Coroner's Diary

As Lu Jingxiu followed Huang Momo through the door, his gaze immediately fell upon Qin Guan.

Qin Guan and Lu Boyi were seated on the low couch by the window. Lu Boyi’s hand rested on the soft cushion of the couch table, while Qin Guan’s fingertips had just withdrawn from his wrist.

The flickering lamplight by the window cast a warm glow on Qin Guan’s jade-like complexion, accentuating her delicate, porcelain-like features. Her clear, star-bright eyes shimmered with a captivating radiance as she softly inquired about Lu Boyi’s condition, her voice as melodious as a babbling brook. In that instant, Lu Jingxiu’s heart thumped violently, and a wave of warm, fragrant emotion spread through his chest, his gaze toward Qin Guan growing intense and fervent.

“Do you feel chest pain, especially when coughing?”

Qin Guan continued her questioning. Lu Boyi replied, “There is some pain, particularly on the left side. Sometimes it even hurts when pressure is applied. Cough, cough, cough—”

As Lu Boyi spoke, he broke into another coughing fit. Qin Guan studied his complexion closely, her brow furrowing. “Do you experience chest tightness, shortness of breath, or pain radiating to both shoulders?”

Lu Boyi nodded repeatedly. “The Miracle Doctor has described all my symptoms accurately. I also feel unusually cold.”

Qin Guan frowned slightly. “Feeling cold is normal. When pathogenic wind invades the lungs, the body tends to be cold rather than warm. You must avoid exposure to cold, especially during this harsh winter. Take extra care.”

Lu Boyi nodded earnestly. Noticing Qin Guan’s serious expression, he asked tentatively, “Dare I ask, Miracle Doctor, is there no hope for my recovery?”

Qin Guan looked momentarily taken aback. Lu Boyi, however, smiled calmly and explained, “Lately, I’ve had this inexplicable premonition that this illness may be incurable.”

At this, Lu Youxin quickly rose to his feet. “Fifth Brother, what are you saying? Do you not realize… the Miracle Doctor before you possesses extraordinary medical skills. With her here, you will surely recover. Please rest assured.”

Lu Boyi merely smiled without responding. Qin Guan said gently, “Your condition is indeed serious at the moment, but rest assured, I will do my utmost to treat you.”

Lu Boyi nodded, covering his mouth as another cough escaped. Qin Guan meticulously recorded everything Lu Boyi had described and then asked further, “Do you also suffer from insomnia, skin prickling sensations, or dizziness?”

Lu Boyi’s eyes lit up slightly as he looked at her. “Yes, yes! Ever since the coughing started, I’ve found it extremely difficult to sleep at night.”

Qin Guan had accurately deduced all his symptoms merely by checking his pulse. Both Lu Youxin and Lu Boyi began to feel a glimmer of hope. Qin Guan nodded, noting everything down, but asked no further questions. “Although your condition is severe, it is treatable. I will prescribe two formulas for Medicinal Soup and combine them with acupuncture. With this approach, I believe we can see improvement.”

After a brief pause, she added, “There isn’t enough time for acupuncture tonight. You may return for now, and I will have the prescriptions sent to you shortly.”

Lu Boyi had initially intended to wait for the prescriptions before leaving, but upon hearing Qin Guan’s words, he refrained from commenting. He stood up, expressed his gratitude, exchanged a few words with Lu Youxin, and then departed. Lu Youxin personally escorted Lu Boyi out of the inner chamber, while Qin Guan remained absorbed in reviewing her notes.

Meanwhile, Lu Jingxiu stood motionless, his gaze fixed intently on Qin Guan without so much as a blink.

Voices could be heard from outside as Lu Boyi and his son took their leave. Soon after, Lu Youxin reentered the inner chamber. Seeing Lu Jingxiu standing there like a statue, he frowned and scolded, “What ails you? Have you caught a chill? Knowing full well Guan’er’s status, how dare you ask her to examine you? This is utterly improper!”

Only then did Qin Guan lift her eyes from her notes and turn her attention to Lu Jingxiu.Lu Jingxiu's heart and eyes were originally burning with fervor, yet when he met Qin Guan's gaze, for some reason, his heart inexplicably chilled.

Qin Guan was so composed and self-possessed, her eyes like clear pools that could almost instantly reflect Lu Jingxiu's own image. He hadn't thought himself particularly impolite before, but in that moment, he suddenly felt a pang of guilt, unable to hold her gaze for long and quickly lowering his eyes.

