Fuling never expected that while barging into the flower garden to search for someone, she would instead catch sight of Qin Shu accompanying a handsome man in a blue robe admiring the flowers. Fuling had only seen Yan Che from a distance during the trip to Wei Mountain and on Qin Chaoyu's wedding day. On both occasions, Yan Che had been wearing the Crown Prince's Ceremonial Robe, appearing majestic and aloof in his splendid attire. Now, dressed in ordinary clothes, his entire demeanor seemed somewhat different.
Being forgetful by nature, Fuling only found him vaguely familiar at that moment and couldn't recognize who he was. Appearing abruptly before Qin Shu and Yan Che, she panicked first, pausing for a moment before bowing to Qin Shu.
"G-Greetings, Lord Marquis—"
She was panting heavily from running, her hair slightly disheveled, and after bowing, she began to tremble.
Qin Shu was the head of the household and, moreover, the Loyal and Brave Marquis of Great Zhou. Although she had returned to the capital with Qin Guan nearly a year ago, Qin Shu had never spoken to her kindly. The sight of him alone made Fuling fearful.
Qin Shu already harbored some suspicions in his heart, and upon seeing Fuling, his anger became barely containable. Frowning, he spoke to her harshly, "Shameless and undisciplined! How has your young lady taught you?!"
Yan Che had initially paid no mind to the young girl who had suddenly burst in, but upon hearing Qin Shu's words, he couldn't help but feel a stir of thought.
Your young lady...
Qin Chaoyu had married, and the other young lady of the Qin clan had also wed.
Now, in the Marquis' residence, only one young lady of the Qin family remained.
Yan Che glanced at Fuling and suddenly said coldly, "How dare you not bow upon seeing This Crown Prince?"
Qin Shu inwardly cursed at this turn of events. Yan Che was not one to speak much; his status was lofty, so why would he bother with a mere servant girl? Qin Shu had intended to scold her briefly and make her disappear, but he hadn't expected Yan Che to speak up.
With Yan Che having spoken, Qin Shu found himself at a loss—unable to plead for Fuling nor continue reprimanding her. Fuling, bewildered, glanced at Yan Che, her gaze clearly questioning who he was...
Qin Shu frowned, his anger flaring, "This is His Highness the Crown Prince! Why haven't you bowed yet?!"
With a "thud," Fuling knelt down. "G-Greetings, Your Highness the Crown Prince... This humble servant... this humble servant did not know of Your Highness's arrival. Please punish this humble servant—"
Fuling's heart leaped into her throat. The Crown Prince! It was actually the Crown Prince! No wonder he had seemed somewhat familiar! But she had assumed he was just some young high-ranking official—how could she have imagined it was the Crown Prince?!
Fuling was both terrified and regretful. If only she had let the young lady administer a couple of acupuncture needles earlier!
Why did she have to run out?!
Fuling's face twisted in misery, her eyes glistening with tears—she was truly on the verge of crying!
She had no idea how this Crown Prince would punish her!
"What is your name?"
Fuling was taken aback, instinctively stealing a glance at Yan Che. When her eyes met his gloomy gaze, it felt like a thunderbolt struck her, and she immediately lowered her eyes. "This humble servant is... is called Fuling..."
Fuling... it was a medicinal herb. It suited her well.
Yan Che, his expression stern, studied Fuling, unsure why he was making such a fuss. She was merely a servant—what could he possibly do to her? Besides, Qin Shu was present. Yan Che pressed his lips together and remained silent.
Qin Shu then said, "My apologies for the embarrassment, Your Highness. The servants in this residence lack manners and have offended you."Yan Che glanced at Fuling once more. Qin Shu sighed helplessly, "Perhaps we should have someone take her away and properly teach her some manners."
Hearing this, Yan Che remained silent, almost as if waiting for something. Qin Shu's eyes darted thoughtfully, his brow furrowing tighter, while Fuling broke into a cold sweat from fear, her hands beginning to tremble.
After a moment, Yan Che finally waved his hand. "Marquis, handle this as you see fit. It's of little consequence."
Qin Shu breathed a sigh of relief but couldn't shake a strange feeling. Just as he was about to dismiss Fuling, he looked up and saw Qin Guan hurrying over from a distance. Her face was marked with clear urgency—she must have just received the news. Yet Qin Guan had no idea Yan Che was here. When she saw Qin Shu and Yan Che standing together, her surprise deepened even further!
