Coroner's Diary

In the Ministry of Justice, Yan Chi sat with a stern expression in the study assigned to him, listening quietly to Bai Feng's report.

"After Lord Shen arrived in the capital, although he holds the third-rank official position, Lady Shen and their daughter rarely appeared in public. Moreover, the eldest daughter of the Shen family spends half of each year in Medicine King Valley, so there is even less information about her in the capital."

"On the two rare occasions she went out, one was when the eldest daughter of the Shen family attended the Dragon Boat Festival banquet at Anyang Marquis' residence, accompanied by Lady Shen. The other was when she attended the wedding banquet of the former Vice Minister of the Ministry of Justice, Wang Yangmeng's granddaughter. On both occasions, the eldest daughter of the Shen family appeared to be reserved and reclusive, causing no incidents and leaving little impression on others. As for the matter of selecting her as Prince Yong's princess consort, it likely originated after a palace banquet two years ago."

"When I investigated, I found that the people in the Empress's palace had little impression of the eldest daughter of the Shen family. However, a young eunuch close to the Crown Prince mentioned that Prince Yong might have seen her somewhere other than the palace banquet, which sparked his interest. Moreover, selecting the eldest daughter of the Shen family as the princess consort was the Crown Prince's idea. Lord Shen's official rank is neither high nor low, and the Crown Prince used the excuse of winning over common-born officials to persuade the Empress. In reality, the Empress was not in favor of this marriage. She believed that although common-born officials had risen in status, their influence was still limited, and many who claimed to be common-born actually relied on noble families. Initially, the Empress intended to select from among the noble families and had her heart set on the eldest daughter of the Loyal and Brave Marquis' family."

"The Crown Prince rarely disagreed with the Empress over the years, but on this matter, he was particularly insistent. In the end, the Empress yielded to his wishes. After the engagement was settled, the Shen family showed little reaction, and many who came to offer congratulations were turned away. After that, the eldest daughter of the Shen family entered the palace twice—once to express gratitude and once to attend a palace banquet. The Empress, having seen her more often, grew less displeased and later bestowed many gifts upon her."

"Even so, the eldest daughter of the Shen family remained largely secluded. It was not until the Shen family encountered trouble. By then, Prince Jin's case had already been exposed for a month. Shen Yi, as the chief investigator, initially pursued evidence vigorously. Later, for reasons unknown—perhaps something Prince Jin said to him—he began to delay the progress, claiming there were still unresolved doubts in the case. Dozens of people in the palace had witnessed Prince Jin standing before Consort Jin's corpse, so his statement naturally aroused suspicion."

"Rumors that Lord Shen had private dealings with Prince Jin and was shielding him emerged around that time. Once the rumors spread, they inevitably implicated the Crown Prince. The Empress protected the Crown Prince but did nothing to assist Lord Shen, perhaps because Lord Shen had always been known for his integrity and had many supporters in the court. Later, the case stalled for over half a month. Others wanted to close the case, but Lord Shen insisted there were unresolved issues. It was only when a memorial from Li Muyun appeared on the Emperor's desk that the situation changed.""The memorial was submitted on the evening of July 18th. The Emperor summoned Li Muyun for a confidential discussion lasting half a day on July 19th. On the night of July 20th, precisely in the early hours of July 21st, the Shen family met with disaster. No one knows what was written in that memorial—not even Eunuch Yuan had seen it. It's said that on the evening of July 18th, the Emperor burned something in Chongzheng Hall. The night-duty eunuchs outside were ordered to bring in a brazier and tinderbox... I suspect what was burned must have been that very memorial."

Bai Feng's voice was hushed to an extreme degree. Even though only he and Yan Chi were in this small study, and even though guards were posted outside, these words—along with the detailed investigation into Chongzheng Hall and the Emperor's daily activities—were not meant for others' ears.

Yan Chi listened, his eyes cold and deep as still water. "If it were a routine memorial, the Emperor wouldn't have burned it."

"Indeed, I find this very strange as well. By protocol, all memorials should be retained in the palace, with copies made by the eunuchs for storage in the imperial archives. Yet this particular memorial has vanished without a trace. Moreover, Li Muyun never revealed to anyone the crux of his impeachment. Because of this, some officials secretly wrote satirical pieces accusing Li Muyun of falsely incriminating Lord Shen. But after Lord Shen's entire family was executed and Prince Jin's faction in the capital was purged, others dared not speak further. Li Muyun himself never offered any explanation..."

After Bai Feng finished speaking, the room fell into complete silence.

