Coroner's Diary

"The former owner of the Ink-Stained Painting House?"

Yan Chi's brows furrowed tightly. The words "Ink-Stained Painting House" had been a prominent subject half a year ago, yet now they sounded somewhat distant to him. But after that fleeting moment of vagueness came a wave of chilling surprise.

The Ink-Stained Painting House—how could it be involved again?!

Ning Buyi had purchased the Ink-Stained Painting House seven years ago, and Wei Qin happened to be its former owner. Could it really be such a coincidence?!

A strange feeling rose in Yan Chi's heart. Ning Buyi's final words before his death still echoed in his mind. At the time, Ning Buyi had never admitted why he killed so many people. When everyone learned he was fatally poisoned, they assumed he committed the murders to save himself. But what if that wasn't the case?

Nearly half a year had passed since the case. Could it just be a coincidence?

As soon as this thought emerged, Yan Chi instinctively shook his head inwardly. No, he didn't believe in coincidences.

"Has Wei Qin truly not returned to the capital these past few years?"

Bai Feng nodded. "Yes, he hasn't returned. That much is certain. He's now a wealthy magnate in Lan Prefecture and Yi Prefecture. Although he still has some business in the capital, our people inquired with all the shop managers, and they all said the head proprietor hasn't returned to the capital for years, practically treating the south as his ancestral home."

"What about that residence?"

As soon as Yan Chi asked, Bai Feng replied promptly, "Our people checked with the local authorities. The most recent record dates back eight years ago when Wei Qin bought many properties in that area. He later sold most of them off, but this particular residence was kept, though it has remained vacant for years. The Ink-Stained Painting House was something Wei Qin acquired casually back then. Later, as his family's business shifted focus to silk, he divested from antiques and paintings, which is why he sold it to Ning Buyi."

The residence belonged to Wei Qin, and the Ink-Stained Painting House also belonged to Wei Qin. Could it be that Ning Buyi purchased the residence along with the painting house?!

Property transactions require submitting deeds and documentation to the authorities. Since there was no official record, it was likely the transaction wasn't formalized. Could Wei Qin have simply gifted the residence to Ning Buyi?

Once this idea took root, Yan Chi's suspicions grew wildly. If the residence truly belonged to Ning Buyi, and Li Muyun had visited multiple times, it would be highly peculiar. What kind of coincidence would it take for this to connect back to Ning Buyi's case after such twists and half a year later?

"Keep investigating. See if there's any connection between this residence and Ning Buyi."

Bai Feng nodded immediately. Noticing Yan Chi's grave expression, he added, "If the residence is indeed linked to Ning Buyi, could Li Muyun have been involved in Ning Buyi's case? Is it possible Ning Buyi bribed Li Muyun by gifting him this unnamed property?"

Yan Chi shook his head. When the serial altar case emerged, the chief investigator was the Lin'an Prefecture Magistrate. Li Muyun's role in it was relatively minor. If Ning Buyi were to bribe anyone, it should have been Zheng Baishi, not Li Muyun. Given this, it was far more likely that Ning Buyi and Li Muyun shared some undisclosed relationship.

After a brief contemplation, Yan Chi commanded, "To the Loyal Marquis Manor—"

Bai Feng understood Yan Chi intended to seek out Qin Guan and promptly knocked on the carriage compartment to relay the order.The carriage arrived at the entrance of Loyal Marquis Manor. Bai Feng stepped forward to knock and inquire, only to learn that Qin Guan had not yet returned. At the same time, Qin Shu in the study was informed of Yan Chi's visit. Since Yan Chi had no prior association with Loyal Marquis Manor, his visit was likely to seek Qin Guan. However, with Qin Guan currently absent from the manor... After a moment's consideration, Qin Shu instructed, "Quickly invite Prince Rui inside..."

Wu Yang, receiving the order, personally went to extend the invitation. Seeing this, Yan Chi in the outer courtyard could not easily refuse and had to follow Wu Yang into the manor. Halfway there, they encountered Qin Shu, who had come to greet them. Qin Shu promptly clasped his hands in salute, "Your humble servant pays respects to Your Highness—"

Yan Chi waved his hand, "For what matter has the Marquis summoned me..."