"Greetings to the Crown Prince—"
Qin Guan glanced at Fuling. "Uncle—"
Qin Shu studied Qin Guan, then cast a sidelong glance at Yan Che. The peculiar feeling in his heart grew stronger, for he noticed that ever since Qin Guan appeared, Yan Che's gaze had fixed directly on her. This...
"No need for formalities, Lady Jun."
Yan Che spoke, his tone noticeably lighter.
Qin Shu, "..."
Qin Guan had come for Fuling's sake and immediately said, "Fuling is my servant. I don't know if she has offended the Crown Prince or my uncle. If she has been disrespectful, I beg Your Highness to be magnanimous."
Fuling looked at Qin Guan with tear-filled eyes, overwhelmed with gratitude! Her young mistress had finally come to rescue her!
Yan Che frowned. "It's nothing. There's no blame for those who didn't know."
Qin Guan relaxed. Ignoring Qin Shu's complicated gaze, she pulled Fuling to her feet and said, "In that case, I won't disturb..."
"Where is Xiao Jiu's golden finch?"
Yan Che suddenly interrupted Qin Guan's attempt to take her leave. At these words, both Qin Guan and Fuling's expressions changed.
Especially Fuling, who, having just been frightened, made no effort to conceal her reaction.
Even Qin Shu frowned. He knew about the incident where Mo Yi had crushed the Ninth Prince's bird to death.
Qin Guan quickly lowered her eyes. "That golden finch has fully recovered from its injuries and has already flown away."
Qin Shu breathed a sigh of relief, but his gaze toward Qin Guan grew even more complicated.
Yet Yan Che looked at Fuling. "You tell me. When did it fly away?"
Fuling gasped and looked up, her face pale and panicked, her eyes darting nervously in all directions. Her expression clearly betrayed a guilty conscience, and Yan Che's demeanor instantly shifted.
He turned to Qin Guan. "It seems there are some hidden circumstances here that you find inconvenient to disclose to me."
Yan Che stared straight at Qin Guan. She didn't understand why the Crown Prince was suddenly so fixated on Yan Sui's bird and hesitated, unsure how to respond. Qin Shu, standing nearby, gave a bitter smile. "Your Highness, to be frank, the Marquis's residence did not handle this matter well."
Yan Che turned his gaze to Qin Shu, who said helplessly, "That bird is actually dead."
"Dead?!" Yan Che's voice instantly turned heavy.
Qin Shu found it strange. The Ninth Prince had never been valued in the palace—what was so special about his bird?
Originally, they had decided to conceal the matter simply to avoid trouble. If Yan Che hadn't pursued it, that would have been the end of it. But now that Yan Che had noticed something amiss, there was no need to keep it from him—after all, it wasn't a major issue.Qin Shu thought this way and continued with a bitter smile, "Yes, it's dead. Your Highness knowing about this is enough. I hope Your Highness won't reveal it to the Ninth Prince. Guan'er pities the Ninth Prince for his young age and fears he would be heartbroken if he knew, so she never told him."
Yan Che's face turned icy, and after a long while, he asked in a faint voice, "How did it die?"
Qin Shu coughed lightly, "It was... dropped to death... by a careless little maid."
In the distance, Qin Guan frowned, her expression also quite unpleasant. Yan Che looked at Qin Shu, then at Qin Guan, the anger in his heart barely contained. He had thought the golden finch was living happily and freely in Qin Guan's care, and he never intended to let Qin Guan know the bird originally belonged to him. This was a secret connection between them, known only to himself—a solace he occasionally drew from his unrequited feelings. Yet, he never expected the finch had long been dead, this secret bond severed without his knowledge.
Seeing Yan Che remain silent for so long, Qin Guan also said, "Please, Your Highness, do not inform the Ninth Prince of this matter."
Qin Guan's tone was full of pity, as if she deeply sympathized with Yan Sui, fearing he would be grieved and saddened if he knew.
A sense of absurd bitterness rose in Yan Che's heart. The one who should truly be sad and heartbroken is right before you, yet you remain unaware, even urging him to keep silent and not let that little child Yan Sui know...
Yan Che's chest was filled with bitterness and an anger with no one to direct at. After a long pause, he finally nodded. He didn't even ask for the details of how the finch was dropped to death, only saying in a deep voice, "You... are indeed very good to Yan Sui."