This was highly abnormal. If Li Muyun were upright and believed impeaching Shen Yi was justified, then the memorial should contain nothing shameful for him. But if it were false accusation, how could the Emperor have allowed Li Muyun—then Deputy Minister of the Court of Judicial Review—to casually slander a third-rank Minister of the Court of Judicial Review?!

Yan Chi lightly tapped the corner of the desk. He desperately wanted to know what was written in that memorial!

"Continue investigating that memorial. It couldn't have bypassed the eunuchs' hands—it's just that no one dares speak given the Emperor's attitude. Also, look into the Shen family's eldest young lady. Try to uncover matters from before she entered the capital—report both major and minor details."

Bai Feng was momentarily stunned. Investigating Prince Jin's case and Shen Yi was understandable, but why investigate the Shen family's eldest young lady?

Could she have been involved in Prince Jin's case?

Bai Feng startled himself with this thought, then immediately dismissed it as impossible. He promptly acknowledged the order without further contemplation.

Yan Chi's phoenix eyes narrowed slightly. Since learning Qin Guan's deeply buried secret, he had issued numerous commands these past few days...

He wanted to know everything about Qin Guan's past. The fact that Qin Guan had once been selected as Prince Yong's principal consort particularly displeased him. When she was still Shen Wan, the Crown Prince had chosen her. Now that she was the Qin family's Ninth Miss, the Crown Prince was again...

Yan Chi gritted his teeth. This "coincidence" made the Crown Prince appear devoted, yet the former Crown Prince couldn't protect the Shen family or her. The current Crown Prince didn't dare confront his own feelings and couldn't muster any resistance. In Yan Chi's view, the Crown Prince wasn't worthy of coveting Qin Guan!

"Are none of Lord Shen's former close subordinates to be found?"Bai Feng shook his head, "Only that Zhao Xun remains. Zhao Xun was Lord Shen's assistant, responsible for helping him record examination reports, organize case files and documents. After Lord Shen's incident, he was also detained for questioning. However, Lord Shen hadn't involved him in many matters, so he wasn't convicted. There were a few others who also served as assistants—two were sentenced to exile and died during the journey, while another was directly sentenced to execution."

Although Yan Chi hadn't returned when the incident occurred, he was still aware of how much bloodshed the Prince Jin case had caused. Frowning in thought, he felt the matter was fraught with peculiarities.

Whether it was the muddled conviction at the time, Prince Jin's "suicide out of guilt," or the Emperor's handling of Li Muyun's memorial, everything seemed strange. No one could see the truth behind the Prince Jin case, as these events appeared to conceal something...

Yan Chi was almost certain that Prince Jin's case indeed involved royal secrets, but it couldn't possibly be the rumored affair between Prince Jin and Consort Jin.

If not that, then what could it be?

As he pondered, a knock came from outside. A guard announced, "Your Highness, Yongci County Princess is here."

At these words, the gloom in Yan Chi's eyes instantly lifted. Bai Feng saw it clearly and felt a trace of relief in his heart. His master was now alone in the world, but fortunately, Yongci County Princess and his master were deeply attached to each other. Bai Feng turned to open the door, while Yan Chi personally went out to greet Qin Guan.

Qin Guan had just entered the second ceremonial gate of the government office, led by a minor official, when she saw Yan Chi striding toward her. She couldn't help but smile. Since she had revealed that secret, she felt her relationship with Yan Chi had grown even closer. Now, whenever their eyes met, Qin Guan always felt Yan Chi could see straight into her heart. She no longer needed any guard or caution, and Yan Chi perfectly maintained boundaries—no matter how much he understood privately, he was always more open and gentle in her presence.

The rear office was sparsely populated, so Yan Chi unhesitatingly took her hand. "There's something I need to tell you."

Qin Guan smiled, "Coincidentally, I also have something to tell you."

Yan Chi led Qin Guan to the study. Bai Feng tactfully withdrew to guard the door. Yan Chi then pulled Qin Guan into his embrace. "You go first."

Qin Guan said directly, "As I mentioned last time, Senior Brother Sun wants to erect a cenotaph. I've already asked Han Bo to help find a suitable location. We can go in two or three days. I was wondering if you'd like to accompany me?"

Qin Guan looked up at Yan Chi, whose eyes softened. He couldn't resist leaning down to kiss her lips twice.

Qin Guan endured it helplessly for a moment before murmuring as Yan Chi pulled away, "I'm asking you about serious matters."

Yan Chi smiled contentedly, "Of course I'll go. I'm happy you asked me."