Qin Guan's eyes were not only clear but also cold—Lu Jingxiu saw this plainly. The way she looked at him was no different from how she regarded Lu Boyi; in fact, due to prior circumstances, her gaze lacked even the warmth she had shown Lu Boyi. Hanging his head, Lu Jingxiu wavered between frustration and disappointment, failing to respond to Lu Youxin's question.

Lu Youxin frowned. "Child, I'm asking you a question."

Qin Guan spoke from the side, "Aunt, if he is truly ill, it's no trouble. In my earlier practice of medicine, I treated all patients equally. I'm just unsure what discomfort the Fifth Young Master is experiencing?"

The moment Qin Guan spoke, the overwhelming sense of aloofness made Lu Jingxiu's heart sink even further.

In truth, Qin Guan's demeanor now was not much different from when she had spoken to Lu Boyi earlier, yet Lu Jingxiu distinctly felt her indifference toward him. His heart ached, his hands turned cold, and the fervent hope within him felt as if doused by a bucket of icy water, tightening his throat. After a long pause, Lu Jingxiu finally looked up and said, "I... I have a bit of a headache, and I feel somewhat chilled..."

Qin Guan regarded him calmly. "Any cough?"

While feeling dejected, Lu Jingxiu strained to look into Qin Guan's eyes, exerting all his effort to find a trace of concern in her gaze. Yet after staring for what felt like an eternity, he saw only tranquility and composure in her eyes. Profoundly disappointed, though the room was warm and cozy, he felt his hands and feet growing cold. Shaking his head, his voice softened, "No... none..."

Qin Guan observed him briefly. "The Fifth Young Master's complexion appears normal, with no visible signs of illness. It's likely the onset of a common cold. I can prescribe a remedy for him."

Lu Youxin found Lu Jingxiu somewhat odd and quickly added, "A prescription will suffice. It's been a long time since I've heard of him falling ill. He has a strong constitution and will recover quickly."

As she spoke, Qin Guan took a piece of paper nearby and began writing. It was a very simple prescription—those unfamiliar with medicine wouldn't notice anything, but those knowledgeable would recognize it contained mostly warming and nourishing herbs. Soon, she finished and handed it to Fuling, saying, "Simmer the herbs in cold water, reduce three bowls to one, and take it after each meal."

Fuling brought the prescription to Lu Jingxiu. "Fifth Young Master—"

After speaking, Qin Guan averted her gaze and continued reviewing Lu Boyi's medical records. Lu Jingxiu, however, stared at Qin Guan somewhat dazedly. Fuling frowned. "Fifth Young Master?"

Snapping back to reality, Lu Jingxiu hurriedly accepted the prescription.

When a physician treats an illness, regardless of severity, they always check the pulse. Yet Qin Guan hadn't taken his pulse.

Lu Jingxiu couldn't understand, feeling only disappointment. Perhaps he truly didn't appear ill, or maybe his symptoms weren't severe enough. Or perhaps... Lu Jingxiu widened his eyes at Qin Guan—had she seen through his pretense?!

At this thought, a cold sweat instantly broke out on his back. Yet when he looked at Qin Guan again, her expression remained unchanged.Lu Youxin felt that Lu Jingxiu seemed somewhat dazed at the moment and scolded, "Alright, alright, you may go back now. Have you remembered what I told you last time?"

This was to remind Lu Jingxiu not to reveal Qin Guan's identity. Lu Jingxiu nodded blankly before turning and walking out of the inner chamber.

Seeing Lu Jingxiu emerge looking utterly dejected, Lu Jingyun hurried forward to meet him. "Fifth Brother? How did it go?"

As she spoke, she glanced down and noticed the prescription in Lu Jingxiu's hand, immediately exclaiming with delight, "Oh! She actually treated you!"

Lu Jingxiu couldn't muster a smile and walked heavily toward the door. Though he had often traveled with friends accompanied by women, he had never met anyone like Qin Guan. He had approached with great enthusiasm, but upon seeing her cool, detached gaze, he found himself unable to speak or act. Qin Guan only needed to sit there calmly, and he unconsciously felt a sense of reverence toward her. He was reluctant to admit it, but in that moment, he had felt somewhat intimidated.

"Fifth Brother? What's wrong with you? Did you lose your soul during the consultation?"