After saying this, Yan Che had no more interest in admiring the flowers. Looking at Qin Guan again, he felt she was as distant as if separated by a hundred thousand miles, and his dignity would never allow him to explain even a single word more.
Yan Che exhaled, his face cold as he said, "I've had enough flower viewing. I shall return to the palace now."
With these words, Yan Che turned and left. Qin Shu was somewhat surprised, unable to understand the source of Yan Che's anger.
He glanced at Qin Guan once more before hurriedly chasing after him.
Once they had left, Fuling finally felt she could breathe again. "Miss... this servant was wrong... I've caused trouble for you... I'll go back now, you can poke me with as many needles as you want... sob sob..."
Qin Guan found Yan Che's earlier expression somewhat strange but shook her head after a moment. She lightly tapped Fuling's forehead a few times. "Before, you complained that I never brought you into the palace. With your temperament, wouldn't you just cause trouble!"
Fuling's eyes reddened, "This servant will never dare say such things again. I'm only suited to staying in the courtyard, going nowhere. Miss, will the Marquis send someone to punish me?"
Qin Guan glanced in the direction Qin Shu had left and sighed, "Probably not."
She turned to head back, saying, "These next few days, everyone in our courtyard should be extra cautious."
After all, they had just offended Qin Shu and now crossed paths with Yan Che.
...
...
Once inside the carriage, Yan Che's face completely darkened.
Thinking of Qin Shu's indifferent expression and Qin Guan's overflowing pity for Yan Sui, his heart grew colder by the inch. He closed his eyes, opened them, then closed them again. After several repetitions, his expression finally calmed somewhat.
He was the Crown Prince of Great Zhou. If others were to know he was so enraged over a mere finch, they would surely laugh their heads off.His mother, the Empress, had told him more than once that restraint was the finest quality a person could possess, and concealing everything beneath a calm facade was a necessary skill for those in power. Clearly, he still hadn’t mastered it.
Song Xiwen’s body had appeared under baffling circumstances, and Kunning Palace was the first to be implicated. At this moment, he had no room for melancholy or sentimentality, nor should he provoke anything over such a minor matter—unable, unwise, and unworthy.
Yet a crack had formed in his heart, and another version of himself seemed to be sneering mockingly at him.
Yan Che thought to himself: give him the time it took to drink two cups of tea—from Loyal Marquis Manor to Zhenghua Gate. Once he passed through Zhenghua Gate, all the turmoil in his heart would settle into calm. Behind those towering palace walls, more important matters awaited him.
Yan Che remained silent the entire journey. The attendants following him sensed the Crown Prince’s somber mood and dared not speak a word.
As the carriage entered Zhenghua Gate and emerged from beneath the dark, shadowy archway, Yan Chi straightened his back, transforming himself back into the Crown Prince. His expression cold, his brows stern, anyone who saw him would perceive an inscrutable, imposing figure.
Some habits, once formed, were hard to break—like his demeanor, which clung to him like a mask worn for so long that even when he wished to see his true self, he found it impossible to remove. He enjoyed supreme honor and privilege, yet it was in moments like these that he felt profoundly sorrowful.
"Your Highness, shall we return to the Eastern Palace?"
Yan Che snapped out of his thoughts. "No, I’m going to see Mother—"
The attendants acknowledged the order, and the Crown Prince’s carriage proceeded toward Kunning Palace.
Before reaching Kunning Palace, Yan Che spotted Yan Sui emerging from the palace gates. The young eunuch beside Yan Sui carried a cloth bag, its shape suggesting it held brushes, ink, paper, and inkstones. Yan Sui, toddling on short legs, walked out with an innocent, bewildered expression. Upon seeing Yan Che, he visibly shrank back nervously, then bowed his head in greeting. "Greetings, Your Highness the Crown Prince."
They were brothers, yet now, aside from Yan Zhen, no one called him "Elder Brother Crown Prince" anymore.
As long as Yan Che remained silent, Yan Sui didn’t dare lift his head. A sudden impulse surged within Yan Che—what expression would Yan Sui make if he told him now that the golden canary had died?
A strange sense of satisfaction flickered in Yan Che’s heart, but he quickly came to his senses and smiled wryly.
Was he really contending with a child? He must be losing his mind!
"What are you doing at Kunning Palace?"
Yan Sui hunched his shoulders slightly. "I came to show Mother the calligraphy I practiced."