Qin Guan looked at him, amused and exasperated. It was just a small matter, but after all, it involved erecting a cenotaph. According to Taoist beliefs, establishing a cenotaph would give her father and mother a place for their spirits to return. She wanted her parents to meet Yan Chi then.

She hadn't expected Yan Chi to be so happy about it...

Qin Guan added, "What did you want to tell me?"

Naturally, Yan Chi didn't ask Qin Guan under what circumstances she had previously met the Crown Prince. Though this matter displeased him, he instinctively didn't want Qin Guan to recall past events. Having gone through such experiences, Qin Guan's change of identity was ultimately beneficial for her.Yan Chi then only told Qin Guan about the discovered matter of Li Muyun submitting a memorial. After hearing this, Qin Guan frowned. "Actually, I've long had doubts. Back then, no one knew what crime my father had committed, nor what evidence Li Muyun had found. Now that you mention this, it becomes even more peculiar. Unless it involves some secret, how could an emperor burn a memorial submitted by his subject?"

Yan Chi nodded. "Now, only Li Muyun and the Emperor know what was written in that memorial."

Qin Guan's expression turned serious. "We needn't consider the Emperor, and Li Muyun wouldn't be willing to speak either. When I met him last time, he appeared particularly cautious about this matter, even warning me not to get involved. However, didn't he stop mid-sentence back then? That might be the crucial point!"

Li Muyun was clearly being extremely careful with his concealment, which meant this memorial might forever remain an unsolved case.

"I've ordered people to continue investigating. The incident happened just over a year ago, not particularly long ago. I'll inform you if there's any news."

Hearing this, Qin Guan felt somewhat relieved, but then she thought of something else and asked, "Do you know about Princess Consort Yi?"

"Princess Consort Yi?" Yan Chi was somewhat surprised, not understanding why Qin Guan suddenly asked about Princess Consort Yi.

Qin Guan nodded, hesitating slightly. "Yesterday at the royal residence of Prince Yi, I heard the heir apparent mention Princess Consort Yi. She was originally an outer disciple of Medicine King Valley. After mastering medicine, she saved the Emperor, but then she suddenly fell ill and passed away. Although it's said that physicians can't heal themselves, as a doctor, she couldn't have been completely unaware of her own condition. Moreover, the princess consort was only twenty years old at that time, making sudden death from serious illness unlikely."

Yan Chi focused his gaze. "You think there's something suspicious about this?"

Qin Guan smiled wryly. "Perhaps I'm just overthinking out of habit." Seeing Yan Chi looking at her, she explained further, "Since I was very young, I've watched my father perform corpse examinations and solve cases. Even at a young age, I wasn't afraid. On the contrary, like any child curious about new things, I followed my father's reasoning. Seeing that I had talent in this area, he didn't hide things from me, though he lamented that I wasn't born male. Although human life is fragile, there aren't that many accidents in this world. Especially after seeing many homicide cases, whenever I hear about someone's death, I wonder if that person was murdered. Over time, my suspicion has only grown stronger."

Yan Chi understood completely, and hearing Qin Guan voluntarily speak about her past made him even more pleased. "I know what you mean. However, when Princess Consort Yi's incident occurred, I was even younger. Later, my father rarely mentioned Princess Consort Yi because... my mother also had an incident after that."

Qin Guan frowned slightly. Yan Chi smiled bitterly. "You don't think my mother also..."

Qin Guan immediately looked embarrassed upon hearing this. "No, no, I wouldn't randomly speculate about the princess consort's affairs."

Yan Chi curved his lips. "I know very little about Princess Consort Yi's matters, but I do know about my mother. Her health had been poor since giving birth to me. She didn't die suddenly."Qin Guan wrapped her arms around Yan Chi's waist. "I understand. If you don't know much about it, forget it. I was just suddenly curious. Hearing the words of Prince Yi's heir apparent the other day, I always felt that Princess Consort Yi was a very formidable and legendary figure. If she were still here, she would have surely cured the heir apparent's eye condition much earlier."

Yan Chi gently stroked Qin Guan's back. "Is Third Brother's eye condition putting a lot of pressure on you?"

Qin Guan gave a bitter smile and suddenly looked up at Yan Chi. "Actually, sometimes I feel the heir apparent's eyes have already healed."

"Hmm?" Yan Chi seemed surprised. "Why do you say that?"

Qin Guan pursed her lips. "I can't quite explain it—just a feeling. Besides, neither Senior Brother Sun nor I can find any remaining issues to treat. Yet the heir apparent still can't see, and Yue Ning looks particularly anxious about it."