Hearing this, Lu Jingxiu let out a long sigh. In the past, as the eldest legitimate son of the third branch of the Lu family, he had been considered a prodigy in the Lan region. Later, as he excelled in martial arts and made friends effortlessly, he became even more arrogant. Never before had anyone made him so preoccupied!

Yes, he had lost his soul—it had remained in the Wutong Garden...

Lu Jingxiu glanced down at the prescription in his hand, feeling both a sense of loss and a faint joy. At least this piece of paper had been touched by her, and these elegant, delicate characters had been written by her. A wave of tenderness washed over him, and after a moment's thought, he carefully folded the prescription and tucked it into his sleeve.

...

...

After Lu Jingxiu left, Qin Guan lifted her gaze toward the entrance, shaking her head with a hint of helplessness.

This Lu Jingxiu was young and not exactly a wastrel. At the very least, when his family faced turmoil, he knew to protect the Lu clan. After learning of his identity, he had prioritized the greater good and avoided causing further trouble—certainly a far cry from that Lu Jingcheng. However, when he had waited halfway to apologize previously, she had found it somewhat strange. Then, with the large bouquet of plum blossoms he had sent later, she had felt an underlying sense of unease. Lu Jingxiu was certainly not foolish; given his self-proclaimed bold and straightforward nature, once their grievances were resolved, he shouldn't have stirred up further complications. That bouquet of plum blossoms had been entirely unnecessary, though she hadn't quite understood why at the time.

It was only now, under the contrast of the gazes of others in the room, that Lu Jingxiu's particularly fervent look had made her vaguely aware of the truth. She found it both amusing and exasperating.

Qin Guan didn't consider herself a stunning beauty capable of inspiring love at first sight, nor could she fathom why this Fifth Young Master regarded her so differently. But there was no need to dwell on it—to her, Lu Jingxiu was merely an ordinary member of the Lu clan, hardly worth her attention.Fortunately, Lu Youxin maintained strict discipline in household affairs, so Qin Guan wouldn't need to encounter Jingxiu again in the future, sparing her much trouble. Though Jingxiu was not yet twenty and possessed an arrogant disposition—what did fleeting admiration and affection amount to? Though Qin Guan was actually a year or two younger than Jingxiu, whenever she thought of him now, she couldn't help feeling the amused condescension of an elder observing a child. Children were naturally playful, becoming enamored with some amusing or pretty trinket, only to lose interest within a few days. Jingxiu's feelings toward her were likely just such a passing whim, though she remained utterly baffled about what strange fascination had come over him...

In an instant, countless thoughts raced through Qin Guan's mind before her brows furrowed deeply.

Compared to Jingxiu's inexplicable gaze, what truly occupied Qin Guan's thoughts was Lu Boyi's illness.

When Lu Youxin returned from outside and saw Qin Guan still studying the medical records, she approached and asked softly, "Guan'er? What's your assessment?"

Qin Guan looked up. "Aunt, it's not very optimistic."

At these words, Lu Youxin's heart sank. She quickly took the seat opposite Qin Guan—the same spot where Lu Boyi had sat earlier—and asked, "What? Is it that serious? When you said it could still be treated earlier... were you... were you just trying to comfort Fifth Brother?"

Qin Guan shook her head. "Not exactly. But Fifth Uncle's illness has persisted too long, allowing the pathogenic factors to penetrate deep into his organs. When I took his pulse earlier, it felt as weak as a feather in the wind when pressed, and as faint and floating as a gossamer thread when lightly touched. Such a pulse indicates critical danger. The only reassurance is that Fifth Uncle hasn't reached the stage of coughing blood yet, and his organs haven't begun to decay. Since I specialize in the Needle Sutra, perhaps needle therapy could bring some improvement. If we rely solely on medication, we'd likely only be prolonging the inevitable."

Hearing this, Lu Youxin sat frozen in place. "Has it... already reached this point?"

Qin Guan sighed. "If we had treated him two months earlier, the prognosis would have been better. Fifth Uncle not only suffers from depleted qi but also from heart and lung stagnation—likely due to the stress from the mine disaster these past two months. This has accelerated the deterioration. Now, the situation has become quite difficult."

Lu Youxin clenched her fists tightly, her resentment toward Lu Jingcheng resurfacing. "How despicable! He brings disaster upon himself, and now he's dragging so many others down with him!"