Yan Sui had started his studies. At just over five years old, it was said he could barely write a few simple characters. At that age, Yan Che had already been forced by the Empress to memorize lengthy classics.
Yan Che gave a noncommittal "Hmm" and stepped past Yan Sui into Kunning Palace.
Zhao Shuhua hadn’t expected Yan Che to visit at this hour. She smiled and said, "Weren’t you supposed to be out of the palace? Why are you back so early?"
Yan Che did his best to suppress all emotion and glanced at the others present. Understanding his meaning, Zhao Shuhua tilted her chin slightly, and the maids filed out of the room. "Well? Is there something you wish to discuss?"
Yan Che said, "Mother, why did you have Song Xiwen killed back then?"
The smile on Zhao Shuhua’s lips faded. "Today, did you go to see Qin Shu, or Zheng Baishi?""Qin Shu." Yan Che answered readily. Whenever his mother asked, he rarely remained silent.
Zhao Shuhua let out a derisive laugh. "I knew it. If it were Zheng Baishi, he wouldn't dare ask. This is the drawback of noble families - just a little favor makes them entertain grander ambitions."
Turning her gaze, Zhao Shuhua spoke with measured deliberation, "As for Song Xiwen... if he refuses to appreciate favors, then have him killed."
"Mother—"
His mother always had her reasons for everything she did.
Such words as "kill him if he refuses to appreciate favors" clearly didn't match his mother's usual style.
Zhao Shuhua looked at Yan Che. "Che'er, does the reason matter? With Prince Jin's incident, this person is the only witness. Naturally, his death serves us better than his survival. My only regret is having used Zhu Yucheng for this matter."
Yan Che felt an indescribable sense of helplessness. His mother was accustomed to controlling everything and habitually concealed all darkness from him. Clearly, this wasn't the answer he was waiting for. "Mother, although Wang Han has escaped, Prince Cheng might uncover other matters. The Wanxi affair cannot be repeated."
Zhao Shuhua looked at Yan Che and smiled. "I understand what you mean. Rest assured, I know what I'm doing. As long as Wang Han remains uncaptured, everything remains simple."
Seeing Zhao Shuhua's expression, Yan Che knew she wouldn't reveal last year's details to him and fell silent.
After observing him for a moment, Zhao Shuhua's heart softened somewhat. "Have you visited your sister?"
Yan Che looked up and nodded after a pause. "I visited her the day before yesterday."
Zhao Shuhua sighed. "Visit her more often."
Yan Che hesitated, words caught in his throat. "Mother, actually..."
Zhao Shuhua raised her hand. "Che'er, don't be soft-hearted. In your position, compassion is a fatal flaw. When you eventually ascend the throne and hold the world in your hands, you may afford a trace of mercy - that would be the people's blessing. But now, you cannot retreat. I will arrange the best for your sister. She is a princess of the royal family, bound by her own destiny."
Yan Che swallowed with difficulty. "Yes... your son understands."
After a pause, Yan Che continued, "Regarding this matter, Father isn't entirely satisfied..."
"Trust me, your father won't pursue these matters too closely." Zhao Shuhua paused before continuing, "Let Prince Cheng make his fuss. You need do nothing. As long as you remain the Heir Apparent, he cannot create significant waves. If he truly had nerve, he would raise troops in rebellion. Should that day come, I would regard him more highly."
Yan Che's eyes widened. For some reason, his mother's words had become increasingly alarming lately - talk of him ascending the throne, raising troops in rebellion... If such words reached his father's ears, he couldn't imagine how his father would react.
"Mother, please be cautious with your words. Even within Kunning Palace, it's not entirely safe."
Zhao Shuhua smiled, completely unconcerned. "If I cannot speak freely in my own palace within the entire imperial compound, then I would have been devoured to the bone over these years."
Yan Che looked at Zhao Shuhua with unspoken words. Zhao Shuhua raised an eyebrow. "Any other questions?"
Pressing his lips together, Yan Che finally said, "Mother... why was Shen Yi ultimately implicated in Prince Jin's case last year? Although he held different views from the mainstream opinion at court, it shouldn't have amounted to shielding misconduct..."Zhao Shuhua narrowed her eyes, sensing something unusual about Yan Che today.
Yet she didn't voice her observation, merely saying, "Shen Yi... might just be an accident."