Yan Chi brushed his hand over the back of Qin Guan's head. "You've done your best. Without you, Third Brother's eye condition would likely have dragged on even longer. Perhaps now it's just waiting for the right opportunity."

Qin Guan hummed in agreement and suddenly said, "Things are so good now..."

Yan Chi looked puzzled, but Qin Guan pressed her cheek against his chest and closed her eyes slightly. "I can finally call him 'Father' out loud."

Yan Chi froze for a moment, then immediately tightened his embrace. He understood what Qin Guan meant.

In the past, Qin Guan could only address him as "Lord Shen" in front of others. Now, at least when she was with him, she could call Shen Yi "Father." Yan Chi held her comfortingly. "It wasn't easy for you to say it aloud. This is good now."

This was originally an earth-shattering secret, but now that Qin Guan had confided in Yan Chi, it felt as if this shocking secret had found a safe place to rest, and she felt very much at peace. "I originally thought I would never tell a second person in my lifetime. I was afraid others would see me as some kind of monster."

Yan Chi chuckled softly. "From now on, you mustn't tell a third person. It's enough that you and I know."

Qin Guan hummed softly in agreement. She could never trust anyone else the way she trusted Yan Chi!

...

...

When Qin Guan entered the palace, Yan Ze and Yue Ning were already in the Longevity and Health Palace.

The Empress Dowager held a book in her hands, reading with great interest, and she explained its origin to Qin Guan. "This book is the one the Emperor and Prince Yi bet on all those years ago. It's been over twenty years now. The Emperor has preserved it well—you can still see the late Emperor's handwriting on it."

As she spoke, the Empress Dowager showed it to Qin Guan. Qin Guan naturally played along attentively. Looking closely, she saw several different styles of handwriting on the chess manual. The Empress Dowager pointed them out one by one. "This is the late Emperor's writing, this is the Emperor's, and this here should be Yan Ze's father's. Back then, the Emperor and Yan Ze's father were completely obsessed with it."

The Empress Dowager laughed as she spoke. "But it was also because both of them enjoyed it. Sometimes people are like that—if you're the only one who likes something, you might not stay interested for long. But if there's someone else around, especially someone determined to compete with you, then you're bound to delve deeper into it."

Qin Guan examined it carefully. The late Emperor's handwriting was vigorous and powerful, Prince Yi's was elegant and flowing, while the Emperor's writing appeared refined and dignified, yet with a restrained sharpness that was pleasing to the eye. They say handwriting reflects one's character, and indeed, it seemed true in this case.

The Empress Dowager boasted, "The Emperor's handwriting is quite beautiful, isn't it?"

Qin Guan had no choice but to agree. "It's very beautiful! It suits the Emperor's temperament perfectly."The Empress Dowager was satisfied, her smile growing even wider. "Indeed, back then the Emperor was only in his teens, certainly not yet twenty, yet his calligraphy was already so excellent. This is extremely rare. His temperament is also uncommon among the imperial family, which is why the late Emperor was very fond of him."

Qin Guan added, "This is all due to Your Majesty's excellent upbringing..."

The Empress Dowager smiled gently, but thinking of Prince Gong, who was also her own son, she sighed. "Initially, I shared the late Emperor's view that the eldest son's temperament was most suitable for the throne, so I devoted more attention to him. Who would have thought..."

Though the Empress Dowager's words were vague, Qin Guan could discern she was lamenting Prince Gong's situation and thus said no more, instead engaging Her Majesty in conversation about chess manuals.

Yan Ze, listening nearby to their exchange, appeared lost in thought. Yue Ning leaned closer and asked, "What are you thinking about, Third Brother?"

Yan Ze smiled. "I also saw the Emperor's calligraphy when I was young. At that time, he hadn't yet ascended the throne, and his excellent handwriting was used as a model by my Hanlin Academy tutor. Even my maternal grandfather praised the Emperor's calligraphy highly. After all these years, I was wondering what his handwriting looks like now!"

A shadow crossed Yue Ning's eyes. Knowing the Emperor's current handwriting would be simple enough, but unfortunately Yan Ze could no longer see it. In his heart, he could only recall the Emperor's calligraphy from over a decade ago. Meanwhile, the Empress Dowager said, "The Emperor's handwriting has changed somewhat now. After all, he's older and has held power for many years. His mindset has shifted. Although his current writing carries more authority, in my view, it lacks the elegance and delicate beauty it once possessed. Ah, the Emperor has worked hard all these years."