Qin Guan comfortingly grasped Lu Youxin's hand. "Please calm yourself, Aunt. Prescribing the right formula is challenging—Fifth Uncle is so weakened he's reached a critical state. My prescription must focus on gentle reinforcement to avoid overwhelming his system. As for needle therapy, we'll need to administer some restorative medicine first."

Lu Youxin responded urgently, "Yes, yes, of course. Do everything as you see fit. I've consulted many physicians for him, and he's sought out several himself. As you noted, six months ago those doctors could still prescribe treatments, but starting two months ago, some even refused to see him. I knew then his condition was worsening, but I never imagined it had become this severe. Fifth Brother must be aware of it too."

Earlier, Lu Boyi himself had asked whether his illness was incurable, clearly indicating his own suspicions.

After a moment's contemplation, Qin Guan picked up her brush and began writing the prescription. As she wrote, she remarked, "Though we're starting late, if we had waited another two months, truly no medicine or treatment would have worked. Now that the truth about the mine disaster has come to light, Fifth Uncle should feel somewhat relieved. This is actually the perfect time to begin treatment."Qin Guan always knew how to comfort herself. Lu You Xin smiled with relief, "Guan'er, having Chi'er bring you to Jianzhou is truly my good fortune."

If not for Qin Guan, she would still be kept in the dark about the truth of the mine disaster. With Qin Guan here, there was great hope for both Lu Jingcheng's case and Lu Boyi's health.

Qin Guan smiled without saying more. Soon, she finished writing the prescription. "Use this formula. I've also included a dietary therapy recipe here. Fifth Uncle's illness requires dietary restrictions. Following my prescription will benefit his health and make him more comfortable. Two ingredients in the medicinal soup formula are somewhat hard to find—I'm not sure if they're available in the garden. If not, Auntie might need to search for them in Jianzhou city."

Lu You Xin quickly responded, "That shouldn't be difficult. I'll have it arranged. Guan'er, thank you."

"Auntie, there's no need for thanks. To be honest, Fifth Uncle's illness is nearly impossible to cure completely. I can only do my best for now."

Lu You Xin's face showed sorrow as she took a deep breath. "I understand. I trust your medical skills. Even gaining an extra month or two would make me grateful."

After finishing the prescription, Qin Guan didn't stay long and headed toward the Lotus Pavilion under the night sky.

Walking along the path, Fuling asked, "What was with Fifth Young Master today? Why did he seem like a completely different person from the other day?"

Hearing this, Qin Guan sighed helplessly, "How was he completely different? Illness naturally changes people."

Fuling blinked, glancing at Qin Guan before looking back at Baiying, as if there were words stuck in her throat that she didn't dare speak.

Baiying looked at Fuling with confusion. Fuling leaned closer and whispered to Baiying, "I... I feel like Fifth Young Master was looking at our princess consort somewhat strangely today?"

Baiying frowned slightly, initially puzzled, then glanced back at Bai Feng behind them.

Bai Feng maintained his usual serious and taciturn demeanor. Fuling quickly glanced at him too but immediately turned back, her face showing some embarrassment.

Walking at the rear, Bai Feng shook his head and let out a soft sigh.

The atmosphere became somewhat awkward. Though Fuling was careless by nature, she wasn't foolish. Thinking about her own suspicions and recalling Bai Feng's reprimand from two days prior, a sudden realization struck her—had Bai Feng already noticed something, which was why he didn't want those plum blossoms to remain?

After all, the old Bai Feng would never have concerned himself with trivial matters of the inner residence like flowers and plants!

This thought made Fuling's face flush red. She had always prided herself on having cared for Qin Guan for many years, being her most considerate maid, and the most trusted and closest to her. Naturally, she couldn't stand others saying she didn't serve well. Now it seemed she had failed to understand Bai Feng's meaning...

Feeling guilty, Fuling quickly glanced back at Bai Feng again, then turned away before their eyes could meet!

She thought her reaction was swift and discreet, but behind her, Bai Feng inexplicably frowned again.

Qin Guan clearly didn't wish to discuss Lu Jingxiu further, so Fuling didn't dare ask more. When they returned to the Lotus Pavilion, she deliberately slowed her steps. After everyone entered the courtyard, she admonished the servants at the gate, "Starting today, only items delivered from Wutong Courtyard may be accepted. Anything from other places must absolutely not be taken again."