Her words were vague, so Yan Che cut straight to the point, "Does Mother think Li Muyun is someone who can be used?"
Zhao Shuhua's gaze darkened, clearly deep in thought, "Has he been showing you favor recently?"
"He's been spending a lot of time with Zheng Baishi these days."
Zhao Shuhua stood up, her eyes cold as ice, "I don't think highly of him."
Yan Che raised an eyebrow, "Why?"
With that question, Zhao Shuhua knew Yan Che already had his own ideas, but she warned him with a look, "This man shows no clear ambition or purpose, yet he acts recklessly. I don't recommend you use him."
Yan Che pondered for a moment, then nodded, "Yes, I understand."
Yan Che had always been obedient. Zhao Shuhua nodded, "Find time to visit your sister more often."
Yan Che knew it was time to take his leave. After exiting Kunning Palace, on impulse, he headed toward Jingning Palace. It was late August, and Yan Zhen would be leaving Great Zhou in October. He truly couldn't bear the thought.
Jingning Palace was quiet, almost like a cold palace. Yan Che reached the central courtyard before anyone noticed and bowed. Waving them off, he asked with some impatience, "Where is the princess?"
A servant hastily replied, "The princess is in the backyard—"
Yan Che strode toward the backyard. As soon as he passed through the second Moon Cave Gate, he saw Yan Zhen sitting on a swing.
The late autumn weather had long turned cold. Yan Zhen sat on the swing, her head slightly tilted back, swaying gently as she gazed at the sky. The cherry blossom trees around her had all withered, their yellowed leaves covering the ground. Yan Che's heart ached. Suddenly, he felt Yan Zhen was tainted by that decaying aura, but she was only fifteen...
"Zhen'er—"
Yan Che called out. Yan Zhen reacted slowly, taking a moment to gradually lower her gaze. When she saw Yan Che, the corners of her lips twitched, a faint light in her eyes but no smile, "Crown Prince brother."
The girl's voice was hoarse, her spirit listless. Yan Che felt a pang in his heart. Remembering Zhao Shuhua's advice and knowing who to blame, he walked behind Yan Zhen and gently pushed the swing.
"When we were young, brother used to push me on the swing like this. Others were afraid I'd swing too high and fall, but only brother dared to let me fly high..."
Yan Zhen seemed lost in some memory, her voice distant and faint.
Yan Che smiled, "I still can now."
With that, he put more strength into his hands, and the swing indeed swayed with greater amplitude.
But he didn't let her fly high after all. If Yan Zhen flew high now, even he wouldn't be able to keep her.
"Brother, where is the crown princess?"
Yan Zhen suddenly asked. Yan Che didn't even twitch an eyebrow at the question, "Naturally, in the Eastern Palace."
Yan Zhen glanced back at Yan Che and suddenly sighed, "So brother is the same too.Yan Zhen didn't specify what was the same, but Yan Che suddenly felt a heavy blockage in his chest. After a moment, he patted Yan Zhen's head, "Why don't you visit the Eastern Palace? Don't look so worried. Actually, we're all fine—it's the common people outside who truly suffer."
Yan Zhen seemed to think of something, a slight curve forming at the corner of her lips, "Brother, you will surely become a good emperor in the future."Yan Che's heart ached with sorrow. Yan Zhen shifted aside, making space for Yan Che to sit beside her. Once seated, Yan Che's thoughts drifted back to the affairs of the Marquis' household—their mother was so formidable, yet both siblings possessed temperaments that leaned too heavily toward meekness.
In the imperial family, this was truly fatal.
...
...
At Prince Yi's royal residence, Qin Guan removed the Medicated Gauze from Yan Ze's eyes.
"Your Highness, please open your eyes—"
Yan Ze, lying on the low couch, complied and opened his eyes.
He possessed a pair of exceptionally clear and beautiful phoenix eyes that, at a glance, resembled the warm sunlight of early spring. Yet after observing for a long while, Qin Guan noticed Yan Ze’s eyes didn’t blink at all—his pupils remained fixed in the center, utterly motionless.
Qin Guan sighed and waved her hand in front of Yan Ze’s eyes. He blinked once, but his pupils still didn’t move.
Beside them, Sun Muqing frowned and said, “It’s a bit strange. I feel we’ve hit a bottleneck.” He then looked at Qin Guan. “Now we can only rely on your acupuncture technique. The medicinal soup is no longer very effective.”