Having long occupied the highest position of authority, and as the Son of Heaven at that, changes in mindset were inevitable. From his initial ascension to the present, Yan Huai had thoroughly mastered the Imperial Arts. His methods and political balancing acts were far beyond what they once were, naturally leading to changes in all his habits, including his handwriting. The Empress Dowager's tone carried both nostalgia and concern as she added, "The Emperor is now so busy he doesn't even have time for a single game of chess with me..."

Yan Ze comforted her gently, "Even ordinary heads of households find it difficult to manage their own homes properly, let alone the Emperor who must govern the entire Great Zhou. The Emperor has always been diligent, and those around him dare not advise him too much. Naturally, he has lost interest in past pleasures."

The Empress Dowager, already concerned, felt moved upon hearing this.

Indeed, no one around the Emperor dared to advise him, but she was his mother. He would surely listen to her words.

"This won't do. At my age, I know to cultivate more interests for myself, yet he has become even more solemn than I am." Having said this, the Empress Dowager instructed Mammy Chen, "Go to Chongzheng Hall and see. If there are no council meetings tonight, have the Emperor come dine with me."

Mammy Chen nodded in acknowledgment. The Empress Dowager set down the book in her hand and said, "Come, Yan Ze, let's play a game with your grandmother!"

As a new chess game began, Qin Guan watched for a moment before going out to look for Yan Sui. However, Yan Sui wasn't at the Longevity and Health Palace today. Upon inquiry, she learned he had gone to the Imperial College to receive instruction from the elders of the Bai clan. Feeling pleased inwardly, Qin Guan was about to turn back when she spotted a figure flashing through the palace gate—it was actually Qin Chaoyu!Qin Chaoyu was momentarily taken aback upon seeing Qin Guan. She knew Qin Guan was deeply favored by the Empress Dowager and was the true frequent visitor to the Longevity and Health Palace, yet the two of them had rarely crossed paths. Mammy Chen emerged and, noticing Qin Chaoyu, hurried forward to pay her respects before turning and saying, "Lady, you and the Crown Princess are sisters. May I trouble you to attend to Her Highness the Crown Princess? This servant must make a trip to Chongzheng Hall."

Mammy Chen was leaving precisely to carry out the Empress Dowager’s earlier instructions, and Qin Guan naturally agreed.

Though Qin Chaoyu was the Crown Princess and often resided in the palace, Mammy Chen’s request for Qin Guan to attend to Qin Chaoyu now clearly highlighted the distinction between closeness and distance.

Qin Chaoyu stepped forward with a smile, "Have you come to the palace today to check the Empress Dowager’s pulse?"

Qin Guan nodded, "Yes... Her Majesty is currently playing a game of chess with Eminent Son Yan Ze. Would Eighth Sister like to go in?"

Qin Chaoyu studied Qin Guan for a moment, then shook her head. "Let's not disturb them for now. It's been a long time since we sisters last saw each other. Shall we talk?"

Qin Guan nodded, and Qin Chaoyu gestured with her chin toward the side courtyard.

As Qin Guan walked along the covered corridor and entered the side courtyard, she suddenly recalled that this was where Qin Chaoyu had last seen her with Yan Che and subsequently confronted her. At that time, Qin Chaoyu had not yet become the Crown Princess. Now that Qin Chaoyu had achieved what she wanted, surely she wouldn't lose her temper again?

With this thought, Qin Chaoyu spoke softly, "Your wedding with Prince Rui is approaching. How are the preparations going?"

Mentioning this, Qin Guan replied frankly, "My aunt is handling all the preparations. Naturally, there won't be any mistakes."

Qin Chaoyu smiled. "Now that I'm married, Father and Mother treat you as their own daughter. When the time comes, I'll give you an extra dowry gift to ensure you have a splendid wedding."

Qin Guan didn't particularly care about such things, but since Qin Chaoyu seemed well-intentioned, she could only say, "That's very thoughtful of you."

Qin Chaoyu paused mid-step and turned to look at Qin Guan. Qin Guan stopped, slightly puzzled. "What is it?"

Qin Chaoyu sighed. "Are you aware of the recent affairs at court?"

"The military provisions case?" Qin Guan reacted quickly, and with this question, she already knew what Qin Chaoyu was about to say.

Qin Chaoyu smiled as expected. "Since you know, you must also realize that the Crown Prince is in a difficult position now?"