The servants didn't understand why but didn't dare argue with Fuling, quickly nodding like pounding garlic.After saying this, Fuling let out a sigh of relief, feeling as if she had made up for her mistake and was now at ease. But when she turned and entered the courtyard, she saw Bai Feng standing below the steps. Bai Feng was looking at her, clearly having overheard her earlier words. Fuling paused mid-step, her face instantly flushing as if on fire. Her eyes darted uncertainly, and her hands unconsciously twisted the silk tassels of her dress sash. Even her walk became awkward and unnatural...

Bai Feng had naturally heard Fuling's words and felt a secret delight, though he showed no expression. Fuling’s gaze wandered, her hands fidgeting nervously with the sash tassels at her waist. Her steps were uneven and graceless, and as she approached him, she nearly stumbled over her skirt.

Seeing this, Bai Feng quickly stepped forward and subtly raised a hand to steady her, but Fuling managed to regain her balance just in time. He discreetly withdrew his hand, only for Fuling to suddenly dart back toward the main room like a startled rabbit...

Bai Feng’s frown deepened, his gaze growing increasingly puzzled. What was wrong with Fuling?

…

…

After washing up, Qin Guan picked up a medical book to read. Lu Boyi’s illness was more severe than she had anticipated. Though she knew reading now was of little use, she still wanted to do more. She read for nearly half an hour until the lamp wick crackled, and Fuling approached, saying, “Princess Consort, please don’t read anymore. You’ll strain your eyes. You can continue tomorrow. It’s time to rest now.”

Qin Guan glanced at the water clock in the corner of the room and set the book aside, but her thoughts drifted.

So many days had passed, yet there was still no news from Qianzhou. What had Yan Chi been doing these days? Was everything proceeding smoothly in Qianzhou?

Yan Chi had mentioned that this trip to Qianzhou might lead to military conflict, but Qin Guan didn’t know the specifics of his troop deployments. Recalling last night’s nightmare, she felt unsettled.

After a moment of distraction, Qin Guan finally lay down. Fortunately, she slept dreamlessly that night. Early the next morning, she instructed Bai Feng to send a message to Qianzhou. No matter what, she had to find a way to learn of Yan Chi’s situation...

Lu Boyi’s illness could only be treated gradually. As a healer by nature, Qin Guan was always attentive to her patients. After breakfast, she asked for directions to the medicine hut, wanting to check on the medicinal soup prepared for Lu Boyi. Fuling dispatched a servant, and before long, Huang Momo arrived from Wutong Courtyard.

Huang Momo accompanied Qin Guan to the medicine hut, explaining along the way, “This medicine hut has been here for a long time, but since the estate is usually unoccupied, it’s often empty. It was only after Fifth Master arrived that it was put to use again, as his medicine cannot be interrupted. Usually, only a young apprentice tends to the hut. Fifth Master’s medicine is handled by Ninth Young Master and his attendants. At this hour, only the apprentice is there. I’ve already sent someone ahead to have him step aside.”

Qin Guan nodded. “Thank you, Momma. I’m just a bit concerned.”

Huang Momo said gratefully, “It is I who should thank you, Princess Consort. You prescribed the formula but didn’t have to oversee it personally. Your dedication to Fifth Master’s condition truly reflects the compassion of a healer.”

Qin Guan smiled. “Fifth Uncle’s illness is quite challenging. The medicinal soup must not have any mishaps—that’s why I’m uneasy. For other ailments, I wouldn’t be so particular.”Huang Momo sighed repeatedly, naturally expressing her gratitude to Qin Guan. Before long, the group entered the medicine hut.

The medicine hut was a separate small courtyard with two main rooms and two side rooms on each side, totaling six rooms.

Upon entering the courtyard, Qin Guan first caught the scent of medicinal herbs, then was drawn to a small waterwheel.

In the center of the medicine hut was a flower bed, with a small stream murmuring through it. The tiny waterwheel was positioned at the lowest point of the stream.

At this time of year, Deer Pond had already frozen over, yet this small stream only had a thin layer of broken ice on its surface. Qin Guan stared intently for a few moments before suddenly noticing the clever design—the stream was drawn from underground, and the bamboo pipe from the small waterwheel's outlet was also buried beneath the earth. The waterwheel kept the water circulating continuously, preventing the stream from freezing. Qin Guan immediately remarked, "Was this made by the estate's craftsmen? How ingenious!"

Huang Momo chuckled, "This wasn't made by the estate's craftsmen—it was made by the Ninth Young Master. In winter, when the water freezes, the medicine hut struggles with water supply, so he diverted water from Deer Pond and built this waterwheel to keep it from freezing. Further along this stream, there's a small pool where the medicine hut draws its water."