Yan Ze’s pulse and qi-blood showed no abnormalities; the only possible issue lay with his meridians. Unfortunately, the area around the eyes was dense with countless fragile meridians, making it impossible to verify. Qin Guan nodded. “I’ve just modified the acupuncture routine. Let’s try it on His Highness today.”
Yan Ze’s eyes remained open, his gaze unfocused and drifting in the air.
As Yue Ning and Sun Muqing stepped aside, Qin Guan took out her silver needles.
Sitting on a high stool nearby, she leaned in and delicately applied the needles. The cold, gleaming tips glided over Yan Ze’s eyelids, yet they failed to stir even a flicker of response in his eyes. A faint, spreading pain prompted him to instinctively close them.
Qin Guan promptly advised, “If the pain becomes unbearable, Your Highness, please speak up.”
Yan Ze responded with a soft “Mm,” then fell silent.
Due to the close proximity required for the needle therapy, Qin Guan could see the subtle twitching at the corners of Yan Ze’s eyes after each insertion. Frowning slightly, she said nothing for the moment. Once the entire acupuncture session was completed, a thin layer of sweat had formed on Yan Ze’s forehead. This was a routine she had tested on herself, and it was undoubtedly more painful than previous methods.
Seeing this, Yue Ning hurried over to wipe Yan Ze’s sweat. Qin Guan suggested, “Let His Highness drink the medicinal soup and rest for a while.”
Yue Ning quickly nodded. When the medicinal soup was brought, Yan Ze appeared utterly exhausted. After drinking it, he leaned back on the daybed to rest with his eyes closed. Yue Ning, still concerned, stayed to watch over him in the inner chamber, while Qin Guan and Sun Muqing stepped out.
Qin Guan remarked, “During the needle therapy just now, I noticed that the sensitivity around His Highness’s eyes has become quite acute. I don’t understand why he still can’t see. Although I can perform acupuncture, Divine Doctor Sun, do you know if there are any other acupuncture techniques?”
Sun Muqing gave a wry smile. “I truly don’t know. I suspect it’s still a matter of time. At this rate, he should regain his sight after the New Year. I’ve seen cases before where someone lost their eyesight, sought many physicians without improvement, and almost gave up before suddenly recovering. I wonder if we’re just missing a crucial trigger.”
Qin Guan sighed in frustration. “I’ve been wondering if there might be residual blood clots or toxins deeper within His Highness’s eyes that haven’t been cleared…”
At this, Sun Muqing’s expression turned serious. If that were the case, it would be far more complicated.
The two sat in the outer floral hall, which overlooked a garden filled with orchids. Sun Muqing looked at Qin Guan and suddenly asked, “Your Highness, have you been investigating the case involving Prince Jin from last year?”
Qin Guan snapped back to attention. “…Yes, why do you ask?”
Sun Muqing smiled apologetically. “My junior martial sister’s family is connected to this case. May I ask if you’ve uncovered anything? Did Prince Jin truly commit a crime? If not, then my junior martial sister’s family has been wrongfully accused.”Qin Guan hesitated, then said, "Divine Doctor Sun, since the matter hasn't been investigated yet... you'd better not mention last year's incident to others casually. If you believe your junior sister's family was wrongly accused, don't speak of that either to avoid bringing trouble upon yourself."
Sun Muqing looked somewhat embarrassed. "I understand. I've only mentioned it to the princess."
Qin Guan felt a pang of bitterness in her heart. She sighed and said no more.
The two sat in silence outside, the atmosphere growing awkwardly still, when suddenly Yue Ning's exclamation came from inside the room. Qin Guan's expression changed immediately, and she exchanged a glance with Sun Muqing as they both stood up simultaneously.
They rushed together into the inner chamber.
Upon entering, Qin Guan saw Yan Ze gripping Yue Ning's hand, his forehead drenched in sweat. His brows were tightly furrowed, his entire body writhing as if trapped in a nightmare, though his eyes remained closed. Yue Ning's hand had turned pale from Yan Ze's grip, yet she endured the pain without daring to cry out loudly. Qin Guan immediately took out her silver needles and swiftly inserted them into the Lidui acupoint and Yinbai acupoint on Yan Ze's left foot. After these two needles, the agony on Yan Ze's face gradually faded, and he grew calm.
Yet he still clung tightly to Yue Ning's hand.
