to see Yan Chi.

Where might he be at this moment?

After some thought, Qin Guan changed her clothes and went out.

The carriage left the Marquis residence, and Qin Guan headed straight for Prince Rui's residence. After a moment's consideration, she had Baiying enter through the back gate of the residence. When they reached the back gate, the mourning lanterns under the eaves had not yet been taken down.

Qin Guan let out a breath and told Baiying to knock on the door.

After the knock, the door opened after a short while. An unfamiliar guard dressed entirely in black looked at Qin Guan and Baiying, his eyes shifting thoughtfully. It seemed he had realized something, and he immediately bowed in salute. "Greetings, Princess."

After saying this, he stepped aside. "Please come in, Princess. His Highness is discussing matters in the front."

Qin Guan glanced at the man. He appeared to be in his twenties, with a square face and strikingly clear, bright eyes. As she walked inside, Qin Guan asked, "You are..."

Yu Qi quickly nodded. "This humble one is Yu Qi, formerly His Highness's personal aide."

Qin Guan's heart stirred. An aide... to refer to himself as such meant he was from the Northwest Frontier Army!

It had been over a month since Prince Rui's incident, and finally, someone from the Northwest had arrived in the capital.

Qin Guan nodded but didn't head toward the main courtyard. "I'll wait for him at the waterside pavilion."

Yu Qi said nothing, respectfully following behind Qin Guan until he had escorted her to the waterside pavilion before taking his leave.

Qin Guan was very familiar with the waterside pavilion and sat down to wait. Before long, footsteps sounded from outside. Qin Guan stood up and immediately saw Yan Chi's figure flash into view.

A faint light sparkled in Qin Guan's eyes, but when she saw the redness in Yan Chi's eyes, her heart ached with concern.

Yan Chi walked up to Qin Guan, the corners of his lips curving slightly. "Has the decree reached the Marquis residence?"

Qin Guan nodded. "Yes, the tenth day of the twelfth month."

Yan Chi took Qin Guan's hand and sat down with her. "Last night, I entered the palace and asked Her Majesty to set the date. There are still three months left."

Qin Guan then said, "I thought it would be next year. Given that we're still in mourning, is this appropriate?""Once the mourning period is over will be fine." Yan Chi gazed into Qin Guan's eyes. What he didn't say was that if they didn't set the wedding date soon, even their marriage might face unforeseen changes. His father was gone; he absolutely couldn't lose Qin Guan now!

Yan Chi gently brushed Qin Guan's cheek. "Do you have concerns?"

Qin Guan quickly shook her head. "Not for myself, but for you. Right now..."

Yan Chi smiled. "Nothing is a concern now. It's just perfect—I'll be free next and can properly prepare for our wedding."

Qin Guan looked at Yan Chi questioningly. Yan Chi explained, "The Emperor has spoken, permitting me to temporarily step back from managing affairs at the Ministry of Justice."

What did this mean...? Qin Guan frowned deeply. Was the Emperor trying to sideline Yan Chi, leaving him with truly nothing to do?

Yet Yan Chi's expression remained quite relaxed. He squeezed her hand. "This is a good thing."

No sooner had he spoken than Yu Qi's figure appeared outside again, hesitantly saying, "Your Highness, Master Qi still has matters to report. He requests your presence for a detailed discussion..."

Yan Chi raised an eyebrow. Qin Guan promptly nudged him. "It's fine, you should go."

Yan Chi glanced at Qin Guan, then suddenly took her hand. "Come with me."

Qin Guan was startled. She knew that whoever Yan Chi was going to meet now must be a trusted confidant, and the matters discussed would likely be confidential. For her to tag along like this felt entirely inappropriate.

But Yan Chi was insistent. "Come with me."

Holding Qin Guan's hand, Yan Chi walked out. He didn't let go even when they saw Yu Qi, who kept his head bowed, eyes fixed downward, not daring to utter a word. Yan Chi led Qin Guan all the way to the main courtyard.

Upon entering the courtyard, Qin Guan saw a middle-aged man, around forty years old, standing before the main hall. The man wore a simple blue robe without any adornments, his demeanor refined and unconstrained, carrying an air of natural ease.

However, his gaze when he looked at Qin Guan was deep and penetrating.

"Master, this is the Yongci County Princess." Yan Chi approached and introduced her to Qi Yu. Qi Yu had been observing Qin Guan since he saw her. Now, he cupped his hands and bowed. "I pay my respects to the County Princess."

Anyone addressed as "Master" by Yan Chi was someone Qin Guan would not treat lightly. She returned a slight curtsey, offering a respectful nod.

A hint of relaxation flickered in Qi Yu's eyes, but he turned to Yan Chi. "Your Highness, this humble one..."

Yan Chi gestured toward the hall. "Let's speak inside."