Qin Shu was in no hurry to speak, merely sidestepping slightly, "Would Your Highness care to speak in private? Qin Guan is not in the manor at the moment and is estimated to return in about half an hour. This humble official invites Your Highness to share a cup of tea and exchange a few casual words."

What Qin Shu intended to say was naturally not idle chatter. Yan Chi understood this and accompanied him to the study.

After they were seated, Qin Shu first ordered fine tea to be served before speaking, "Your Highness must have heard the news?"

Yan Chi, who had been sipping his tea, replied, "Is the Marquis referring to the news of the Northwest Frontier Army military provisions case?"

Qin Shu gave a bitter smile, "Indeed. A letter arrived stating that those involved include an old general of the Northwest Frontier Army named Chu Fei Sheng, and a certain Huang from the transport commissioner's office."

"And the former Dingxi Road military governor, Zhang Qide," Yan Chi added.

Qin Shu's smile instantly turned somewhat strained, "Ah, yes, and Zhang Qide..."

Yan Chi listened with an indifferent expression, appearing unconcerned. Qin Shu asked, "Since Your Highness is aware, do you have nothing to say?"

Yan Chi raised an eyebrow, "The current Northwest Frontier Army is no longer what it once was. I no longer hold authority and do not involve myself in its affairs. These matters will undoubtedly be decided by the Emperor."

Qin Shu set down his teacup and sighed, "Your Highness may not be aware, but the Northwest Frontier Army provisions case involves significant implications. Even the Crown Prince cannot avoid responsibility now. As for Zhang Qide... I originally thought him to be a good man, but who would have thought that after becoming a regional governor, he would regress instead? Although Your Highness no longer commands the Northwest Frontier Army, everyone knows it was established by the Old Prince and represents the hard work of both him and you. At this point, it is naturally best to swiftly eradicate corruption. The Crown Prince is deeply troubled by this matter. Upon learning that Zhang Qide was involved, he ordered me to investigate others as well. Other issues may be negotiable, but corruption in military provisions cannot be tolerated."

After Qin Shu's righteous speech, Yan Chi also set down his teacup and said, "I am quite comforted to hear that the Crown Prince holds such intentions. I believe the Emperor would also be pleased to know. Zhang Qide is Zhang Qide, and the Crown Prince is the Crown Prince—they are ultimately different."

Hearing this, Qin Shu felt somewhat relieved, "Your Highness is truly magnanimous. You may not know, but since Zhang Qide's incident, many have speculated that the Crown Prince was behind the scheme. But that is utterly unfounded. Those who wish to tarnish the Crown Prince's reputation are merely deluding themselves."

Yan Chi smiled without comment, as if in agreement yet also indifferent. Qin Shu's eyes shifted thoughtfully, and he said, "Speaking of which, November is approaching soon. These days, the manor is preparing dowry for Guan'er. I wonder if the royal residence has begun preparations?"When the topic turned to the wedding, Yan Chi's gaze noticeably softened. "It has begun. The Household Affairs Department has already started the preparations according to the ceremonial protocols."

Qin Shu nodded. "Guan'er has a gentle temperament, but she acts with her own convictions. Her parents passed away early, and although we have tried our best to look after her, there has always been a certain distance. Now that we see her matched with a suitable partner, we feel we have not failed her parents. If you have any specific requests for the wedding preparations, Your Highness, please feel free to discuss them with the Marquis's household."

Qin Shu wanted to say more, but remembering that Yan Lin's funeral had not been long ago, he held back. Still, his words were filled with warmth, as if he and Yan Chi were already family. "Your Highness now holds authority in the Ministry of Justice, which aligns well with Guan'er's interests. I believe the two of you will harmonize beautifully in the future."

Everyone knew Qin Guan had a passion for corpse examination, and in this regard, Yan Chi's position in the Ministry of Justice truly matched her inclinations.

Yan Chi maintained a faint smile throughout, polite and proper. Yet, for some reason, Qin Shu felt uneasy witnessing this demeanor. Moreover, Yan Chi had previously commanded the Northwest Frontier Army and had little involvement in other court affairs. Now that he had joined the Ministry of Justice, he remained detached from other matters of the court. Qin Shu, who was skilled in social maneuvering, always felt that no matter how much he conversed with Yan Chi, there remained a barrier between them.

Yan Chi then asked, "With Zhang Qide imprisoned, what are the Crown Prince's plans?"