Yue Ning's eyes reddened as she whispered, "What's wrong with Third Brother?"
"He must have been having a nightmare—"
Sun Muqing, who had followed them in, expressed surprise, "I added sleep-inducing and calming ingredients to the medicinal soup. How could the Crown Prince..."
Qin Guan shook her head. "Not necessarily. Perhaps His Highness has something weighing on his mind, or some unresolved burden."
Though she spoke uncertainly, Yue Ning's expression shifted noticeably.
Qin Guan noticed this, but with Yan Ze still resting, it wasn't the right time to inquire further.
Qin Guan checked the pulse on Yan Ze's other wrist and nodded after a moment. "He's fine now. Let him sleep. If you're worried, you can stay here and let him hold your hand."
Yue Ning nodded. Qin Guan and Sun Muqing waited a while longer before leaving again.
Sun Muqing seemed deeply puzzled by this. Qin Guan found it somewhat unexpected as well—she had reviewed Sun Muqing's prescription herself. The medicine was supposed to have calming effects. Since Yan Ze's illness affected his eyes, ample rest and sleep were crucial for his recovery. Normally, those who took this medicine shouldn't dream easily, let alone fall into such intense nightmares.
Moreover, Yan Ze had appeared utterly tormented, clearly in the throes of a bad dream.
Qin Guan sighed inwardly. Yan Ze appeared composed and dignified on the surface, but who knew how much suffering he concealed within?
This time, they waited nearly half an hour before Yan Ze awoke. When he did, he seemed to have completely forgotten the dream. Yue Ning asked anxiously, "How do you feel, Third Brother?"
Yan Ze rubbed his temples. "I feel rather tired this time."
Having just experienced a nightmare, fatigue was natural. Yue Ning didn't mention it, asking instead, "What about your eyes? Do they hurt?"
Yan Ze shook his head and attempted to open his eyes. Qin Guan and Sun Muqing watched him intently, but when his eyes opened, they remained clear yet unfocused, the pupils motionless. Qin Guan waved her hand before his eyes, yet there was no change in his gaze. She sighed.
Sun Muqing forced an optimistic tone. "It's alright. Perhaps one day, Your Highness will open your eyes and be able to see."
Yan Ze collected himself and smiled. "I think so too. Maybe tomorrow I'll be able to see."Qin Guan's mood had lightened somewhat, while Yan Ze didn't feel there was anything worth grieving over. "Have someone prepare tea and snacks," he said.
The group settled in the flower hall for a brief rest. Yan Ze, appearing completely unbothered, asked, "I heard from Yue Ning that the court has been unsettled these past few days?"
He directed the question toward Qin Guan, who responded with a bitter smile, "Yes, the case involving Prince Jin Manor hasn't been clarified yet."
Yue Ning blinked at Qin Guan. "I tell Third Brother everything about outside affairs."
Qin Guan understood. Yan Ze had been back for several days but had scarcely ventured out. If he were elsewhere it might be different, but in the capital, whenever he went out, countless people would point and whisper about him.
"A few days ago, the Empress was implicated, but nothing came of the interrogation. These past couple of days, Prince Cheng's side is still investigating."
Qin Guan knew Yue Ning would learn of these matters regardless, so she saw no point in hiding them. Yan Ze sighed. "I never thought I'd return to find Prince Jin gone. Back then..."
Yan Ze seemed quite emotional. Seeing him like this, Yue Ning was affected too. "Actually, when news of that incident reached Jinzhou, none of us believed it... How could Prince Jin commit murder?! And to kill of all people..."
Yue Ning trailed off, leaving her sentence unfinished. Yan Ze continued questioning Qin Guan, "They still haven't connected it to last year's case, have they?"
That was true. Even though Song Xiwen's corpse had appeared under mysterious circumstances, it proved nothing. Song Xiwen wasn't the one who killed Consort Jin...
"Not yet. Right now, they're still focused on determining what happened with the murder at Prince Jin Manor."
Yan Ze made a thoughtful sound and sighed. "Truly an eventful season."
After they had conversed for a while—since Wang Han hadn't yet fallen into Prince Cheng's hands, the case remained at a standstill—Yue Ning saw Qin Guan out when she prepared to leave. Walking along the path in Prince Yi's residence, Yue Ning said, "Earlier... when Third Brother was having that nightmare, I heard him cry out in pain. He wasn't holding my hand from the start—at first, it seemed like he was trying to claw at his eyes. It terrified me, so I grabbed his hand. But whatever he was dreaming about made him grip me back."