Qin Guan nodded but remained silent. Qin Chaoyu glanced toward the main hall of the Longevity and Health Palace and said, "When Zhang Qide was imprisoned that day, Her Majesty summoned me and the Crown Prince for a talk. She said that Zhang Qide's matter had nothing to do with His Highness and advised him not to protect Zhang Qide. Do you know what that means?"

Qin Guan nearly laughed bitterly. "I don't understand political affairs. Why are you telling me this...?"

"Her Majesty's meaning is that regardless of whether Zhang Qide's matter is related to the Crown Prince or not, His Highness must no longer intervene. Moreover, his position will not be shaken in the slightest. Appointing an heir is no trivial matter. Since the Crown Prince is the Heir Apparent of Great Zhou, she will definitely protect him."

Qin Chaoyu seemed not to have heard Qin Guan's words and continued as if talking to herself. "The Empress Dowager is the only one in the inner court who openly supports the Crown Prince. Although I am the Crown Princess, in Her Majesty's eyes, I am not as close to her as you are. So, Qin Guan, you can help both Her Majesty the Empress and the Crown Prince."

Qin Guan looked at Qin Chaoyu as if she didn't recognize her. Seeing Qin Guan's astonished expression, Qin Chaoyu instead smiled. "What's wrong? I'm asking for your help. Is that so strange?"

It was no wonder Qin Guan was surprised. Qin Chaoyu was inherently proud to the bone. For her to lower her head one day was as difficult as climbing to the heavens.

Qin Chaoyu smiled self-deprecatingly. "There's no need to look at me like that. If I had a choice, I wouldn't do this either. But the current situation at court is very unfavorable to the Crown Prince. As the Crown Princess, I am unable to help. So, I will do whatever I can think of. It's as simple as that."

Qin Guan felt a complex mix of emotions inside. Looking at Qin Chaoyu's calm expression, she suddenly noticed that the brilliance and arrogance that once defined the former top talent of the capital had faded considerably. Even her brows were slightly furrowed, as if veiled in shadow.Qin Guan was not unwilling to help Qin Chaoyu. Though she disliked her, from Qin Chaoyu's perspective, her actions weren't entirely unjustifiable. However, Qin Guan recognized her inability to intervene in the Crown Prince and Empress's affairs. No matter how much the Empress Dowager favored her, she wouldn't permit casual meddling in imperial matters. Had the Empress Dowager broached the subject herself, it would be different—but since she hadn't mentioned it at all, how could Qin Guan possibly raise it? Moreover, Qin Guan recalled Yan Chi's words: if these troubles were the Emperor's machinations, the situation might be even more dire than Qin Chaoyu imagined.

"It's not that I refuse to help. The Empress Dowager has never spoken of the Crown Prince's matters in my presence. I have neither the status nor the standing to plead for Her Majesty the Empress or His Highness the Crown Prince. In contrast, you are the one who can truly assist the Crown Prince. I cannot speak of how the Empress Dowager was in the past, but since I began treating her ailments, I've found her exceptionally compassionate. Your strategy to seek her aid is sound—but I apologize, I cannot overstep my bounds."

Qin Guan's tone remained calm, yet her refusal was decisive, devoid of empty promises like "I'll do what I can."

Qin Chaoyu narrowed her eyes at Qin Guan. "If you aid the Crown Prince, His Highness will remember your kindness."

Qin Guan laughed softly. "Those aren't your true feelings, nor do you need to test me with such words. Having grown up in the capital, you may believe everyone harbors ulterior motives. But I've long made my stance clear. Whether you trust me or not, I can only say each attempt to probe will leave you disappointed."

Qin Chaoyu's expression grew more complicated. Qin Guan's directness made her feel like a ridiculous spectacle. Pressing her lips together, she remained silent while Qin Guan studied her. After a moment, Qin Guan suddenly smiled with realization. "So that's how it is."

What did she mean by that?!

Qin Chaoyu's eyes widened instinctively, but Qin Guan's gaze only sharpened, brimming with penetrating understanding. Qin Chaoyu's cheeks flushed crimson.

Qin Guan turned away with a sigh. "In this deep palace, indifference is one thing—but once love takes root, suffering follows. Today you're willing to retreat one step for the Crown Prince; how far will you go tomorrow? I originally thought you saw things clearly, that you sought power alone. It seems I misjudged you."

Qin Chaoyu trembled, her pupils contracting as her breathing grew ragged—clearly stung to fury. Yet she seemed unable to form a rebuttal, remaining wordless for a long moment. Qin Guan glanced at her dispassionately and added, "I hope you won't be betrayed."