Yan Chi had sensed what Qin Shu wanted to discuss. Since he wished to speak of Zhang Qide, Yan Chi saw no reason to avoid the topic.

Sure enough, Qin Shu's expression turned troubled. "What else can he do? Naturally, he will not intervene further. However, Zhang Qide originally came from the Northern Garrison Army. We do not yet know what the old general thinks, and with Prince Cheng involved as well..."

Qin Shu sighed. "Prince Cheng had been leading the investigation into the case of the remains at Prince Jin Manor, which led to the Empress's confinement. Now that Zhang Qide has proven incompetent, who knows how Prince Cheng will try to undermine the Crown Prince." After a pause, he added, "With Your Highness about to marry Guan'er, from now on, we are practically family. Regarding Zhang Qide's matter, I hope you will have the opportunity to speak fairly on the Crown Prince's behalf before the Emperor..."

Yan Chi's expression remained unreadable as he replied with a slight smile, "If the opportunity arises, I will naturally speak. The court has seen much turmoil over the past year, which is not beneficial for the Great Zhou."

Qin Shu quickly nodded in agreement. "Indeed, last year's case involving Prince Jin and the salt transportation case in the south have been particularly troubling."

Yan Chi smiled. "Last year's salt transportation case implicated many of the Crown Prince's associates, which shows some shortcomings in his judgment of personnel."

Qin Shu's smile froze. He never expected Yan Chi to openly criticize the Crown Prince in his presence. Such remarks might be acceptable in private conversations between him and his son Qin Yan, but coming from Yan Chi, was it a sign of closeness or outright disdain for the Crown Prince?

Qin Shu studied Yan Chi carefully, but the latter appeared as calm as if discussing what he had for breakfast. Uncertain of Yan Chi's true stance, Qin Shu could only respond evasively, "The court is filled with numerous officials, and His Highness cannot possibly oversee every detail, especially those stationed outside the capital..."

As Qin Shu struggled with his words, Yan Chi changed the subject. "Marquis, are you familiar with the Ministry of Revenue's Vice Minister, Yu Wenxian?"

Qin Shu was taken aback. "Yu Wenxian?"Yan Chi nodded, but Qin Shu thought for a moment and said, "I haven't paid much attention to this person before. He was promoted to Vice Minister of Revenue six years ago and usually keeps a low profile. But this time... he unexpectedly became the imperial commissioner for the military provisions case. I never imagined he'd gain the Emperor's favor."

The military provisions case had evolved into a struggle for control over the Northwest Frontier Army and the northwestern garrison forces. While Minister of War Ge Yang had been recalled, Lin Xugui and Yu Wenxian remained stationed in the northwest—clear evidence they were among the Emperor's most trusted officials. Recently, Bai Feng had been investigating Li Muyun and the Fu Clan, which led to reviewing the backgrounds of these individuals. In doing so, Yan Chi noticed something intriguing about Yu Wenxian's origins.

"Indeed, he comes from a humble background and has advanced quietly all along. Who would have thought he'd catch the Emperor's eye?"

Qin Shu frowned slightly, studying Yan Chi briefly. He couldn't understand why Yan Chi would suddenly bring up such a person. Even if Yu Wenxian currently enjoyed the Emperor's trust, his mission to the northwest had offended many—at the very least, the Crown Prince now viewed both Lin Xugui and Yu Wenxian as adversaries.

As the saying goes, each reign brings its own courtiers. When the Crown Prince ascends the throne, the court will undoubtedly undergo a complete transformation.

Qin Shu sighed deeply. The sooner that day came, the more beneficial it would be for the Marquis Manor.

"Speaking of Yu Wenxian, I recall something. He served outside the capital in Xuzhou for many years and nearly got implicated in a case involving the sale of official positions—almost lost his post entirely. Coming from a humble family with no connections at court, he never gained significant opportunities. Yet ten years ago, he entered the capital. Though he never advanced beyond the vice minister position, that role is interesting: while not the highest authority, it holds considerable power without drawing much attention."

The Emperor had sent two deputies to the northwest, revealing his approach to employing talent. Yan Chi pondered Qin Shu's words carefully. After speaking a while longer, Wu Yang knocked on the door outside and reported, "Marquis, Prince, the Commandery Princess has returned..."

A smile touched Qin Shu's lips. "Guan'er is back. I'll have her come at once!"