Red marks from Yan Ze's grasp were visible on Yue Ning's hand and wrist. Her eyes reddened as she continued, "I think... Third Brother must have been dreaming about when he lost his sight. It's all because of me..."
Yan Ze was already grown when he developed the eye disease. He remembered the scene clearly, and it was natural for it to become his nightmare. Qin Guan took Yue Ning's hand, applying ointment she carried with her, and comforted her, "Don't dwell on the past now. All of us are helping His Highness. He will surely regain his sight."
Yue Ning still shook her head. "But these ten years... I'm still the one who failed him..."
Qin Guan sighed. "He doesn't want you filled with guilt toward him. Wouldn't it be better to make it up to him in the future?"
At these words, Yue Ning suddenly stopped walking. She glanced at Qin Guan, her cheeks faintly flushing for some reason. "What do you think... of Third Brother as a person?"
Qin Guan was taken aback, needing a moment to process what Yue Ning meant. "His Highness... I haven't known him long, but he strikes me as gentle and refined—warm, patient, thoughtful and measured. That his character remains unaffected after all these years with his eye condition shows he's resilient and broad-minded. Hmm... actually, he seems quite suitable for you."Upon hearing this, Yue Ning's cheeks flushed even redder. Yet Qin Guan's words had struck a chord within her heart. She whispered softly, "I've spoken with Grandmother and Mother, but haven't told Father yet. I'll wait until Father and Eldest Brother return at year's end."
Qin Guan looked at Yue Ning, "But... I must speak frankly."
Yue Ning responded with a soft "Mm," "Go ahead..."
Qin Guan weighed her words carefully, "Do you truly like the Crown Prince, or are you merely trying to make amends for him?"
Yue Ning was momentarily stunned, then cleared her throat lightly, "I... of course... Third Brother has always been good to me since childhood. Taking responsibility for this matter goes without saying. Now when I see Third Brother, I still feel he's more dear to me than others. Don't worry, I've thought it through carefully. I probably... have all kinds of feelings toward Third Brother - sibling affection, gratitude toward my savior, and he's also someone I deeply admire. I feel Third Brother has virtues everywhere, and he treats me well too..."
Seeing her flushed cheeks, the worry in Qin Guan's heart subsided. She smiled, "So you do have feelings for him... That's wonderful! When his eyes can see again, it will be perfect timing for your grand wedding. How splendid!"
Yue Ning coughed again, somewhat embarrassed, "It's not that far along yet. We still need to wait for Father and Eldest Brother... Speaking of which, Eldest Brother is with the Northwest Frontier Army. His recent letter mentioned..."
Yue Ning hesitated, clearly the letter didn't contain good news.
Qin Guan's smile faded, "What did it say?"
Yue Ning sighed, "It said one-third of the veteran officers who can lead troops have been imprisoned - over ten people altogether. Fortunately, Eldest Brother has Father and Grandmother backing him. Others bypassed him to target those officers, and though he wanted to help, he couldn't."
Qin Guan's heart grew heavy. Knowing Yue Ning was currently preoccupied with thoughts of Yan Ze, she decided not to say more and soon took her leave from Prince Yi's residence. Outside the gates, Qin Guan instructed Baiying to drive to Prince Rui's residence.
Meanwhile, in Prince Rui's residence, Yan Chi was receiving letters from the northwest frontier. This was the twenty-eighth letter he had received within three days - some came from Qianzhou, some from Liangzhou, and others from the Northwest Frontier Army...
Some were sent by Master Qi, some by Yu Qi, containing both good and bad news.
The letters were delivered by messenger hawks to Luozhou, then rushed to the capital by his subordinates on fast horses. As these snowflake-like letters rapidly poured in, the truth about Prince Rui's death gradually unfolded before Yan Chi's eyes. The deductions from Qin Guan's corpse examination, combined with his own meticulous conjectures, were now being confirmed. These black words on white paper brought almost all the hidden evils lurking in darkness to the surface.
Having reached this point, the inherent fierceness and ruthlessness in Yan Chi's bones were completely awakened.
His father, who had been a heroic commander his entire life, had ultimately fallen victim to his own loyalty and righteousness.
How lamentable and tragic indeed!
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