Qin Guan marveled, realizing the bamboo pipe from the waterwheel was connected elsewhere. Such clever thinking to keep an entire pool of water flowing—truly remarkable!

"The Ninth Young Master has such skill?! Not only skilled but also ingenious—how marvelous!"

As Qin Guan praised, she walked closer. Huang Momo smiled and explained, "Princess Consort, you may not know, but aside from studying, the Ninth Young Master has always enjoyed handcrafts. He once said that if he doesn't take over the Fifth Branch's family business, he might as well become a carpenter. Of course, he was just a child when he said that—please don't laugh."

Qin Guan was far from laughing. She believed that one's passions need not be confined to family enterprises or power. For a Lu family descendant like Lu Jinghe to have such interests was quite unconventional. His wish to become a carpenter might well be his sincere disinterest in authority.

"Not at all—I actually envy him. The Ninth Young Master must have been clever since childhood."

While praising, Qin Guan continued inside, mindful of her main purpose—checking on the medicine. Huang Momo added, "Indeed, the Ninth Young Master was very bright from a young age and easily crafted small toys. As a child, he even looked down on store-bought wooden carts and kites because he could make them himself."

Qin Guan was even more astonished, but her surprise was brief. Just as she reached the doorway, she suddenly paused...

Huang Momo didn't know what had caught Qin Guan's attention, only seeing her glance back toward the waterwheel with a fleeting complex expression before calmly entering the room. When Huang Momo looked again, Qin Guan's expression had returned to normal.

Huang Momo shook her head slightly but didn't inquire further.

In just one night, Lu Boyi's medicine was nearly prepared, with only one ingredient missing. Lu You Xin had already sent someone to Jianzhou City to fetch it, and it would arrive this afternoon. Once it did, Lu Boyi's medicine would be complete.

After checking the medicine, Qin Guan didn't linger at the hut to avoid complications. On the way back, she asked, "Momma, you mentioned earlier that Fifth Uncle's medicine is overseen by the Ninth Young Master?"

Huang Momo nodded. "Yes, it's managed by the Ninth Young Master. He has a quiet temperament, and since Fifth Master has been ill for many years, he started preparing his father's medicine from a young age—very filial. Now, he can treat minor ailments himself. You've met the Ninth Young Master—he appears refined and scholarly, but I believe he's the cleverest among the younger generation."Qin Guan narrowed her eyes in thought for a moment. Indeed, among the younger generation, Lu Jinghe appeared unremarkable at first glance—at most, his temperament was gentler than Lu Jingyun's, and he lacked any nervousness in social situations. Still, he couldn't compare to Lu Jingxiu, who practiced martial arts and exuded a spirited, proud demeanor.

"Since childhood, he could make wooden carts and kites, and even taught himself medicine. Hearing Momma say this, I also think the Ninth Young Master is a prodigy. What about his studies? How is the Ninth Young Master's scholarship?"

Huang Momo smiled. "The Ninth Young Master's scholarship is excellent as well. But as the princess consort must have noticed, he shares Fifth Master's temperament—he dislikes contention and showing off. No matter how clever he is, he never steps forward or flaunts his abilities, so others remain unaware. Thus, within the clan, the Ninth Young Master's reputation is not prominent."

Qin Guan nodded. "I see. Actually, that's a good thing. A steady temperament is what enables great achievements."

Huang Momo sighed. "Exactly. In fact, the young lady used to be very fond of the Ninth Young Master."

Qin Guan turned to look at Huang Momo. "Did Aunt want to choose him as the successor?"

At this question, Huang Momo's expression turned somewhat complicated, and she finally smiled and said, "Not exactly. The Fifth Branch never competes for the position of successor."

Qin Guan nodded. "In that case, Fifth Uncle's family truly keeps to themselves and avoids conflict."

Huang Momo smiled and nodded, seeming to want to say something but ultimately holding back.

When they returned to the Lotus Pavilion, Huang Momo took her leave first, while Qin Guan began to ponder deeply. Seeing the clever design of the waterwheel and hearing Huang Momo repeatedly praise Lu Jinghe, she couldn't help but think of the mechanism on Lu Jingcheng's door. It wasn't a highly sophisticated mechanism, but for an ordinary person, few could have conceived of it.

Based on this alone, Lu Jinghe warranted some suspicion.