But Yan Chi rose to his feet. "No need. I'll go see her."

Before Qin Shu could respond, Yan Chi had already turned and strode out. The faint smile on Qin Shu's face faded slightly.

It was evident Yan Chi truly cared for Qin Guan. If so, could he be persuaded to contribute his efforts to the Crown Prince's cause?

As Qin Shu contemplated this, Yan Chi spotted Qin Guan walking from the garden toward the main gate.

Qin Guan had just returned from the palace and was surprised to find Yan Chi at the Marquis Manor. Seeing him approach, she quickly curtseyed. Yan Chi smiled, stepping forward to lift her up. "This isn't the place to talk. Let's go outside."

Qin Guan murmured assent. "Where to?"

Releasing her hand, Yan Chi said, "To Xun Niang's place."

Hearing this, Qin Guan knew Yan Chi had something important to discuss and promptly headed out. After just a few steps, footsteps sounded behind them. Turning, she saw Qin Shu seeing them off. "Guan'er, are you leaving? The Prince has been waiting for you here for some time!"

Qin Guan nodded, addressing him as "Uncle." Yan Chi turned and said, "There's no need to see us out, Marquis. I'm taking her out for a while."Qin Shu glanced at the two of them and smiled, "In that case, I won't insist on seeing you off. I had originally intended to invite the prince to stay for a meal—"

"There's no need for such courtesy, Marquis. I shall visit another day."

Yan Chi was decisive and straightforward. Qin Shu watched them depart with a faint smile.

After Yan Chi and his companion had left, Qin Shu frowned briefly before calling out, "Someone, summon Zhou Huai!"

In the study, Qin Shu waited for Zhou Huai to arrive and instructed, "Keep an eye on Minister Yang for now. Also, investigate a man named Yu Wenxian—the Left Vice Minister of Revenue."

Zhou Huai accepted the order and left. Qin Shu narrowed his eyes thoughtfully, convinced that anyone Yan Chi valued must be extraordinary. He was curious to discover what made this Yu Wenxian so remarkable...

Once outside the marquis' residence, Yan Chi helped Qin Guan into his carriage. If in the past Qin Guan might have hesitated about being alone with him in public, she now had no room for such concerns. As soon as she settled inside, she asked urgently, "What happened?"

Yan Chi sat beside her, taking her hand. "Nothing else of great concern, but we've uncovered something interesting about the residence Li Muyun visited."

Qin Guan stared intently at Yan Chi, who continued, "The previous owner of that property was named Wei Qin, a merchant whose business is now primarily in the south. He hasn't returned to the capital in a long time. He was the former owner of the Ink-Stained Painting House."

Qin Guan's pupils trembled, and her eyes widened abruptly.

"The former owner of the Ink-Stained Painting House?!"

Her reaction mirrored Yan Chi's own—neither had expected to hear those words again after half a year.

After Ning Buyi sold the Ink-Stained Painting House, it operated under its original name for a few days. Later, when news of Ning Buyi's crimes somehow spread, the new owner changed its name. Qin Guan couldn't recall what it was renamed, but Yue Ning had mentioned it to her afterward.

The Ink-Stained Painting House—it had resurfaced again!

Qin Guan steadied herself. "When investigating Ning Buyi's case, Li Muyun wasn't deeply involved. There's no reason he would cover anything up..."

Yan Chi drew her closer. "Do you think it's a coincidence?"

A coincidence? Qin Guan shook her head. "If it were someone else who happened to buy that residence, it might be different. But it's Li Muyun. He clearly went there to avoid attention. His behavior is so suspicious, and now it's connected to a previous case—it's far too coincidental."

Yan Chi nodded. "That's what I thought as well."

"Also," Qin Guan grasped Yan Chi's arm tightly, "we never confirmed why Ning Buyi set up that altar. After the case was closed, aside from a few servants and an old attendant, there was no one else around him. It's too strange—he acted alone, yet managed to commit so many crimes!"

Yan Chi agreed. "I'll have someone continue investigating. Don't worry. I only told you today so you'd be aware."

With this new clue emerging so unexpectedly, Qin Guan couldn't contain her urgency. After a moment, she said, "Tomorrow, I'll go to the Lin'an Prefecture office to review Ning Buyi's case files again."