With another sigh, Qin Guan turned and left the side courtyard.

Qin Chaoyu stood rooted, chest heaving violently. Not only that—she felt her nose tingling and eyes burning, as if inexplicable grievances were about to spill over! And it was all because of Qin Guan's few words...

"I hope you won't be betrayed."

No one had ever said such words to her. Not even her own parents. For a marquis' daughter to become Crown Princess was supreme glory, a consolidation of the household's status. No one ever wondered what her original motivation had been when she resolved to become Crown Princess from the start.

Bearing the title of the capital's top talented lady, hailing from an exalted family—to outsiders, her desire to be Crown Princess might seem merely a pursuit of a marriage worthy of her reputation. But how could it be so simple and shallow?Qin Chaoyu stood frozen in place, using great effort to suppress the moist heat in her eyes.

She suddenly thought, if she hadn't feigned illness to scheme against Qin Guan back then, causing her to be sent to Jinzhou, if she hadn't harbored inexplicable jealousy and dislike for Qin Guan, they could have been much closer sisters. Because only she had noticed...

Qin Guan sighed, then sighed again, completely unexpected that things were like this.

Upon returning to the capital, she immediately noticed Qin Chaoyu was determined to secure the position of Crown Princess. She was radiantly beautiful, proud and dazzling - such a girl naturally wanted the best of everything. Wanting the best husband was only human nature. According to conventional thinking, the Crown Prince held high position and great power, being the Heir Apparent of the nation. Marrying him would naturally be the first choice, so Qin Chaoyu naturally took becoming the Crown Princess as her goal.

But Qin Guan never expected she genuinely liked Yan Che.

Before today, Qin Guan had never considered this possibility. But in that moment just now, she saw grievance and loneliness in Qin Chaoyu's eyes, yet not a trace of humiliation. She had come willingly to speak these words, solely to help Yan Che out of his predicament.

Qin Guan sighed again. Her final words had been sincere.

Qin Guan returned to the Warm Chamber. The Empress Dowager and Yan Ze were still playing chess. After watching for a while, Qin Guan heard the sounds of people outside paying respects to Qin Chaoyu. Seeing Qin Chaoyu arrive, the Empress Dowager appeared quite pleased and immediately asked, "What is Yan Che doing?"

Qin Chaoyu now appeared dignified and elegant, smiling as she replied, "His Highness is handling court affairs in the Eastern Palace. As for the specifics, your servant doesn't know."

The Empress Dowager didn't mind this. Qin Chaoyu was the Crown Princess - if she knew every detail of Yan Che's activities, that would be problematic.

The Empress Dowager hadn't finished her game yet. Hearing this, she looked at Qin Chaoyu and asked, "Are you skilled at chess?"

Qin Chaoyu smiled somewhat sheepishly, "I only know a little..."

Qin Guan laughed, "Empress Dowager, the Crown Princess knows more than just a little. She was once called the capital's top talented lady, proficient in all four arts of the zither, chess, calligraphy and painting."

The Empress Dowager smiled and beckoned Qin Chaoyu to sit beside her. Pointing at the chessboard, she began discussing the Path of chess with Qin Chaoyu. Qin Chaoyu glanced at Qin Guan, complex emotions in her eyes. Since the Empress Dowager highly valued Yan Che, she naturally placed great expectations on Qin Chaoyu as well. Seeing Qin Chaoyu visiting frequently these days, she was willing to be closer to her.

The afternoon passed this way. When Qin Guan and Yue Ning were about to take their leave, the Empress Dowager kept Qin Chaoyu behind to play chess with her.

As they left the Longevity and Health Palace, Yue Ning said, "You really want to help your eighth sister..."

Qin Guan chuckled, "What help? Her chess skills are truly excellent."

Yue Ning smiled and shook her head without further comment. The group left the palace and returned to their respective residences without another word.

The Empress Dowager's interest had been piqued these past few days. It wasn't until night was about to fall that she finally released Qin Chaoyu to return to the Eastern Palace. Not long after Qin Chaoyu left, the Emperor arrived belatedly at the Longevity and Health Palace. After the mother and son had dinner together, the Empress Dowager kept Yan Huai to talk. Yan Huai didn't visit the Longevity and Health Palace often, but was happy to accompany the Empress Dowager. He accompanied her to the Warm Chamber to relax. The Empress Dowager smiled and instructed Mammy Chen, "Bring the chessboard..."

Mammy Chen complied, and soon the chessboard was set up.