Yan Chi took the seat of honor. Qin Guan sat to his left. After a moment's hesitation, Qi Yu sat opposite Qin Guan. Yan Chi looked at Qi Yu. "Master, speak plainly—"

Qi Yu's expression was dark and heavy, clearly reluctant to have Qin Guan hear these words. But knowing his heir apparent's temperament, he pressed his lips together tightly and said, "Generals Chu and Huo have already been stripped of their military authority and are detained. Their Left Second and Left Third Battalions are currently leaderless. Your Highness knows their nature—left like this, disturbances are highly likely. Lin Xugui holds the Emperor's decree this time. Not only can he mobilize troops from Liangzhou and Cangzhou, but he could even call upon the Northern Garrison Army. Right now, they're waiting for us to fall into disarray ourselves. Zheng Xincheng has old ties with Lin Xugui and will certainly cooperate with him. If the Divine Strategy Battalion falls into Lin Xugui's hands, none of the brothers within will be spared."

Qi Yu's voice grew heavier as he spoke. Yan Chi sat in the host's seat, his face like still water, showing no ripple of emotion.Master Qi continued, "When the prince was here, everyone was united as one. Now that the prince is gone, Your Highness is the hope of the Northwest Frontier Army. Lin Xugui's purpose in going there is to disband the Northwest Frontier Army. Whoever takes over afterward will be someone the emperor trusts. But once that happens, the Northwest Frontier Army will no longer be the Northwest Frontier Army. If the Rong people invade when spring comes, the northwest will surely fall."

"The prince devoted himself to the northwest for over twenty years, and now it's finally taking shape. If the northwest falls, all of that will be lost—the common people who relied on the prince, and the soldiers who remained loyal to the prince and Your Highness..."

Yan Chi narrowed his phoenix eyes slightly. "Their loyalty is to Great Zhou, not to me or my father."

Master Qi glanced at Qin Guan, realizing he had spoken out of turn, and smiled wryly. "Yes, Your Highness is right. But when it comes to loyalty to Great Zhou, who could surpass the prince and Your Highness? All these years... That's why those lads were willing to stay in the northwest with the prince. Matters of life and death in battle—if not for the prince and Your Highness, how would they even have the means to be loyal to Great Zhou?"

Master Qi began with earnest words, but now he spoke with heartfelt concern. "This humble one understands Your Highness's thoughts, but... but I truly feel it shouldn't be this way. It really shouldn't..."

Yan Chi looked at Master Qi calmly. "Then what does the Master suggest I do?"

Struck by this question, Master Qi was at a loss for words. Seeing this, Yan Chi sighed. "I understand what you're saying, Master. But at this point, my limited strength is like a spark. The northwest is a thousand miles away—it's beyond my reach."

Master Qi hurriedly said, "But... but a spark can still start a prairie fire, Your Highness..."

A shadow crossed Yan Chi's eyes. "My father's tragedy caught all of us by surprise. You've returned safely from the northwest, Master. You should rest and recover first. We can discuss matters again after you've calmed your nerves."

Though his words held little anger, they left Master Qi stunned.

His face shifted between pale and ashen, and it took him a long moment to grasp Yan Chi's meaning—Yan Chi was saying he had panicked...

"This humble one... yes, I understand..."

Master Qi's expression was a mix of indignation and shame. Yan Chi glanced at Yu Qi, who understood and stepped forward. "Master Qi, please come with me. Rest well before discussing matters with His Highness again."

Master Qi stood up, a thin layer of sweat already beading on his forehead. He nodded. "Very well. Your Highness, I take my leave."

Yan Chi gave a noncommittal nod. Master Qi sighed and turned to leave.

Qin Guan watched Master Qi depart and also sighed.

"Master Qi was the most trusted strategist by your father's side. He served him for twenty years and was one of his military advisors. He isn't usually like this. All these years, your father never lost a battle against the Rong enemies—Master Qi contributed greatly to that."

But now that Prince Rui was gone, even this chief strategist had become flustered.

Though what Master Qi had said was indeed urgent, his tone had been noticeably pressing, intending to urge Yan Chi to stabilize the situation in the northwest. While his intentions were good, he had clearly left his heart and soul in the northwest, paying no attention to the developments in the capital.

"Even if everyone else is in disarray, as long as you remain steady, there is hope for the northwest."

Qin Guan's words directly voiced what was in Yan Chi's heart. Yan Chi stood up, walked over, and took Qin Guan's hand. "Do you have so much faith in me? What if I abandon the northwest? After all, the current situation is unclear—I might not even be able to protect myself."Qin Guan also stood up, "You won't. There lies the prince's legacy, the shared beliefs between you and the prince. Your return to the capital was forced upon you back then, but you would never abandon Shuoxi..."

Yan Chi gently rubbed Qin Guan's palm, his heart burning with warmth, "Aren't you going to advise caution?"

If Yan Chi truly remained unwilling and still had ambitions, it would be a matter of life and death. But for Qin Guan, hadn't the obsession in her heart always been an equally uncertain, impossible endeavor?

Qin Guan clasped Yan Chi's hand in return, "I won't advise caution. I believe in you."

Yan Chi couldn't suppress the surge of emotion in his heart. He had been doubted by many, yet trusted by many as well, but Qin Guan's trust at this moment felt so different, so soul-stirring. He pulled Qin Guan into his embrace, "With such a wife, what more could a husband ask for?"

Hearing this, Qin Guan's cheeks grew warm. They weren't even married yet—where did this "wife" come from?