Knowing Qin Guan wouldn't wait, Yan Chi had no objections. They rode the carriage to Xun Niang's place, where they found Fan Xin already able to move about normally. If one didn't engage him in combat, it was impossible to tell he had suffered severe injuries not long ago."Prince, Princess!" Fan Xin had been staying at Xun Niang's place for several days, and his spirits always soared whenever Yan Chi and Qin Guan visited.

Xun Niang was equally delighted to see them and naturally went with Master Yuan to prepare food. Fan Xin rubbed his hands together eagerly, "Prince, my injuries have healed now. When can I return to Shuoxi?"

Yan Chi looked at him with a faint, ambiguous smile, "What would you do back in Shuoxi?"

Fan Xin gazed at Yan Chi with pleading eyes, "Prince, the matter concerning the Old Prince hasn't been clarified yet, has it? I can do anything upon returning—with the Old Prince gone, the main camp in Shuoxi must be in chaos. There's plenty I could do there. I'll follow any orders you give me."

His tone carried a note of supplication, and Qin Guan, listening nearby, sighed softly.

Yet Yan Chi waved his hand dismissively, firmly rejecting Fan Xin's request, "Stay in the capital and rest assured. There are other tasks for you."

Fan Xin's eyes lit up, "What does the Prince command? I'll do anything, as long as I don't have to stay here like an invalid anymore."

Yan Chi scrutinized Fan Xin from head to toe, "Injuries fully healed?"

Fan Xin nodded vigorously, "Yes, yes, all healed..."

Glancing at Qin Guan, Fan Xin quickly added, "Princess, you may not know, but we in Shuoxi often get injured. Usually, if no bandaging is needed, we consider the wounds healed and ready for battle anytime..."

As he spoke, Fan Xin winked at Qin Guan with a look full of entreaty. Qin Guan had intended to speak up, but seeing this, she remained silent.

Yan Chi didn't miss any of these subtle gestures but merely lifted his chin toward Bai Feng, "Spar with him a few rounds."

Fan Xin frowned slightly but showed no fear. Bai Feng smiled faintly, and the two stepped out of the waterside pavilion, beginning their match in the open space outside. With the hall doors wide open, Qin Guan and Yan Chi had a clear view of the two combatants.

Although Bai Feng was Yan Chi's personal guard, Qin Guan had never actually seen him fight. His movements were swift, each strike so fast that Qin Guan could barely follow them. Fan Xin, as one of the Old Prince's twelve elite guards, fought with fierce intensity. They exchanged dozens of blows until, at one point, Fan Xin grunted and stumbled back several steps. His expression shifted as he prepared to press on, but Bai Feng had already withdrawn from the fight. Clenching his teeth, Fan Xin walked back in, his face etched with bitterness and frustration.

Yan Chi was pouring tea for Qin Guan and remarked coolly as Fan Xin entered, "Shameful, isn't it?"

Fan Xin muttered something under his breath, his head hanging low. Qin Guan couldn't help but chuckle softly beside him.

Yan Chi continued, "Why were you slow just now?"

Fan Xin pressed his lips together, his voice as faint as a mosquito's buzz, "Because..."

He didn't finish, but it was clear that his previous severe injuries, not fully healed, had affected his speed. Besides, Bai Feng was as fast as a phantom—how could he possibly be a match? He had thought he could last a hundred moves, but he had overestimated himself.

"Take another half-month to recover. After that, there will be work for you."

Fan Xin abruptly looked up, this time careful not to appear too eager, and responded respectfully.

Yan Chi waved his hand, unwilling to let them disturb his time with Qin Guan. As Fan Xin and Bai Feng withdrew, Qin Guan quickly asked, "What will he do in half a month?"Yan Chi then said, "There's no point in keeping Wang Han with Yan Qi any longer. We need to bring him out."

Qin Guan understood but sighed, "The Empress is still under house arrest, and the Prince Jin Manor corpse case has temporarily hit a dead end. Now the Northwest Frontier Army provisions case has suddenly made progress. Currently, the entire court and public are discussing the military provisions case, so the corpse case can only be set aside for now."

Yan Chi suddenly spoke, "The appearance of the corpse is because someone wants to reopen the Prince Jin case like we do. Unfortunately, there are also those who don’t want us to investigate Prince Jin’s case. The Empress was placed under confinement, and immediately after, Zhang Qide’s incident occurred. This time, the Eastern Palace will likely suffer a heavy blow. It’s all too coincidental."