Yan Huai raised an eyebrow, "Does Mother wish to play chess?"Mammy Chen chuckled beside them, "Your Majesty doesn't know, but the Empress Dowager has been quite spirited these past few days. She has Eminent Son Yan Ze accompanying her for chess every day, and today even kept the Crown Princess for a game. Her Majesty pities your exhaustion and wishes for you to rest here a while longer."

Yan Huai curved his lips, "Mother's energy has been good lately—this is a blessing." As he spoke, he reached for a white piece, "It's just that I haven't touched these in so long."

The Empress Dowager grew even more concerned, "Precisely because you spend entire days handling court affairs, I summoned you here. Keeping an old woman company for a meal and a few rounds of chess counts as rest for you. Otherwise, how late were you planning to review memorials tonight?"

Yan Huai remained nonchalant, "They must be dealt with sooner or later."

The Empress Dowager studied Yan Huai, her gaze catching the wrinkles on his face and a strand of frost-white hair at his temple. She sighed and made the first move. Though they were playing chess, she intermittently conversed with the Emperor about the Empress's confinement. After a brief pause, Yan Huai responded, "This matter isn't urgent. You're aware of Zhang Qide's situation. If the Empress were to emerge now, she would likely interfere extensively..."

Yan Huai's frankness left the Empress Dowager with little to add. Moreover, she knew well how the Empress had restrained Yan Che and obstructed court affairs over the years—actions she herself disapproved of. Thus, she let the matter drop and focused on the game.

The Empress Dowager wasn't fully invested in this round, especially since she hadn't played against the Emperor in days and had no intention of insisting on victory. Yet, after just over fifty moves, Yan Huai showed signs of impending defeat. The Empress Dowager smiled wryly, "Emperor, I may be old, but I'm not yet at the point where you need to humor me like this."

Yan Huai replied indifferently, "I'm not holding back, Mother. It's truly been too long—my skills have rusted."

The first game concluded quickly with Yan Huai genuinely losing. As the second began, the Empress Dowager concentrated more on the board, remembering how Yan Huai had once been obsessed with the Path of chess and surpassed her in skill. However, this match ended in under the time it takes to drink two cups of tea, with the outcome decided once more. Compared to his former prowess, the Empress Dowager felt Yan Huai had significantly declined, not even employing the simple tactics he once favored.

The Empress Dowager shot Yan Huai a stern look, "This last game, play properly. No more concessions."

Yan Huai laughed lightly, "I've forgotten all I used to know. I truly am not yielding, Mother. I've aged now, and my mind can only hold so much—there's no question of holding back. If anything, you remain as sharp as ever, and I gladly admit defeat."

This praise delighted the Empress Dowager. In the third game, she secretly gave Yan Huai some leeway, not only conceding but setting two traps to see if he would fall for them. She expected him to see through such simple ploys instantly, yet to her surprise, he walked right into them, losing a large cluster of white pieces in moments. In chess, true enjoyment comes from a well-matched opponent. Winning so effortlessly left the Empress Dowager not only bored but also unsettled. If Yan Huai weren't sitting right before her, she would scarcely believe his skills had deteriorated to this extent.As one ages, memory inevitably declines, and Yan Huai indeed had too many matters weighing on his mind. Yet, the Yan Huai of the past had once been deeply enamored with the Path of chess. Though his passion had waned over the years, it was something he had once devoted himself to mastering, and the subconscious habits formed during that time could not be erased. Seeing how late the hour had grown, the Empress Dowager did not detain Yan Huai after the third game concluded. Once Yan Huai had departed, she gazed at the black and white pieces on the board, lost in thought.

Could it be that she was overthinking things?

With this reflection, the Empress Dowager realized she did not know how long it had been since Yan Huai last engaged with the Path of chess.

After a brief moment of contemplation, she first felt she had not been attentive enough to Yan Huai, then resolved to find someone to inquire thoroughly.

Though Yan Huai had been emperor for twenty years and had many consorts by his side, she disliked Feng LingSu, and the Empress was one who preferred to focus her attention on court affairs. If one were to speak of anyone who truly shared a deep, mutual understanding and affection with Yan Huai, there was truly no such person. With this thought, the Empress Dowager sighed. It was often said that the emperor favored Consort Feng, but she saw clearly that while there had been favor over the years, when it came to matters of principle, the emperor’s judgment remained sharp—this was what comforted her most. If one were to say the emperor treated anyone differently, it was likely only his affection for Consort Jin that felt more genuine. Alas, Consort Jin had met with misfortune...

The Empress Dowager sighed again, her heart aching even more for Yan Huai.