Yet Huang Momo had said the Fifth Branch had no interest in competing for the successor's position and that the entire family was gentle and conflict-averse. Because of this, Qin Guan's suspicion of Lu Jinghe diminished slightly. Coupled with the erotic album on Lu Jingcheng's desk, she remained largely unconvinced that any of the young masters were involved.

However, was Lu Jinghe aware that he was the cause of the Fifth Branch's mine disaster?

Qin Guan had many doubts but no immediate answers. In the afternoon, Bai Feng suddenly hurried in from outside, holding a letter. "Princess Consort! A letter from the master!"

At this, not only Qin Guan but also Baiying and Fuling were overjoyed. Qin Guan quickly opened the envelope, eagerly pulling out the letter to read. The writing was sparse, and she scanned it in an instant. After finishing, she sat in a daze.

Bai Feng and the others watched her expectantly, so Qin Guan finally spoke. "Hostilities have broken out in Qianzhou. The situation remains tense these past few days. He assures us not to worry and that the outcome will be decided soon. He will definitely return before the New Year."

After saying this, Qin Guan's heart sank further.

War had indeed erupted. Jiang Heying came from the Northwest Frontier Army and was naturally very familiar with it. Moreover, Qianzhou had a substantial garrison. Qin Guan worried about the prolonged conflict and even more about Yan Chi getting injured. She clenched the letter tightly, wishing she could be by Yan Chi's side at that very moment—even amid the raging war, she could at least stay with him."Alright, don't worry." Qin Guan took a deep breath, suppressing all her emotions. "We must trust him and simply wait for his return."

Bai Feng and the others nodded in agreement, but Qin Guan knew none of them could truly relax.

This letter had resolved Qin Guan's doubts about Qianzhou's situation, yet it bred even more concern and worry. However, she only revealed these feelings when alone. Jianzhou and Qianzhou were hundreds of miles apart; the letter had been written two days prior, and now another two days had passed. No one knew what the current situation was.

That evening, Qin Guan sent someone to invite Lu Youxin over. When Lu Youxin arrived at the Han Dan Hall, Qin Guan informed her about Yan Chi's letter. Upon hearing that war had truly broken out, Lu Youxin immediately grew concerned. "This letter was written two days ago, meaning the conflict likely started even earlier. He must be extremely busy these days, with no extra time to write to us. But since many people travel from Qianzhou to Jianzhou, I'll send someone to Jianzhou City tomorrow to inquire and see if we can get any news from Qianzhou."

Qin Guan had been considering the same idea and naturally agreed with Lu Youxin's suggestion. Noticing that Qin Guan wasn't overly distressed, Lu Youxin offered a few words of comfort before changing the subject. "I heard you really liked the waterwheel set that Jinghe made? He's a clever child—he's created many little gadgets among the Lu clan. That waterwheel set only took him five days from start to finish. He once said he wanted to become a carpenter, and I think he'd be an exceptional one if he did..."

Qin Guan smiled slightly. "Yes, Huang Momo told me quite a bit about it. I was very surprised—it shows that the Ninth Young Master is truly gifted."

Lu Youxin sighed. "Indeed, he's very intelligent and learns everything quickly. I often think how wonderful it would be if Jingxiu had his steadiness and sharp wit."

Qin Guan looked puzzled. "Aunt, are you saying... you favor the Fifth Young Master? But since you think the Ninth Young Master is also excellent, why not simply..."

Lu Youxin pressed her lips together, her expression turning solemn. After a pause, she said, "Actually... it's not that I don't like Jinghe. I like him very much. As I've told you, the younger generation still needs experience, but when the time comes, I won't delay appointing an heir. However, if I choose Jinghe, the clan elders will certainly object..."

Qin Guan's eyes filled with confusion. Lu Youxin looked at her for a moment, as if steeling herself, and continued, "My fifth brother has been in poor health since childhood. Although he and his wife are harmonious, they... they struggled to have children. Jinghe... was actually adopted from a collateral branch of the Lu clan; he's not their biological son. Only I and a few senior clan members know this... Because of this, no matter how excellent Jinghe is, it's difficult for me to choose him."

Qin Guan instantly understood why Huang Momo had looked so conflicted earlier. Her recently dismissed suspicions about Lu Jinghe were reignited by Lu Youxin's words. If Lu Jinghe wasn't the biological son of the fifth branch, then he wasn't Lu Jingcheng's direct cousin!