Qin Guan had always known that both the Prince Jin case and the corpse case were weapons in court struggles. But as Yan Chi said, this time there was indeed a feeling of being suppressed. When a case was needed as a catalyst, it was investigated. Once the goal was achieved, no one cared about the truth.

"If what you say is true, who is the one trying to bring the case to light? And who doesn’t want us to investigate?"

Yan Chi glanced at Qin Guan. "I don’t know who wants to reopen the case, but there’s only one person who doesn’t want us to continue investigating."

Qin Guan’s heart trembled, and her voice unconsciously lowered. "You mean... the Emperor?"

Yan Chi stood up and walked to the waterside window. Outside, the lotus pond had withered entirely—this season would be perfect for digging up lotus roots from the pond. After a moment’s thought, he said, "When the corpse case emerged, I was somewhat surprised that the Emperor ordered the Lin’an Prefecture, the Court of Judicial Review, and the Ministry of Justice to conduct a joint trial. Last year, the Prince Jin case had already brought shame upon the imperial family, and judging by the Emperor’s attitude toward it then, he shouldn’t have allowed it to become the focus of public attention again. Yet he agreed to it."

"When the matter implicated the Empress, the Emperor did not intervene to stop it. It wasn’t until after numerous twists and turns that the Empress was placed under confinement."

Yan Chi turned to face Qin Guan. "If we look solely at the corpse case, it might seem as though the Emperor was protecting the Empress, which even made Prince Cheng quite resentful. But with the Empress confined, the Crown Prince lost his support. At first, the Crown Prince held onto hope, but as time passed, he must have panicked. And sure enough, his faction encountered trouble."

Qin Guan stood up, her mind reeling. "Are you saying that the Emperor initially allowed the investigation just to see whom the case would point to? When it pointed to the Empress, he didn’t stop it. Instead, he used the case to legitimately confine the Empress and then moved against the Crown Prince’s faction?"

At this point, Qin Guan gasped. "The Emperor wants to target the Crown Prince?"

Her voice dropped even further, as if she could hardly believe her own words. Yan Che had only been appointed Crown Prince a year ago. If the Emperor had appointed him, he must have been satisfied with him. Why would he turn against the Crown Prince in less than a year?

"Is the Emperor worried that the Crown Prince is becoming too powerful, or is it..."

Qin Guan thought of a darker possibility but couldn’t understand the reason behind it.

Yan Chi shook his head. "This military provisions case in Shuoxi is indeed of great significance. In the best-case scenario, the Emperor had already received wind of it—after all, the case had been brewing for months. However, the Emperor knew that, with the Empress and the Crown Prince’s influence, it would be impossible to bring down key officials like Zhang Qide, whom the Crown Prince relied on. So, the Emperor bided his time, waiting for an opportunity. The corpse case at Prince Jin Manor provided that opportunity. After the Empress was confined, the Emperor seized the moment to expose the provisions case. Without the Empress to manage the situation, the Crown Prince’s faction reacted too slowly. I suspect not only Zhang Qide but other military commanders the Crown Prince depends on, even the Northern Garrison Army, will be implicated."

Qin Guan held her breath, a chill running down her spine.If Yan Chi's deduction were true, then the Great Zhou Emperor's scheming would be deeper than the abyssal sea!

The military provisions case had erupted months ago, and Yuwen Xian had long arrived at the Northwest Frontier Army, yet no useful information had been sent back. If the Emperor had secretly received intelligence reports earlier, he should have been furious, yet he concealed all his emotions, waiting until the skeletal remains case implicated the Empress, causing the Crown Prince's faction to lose focus and miss their opportunity!

What remarkable forbearance and calculation! Yan Huai had been emperor for twenty years. When one remains in a high position for long, wielding immense power, "patience" often becomes a dispensable skill. Yet Yan Huai still possessed it. Qin Guan pursed her lips. "You said this is the better scenario. What about the worse one?"

Yan Chi replied, "If what I just said is true, then the Emperor only intends to purge the disloyal officials within the Crown Prince's faction, as corruption is a grave crime that harms the nation and its people. However, Zhang Qide is connected to the Northern Garrison Army, the Empress, and the Crown Prince—making it difficult to act against him under normal circumstances. If the situation is worse, then the Emperor's target is not the corrupt officials but the Empress and the Crown Prince. The Crown Prince previously relied on the Assistant General of the State, and over the past year, much evidence of factionalism has emerged. Even Zheng Baishi has joined the Crown Prince's faction, along with the Loyal Marquis Manor. The Emperor is currently in his prime, healthy and vigorous. If he intends to remain on the throne for another decade, the Crown Prince currently wields too much power."

"One hundred thousand Northern Garrison Army troops are comparable to one hundred thousand Northwest Frontier Army soldiers. Add to that Zhang Qide's appointment as the Military Governor of Dingxi..." Qin Guan murmured.

Yan Chi nodded. "That's just the northwest. In the south, the Crown Prince also controls many external officials. Last year, when issues arose in salt transportation, many of his associates were implicated. However, the Empress and the Crown Prince acted decisively, preventing the scandal from affecting the Crown Prince's influence in the capital.Qin Guan recalled the Lianghu Salt Transport Envoy Liu Renli, who was implicated in the salt transportation corruption case during the Yuzhou Gold Heist Case. He had sought to enter the capital through the Loyal Marquis Manor to request the Crown Prince's protection! The Great Zhou Empire was vast, with millions of subjects. Maintaining peace and prosperity across such a massive realm was nearly impossible. Yet salt transportation and the military were the pillars of the state. Corruption in these areas, so rampant and reckless, threatened the very foundation of Great Zhou.

"So, does the Emperor merely intend to suppress the Crown Prince, or...?"

Yan Chi pondered briefly. "It should only be suppression. After all, arbitrarily deposing the Heir Apparent is a grave taboo, especially since the Crown Prince has the support of one hundred thousand Northern Garrison Army troops."

Qin Guan nodded. She thought so too. From all appearances, Yan Che remained the most suitable candidate for Heir Apparent.

"If that's the case, then the Emperor still has no intention of allowing Prince Jin's case to see the light of day."

Qin Guan felt deeply troubled. The skeletal remains case had been an opportunity but had instead become the Emperor's weapon to purge the court. The imperial stratagems Yan Chi had deduced made Qin Guan shudder with fear. If the Emperor was so inscrutable, how could they possibly request a retrial of Prince Jin's case?

Yan Chi stepped forward and gently drew Qin Guan into his embrace. "Don't worry. Even if the last path is blocked, we still have other methods."

Qin Guan looked up at Yan Chi, seeing a sharp, dark intensity in his eyes.

Her pupils trembled slightly. She did not ask what the last path was, merely leaned against Yan Chi's chest."If the Emperor truly knew months ago that Zhang Qide was involved in the military provisions corruption case yet chose to conceal it, then what are his intentions toward you? Also, wasn't it said that a General Chu from the Northwest Frontier Army is also implicated?"

Qin Guan asked quietly. Yan Chi let out a cold laugh. "Whatever he plans to do with me, his attention won't turn to me for now. The Crown Prince's faction hasn't been completely eliminated yet, and the Northern Garrison Army will likely be implicated too. Neither the Eastern Palace nor the Empress will sit idly by."

"General Chu... that's Chu Fei Sheng. He has already left the main camp and should be with Yu Qi now. Chu Fei Sheng was one of the most trusted veteran generals under my father. He has a fiery temper and fights courageously, commanding considerable respect within the Northwest Frontier Army. After my father passed away, if Chu Fei Sheng had remained, most of the veteran generals would have followed his lead. But if he becomes implicated in the corruption case, everyone's trust in him will gradually erode and collapse. Except for those closest to him, others would harbor varying degrees of suspicion."

Qin Guan frowned. "So this is a false accusation, just meant to disrupt the Northwest Frontier Army's morale to gain control over them?"

Yin Chi hummed in agreement. "If anyone in the Northwest Frontier Army is corrupt, it couldn't possibly be him. He married once in his early years, but his wife died from postpartum hemorrhage during childbirth, and the child didn't survive either. At that time, he was still on the northwest battlefield. By the time he received the news, his wife had already been buried for three months. His only family was an elderly father who was deeply dissatisfied and ordered him to resign from his military post and return home. But he refused. In anger, his father fell ill and passed away. He only returned home once before his father's death. After handling the funeral, he still returned to the northwest and never remarried, supporting only a few nephews in his hometown with his salary."

Qin Guan felt a pang of sorrow hearing this. "Will people believe he's involved in corruption?"

Yan Chi said, "Some will inevitably believe it, but it doesn't matter. Once I return to the northwest, I will definitely clear his name."

Qin Guan breathed a sigh of relief. "That's good—"

What difference is there between such a false accusation against a veteran general who sacrificed his family for the country and what happened to her own father?!

To control the northwest, the Emperor wouldn't hesitate to tarnish a veteran general's reputation, nor would he spare the lives of thousands of soldiers in the Northwest Frontier Army. This is the Imperial Arts!

A chill ran through Qin Guan's heart. She suddenly wondered if her own father's death was also a result of the Imperial Arts?

But her father was only a third-rank Minister of the Court of Judicial Review. Although he led an entire office, he wasn't particularly powerful—at least not as sensitive as holding military authority. Yet he still died, and not just him—the entire Shen residence was executed, which was rare even in the capital!

This punishment, akin to exterminating nine clans, was almost identical to the punishment the Fu Clan received years ago for treason. But what great act of treason had her father committed?

There were no records of her father's conversations with Prince Jin, so what else had her father done in private?

Qin Guan had no clues, and these matters were likely known only to her father himself.

Xun Niang and Master Yuan quickly prepared the meal. The food here had always been exquisite and delicious, and Qin Guan ate quite a bit. After the meal, she checked Fan Xin's wounds. Although Fan Xin's injuries had healed, damaged tendons and bones take a hundred days to recover, especially since Fan Xin had nearly lost his life.After prescribing a new medication formula and a dietary supplement regimen, Qin Guan left together with Yan Chi. As it was already late, Yan Chi escorted Qin Guan directly back to the Loyal Marquis Manor.

Yan Chi's words today weighed heavily on Qin Guan's heart. Upon entering the main courtyard, she unexpectedly encountered Qin Ye. This fourth brother was unpredictable in his whereabouts, and his attitude toward her fluctuated between closeness and distance. However, having not seen him for many days, Qin Guan still stopped to greet him, "Fourth Brother, you're back so early today?"

Qin Ye looked at Qin Guan with a teasing smile, "Why are you back so late? I heard Prince Rui came by?"

Noticing the jest in his eyes, Qin Guan cleared her throat lightly, "Yes, I just stepped out for a moment."

Qin Ye drew out an "Oh" meaningfully, "Not yet married, but your heart already lies beyond the manor..."

Before he could finish, his tone turned sincere, "But it's actually quite good."

Then he glanced toward the study, "Father gave instructions, that's why I returned early."

Qin Guan raised an eyebrow slightly, "What did Uncle ask Fourth Brother to do?"

As soon as she asked, she realized it was inappropriate—Qin Shu's instructions were naturally confidential, and her question was too direct.

Qin Ye indeed chuckled, "You want to know?"

Just as Qin Guan was about to speak, Qin Ye stepped closer and lowered his voice, "You must know about the military provisions case, right? The Empress and the Eastern Palace are in a difficult position, and Father is very anxious."

Qin Guan hadn't expected Qin Ye to share this. Though he didn't specify the exact task, it was clear that Qin Shu was assisting the Eastern Palace. Hearing this, Qin Guan recalled Yan Chi's words. After a brief contemplation, she asked, "Does Fourth Brother think the Eastern Palace can smoothly overcome this crisis?"

The smile faded from Qin Ye's face, and after a moment, he shook his head, "I'm not sure about that. But since Chao Yu is the Crown Princess, our family is firmly aligned with the Crown Prince's faction. At this critical juncture, we can only support the Eastern Palace. Why, does Ninth Sister have any instructions?"

The word "instructions" made Qin Guan's heart tighten—it was as if Qin Ye was certain she knew something more.

Qin Guan shook her head, "No instructions. It's just that this incident is significant, and the Emperor cannot indefinitely indulge the Crown Prince. Although Eighth Sister married the Crown Prince, the Loyal Marquis Manor is not his vassal. In crucial moments, it's better to prioritize the manor's interests."

Qin Ye's eyebrows shot up high. Though she claimed to have no instructions, her meaning was unmistakable.

He nodded thoughtfully, "Don't worry, I understand."

Qin Guan said no more and took her leave from Qin Ye, returning to the Pine Breeze Courtyard.