Coroner's Diary

Seeing Qin Guan's complex and solemn expression, Lu You Xin quickly asked, "What's wrong, Guan'er?"

Qin Guan snapped back to reality and shook her head, "It's nothing, I just didn't expect it. Looking at the Ninth Young Master, I find him strikingly similar to Fifth Uncle."

Lu You Xin sighed, "Who wouldn't agree? Except for a few elders who know the truth, no one has ever doubted this. Jinghe's appearance aside, his entire demeanor—meticulously cultivated by Fifth Brother and his wife—is exactly like Fifth Brother's. Because of this, when they stand together, they appear as genuine father and son."

Qin Guan promptly asked, "How old was the Ninth Young Master when he was adopted?"

Lu You Xin sighed again, "He was three years old when he was taken in."

"Three years old? If he was three, how could others not know?"

At this question, Lu You Xin let out a long sigh. "Actually, Fifth Brother and his wife had a child before—a boy. Fifth Brother has a weak constitution, and it was difficult for them to have this child. Unfortunately, the boy was born with a congenital deficiency. Over the years, despite continuous medical treatment, he showed no improvement. By the time he was over two years old, a doctor examined him and said he had at most six months to live. At first, Fifth Brother and his wife were utterly grief-stricken. Then, as the child grew increasingly frail, they realized there was no hope. Moreover, the doctor treating Fifth Brother said he was unlikely to have more children. So, before the child passed away, someone suggested they adopt a foster son."

"According to an old belief, those without the fortune of having descendants can adopt a child whose fate aligns with theirs. By keeping such a child close, he would bring the family the blessing of progeny. Hearing this, Fifth Brother was moved. In the child's final six months, Fifth Brother and his wife took him to Huzhou, claiming it was for medical treatment. The child eventually passed away there. Meanwhile, Fifth Brother had already asked someone to find Jinghe within the clan. Jinghe's birth chart was exceptionally auspicious; he was considered a lucky star. Unwilling to let others know about his eldest son's death, Fifth Brother replaced his child with Jinghe. Thus, to outsiders, Jinghe remained Fifth Brother's biological son, which also benefited Jinghe greatly. After adopting Jinghe, perhaps because there was truly a bond, Fifth Brother and his wife grew increasingly fond of him. Later, as Fifth Brother remained in poor health and his wife struggled to conceive again, he stopped worrying about it. Over the years, it's as if Jinghe has always been his biological son."

Qin Guan listened and then asked, "What kind of family does the Ninth Young Master come from?"

Lu You Xin quickly replied, "Jinghe is from a collateral branch of the Lu family. Although it's a collateral branch, they are already beyond the fifth degree of kinship—they just share the same surname, Lu. His father died early, leaving only a widowed mother to raise him. When they found him, it was out of pity for his difficult circumstances. After adopting him, his widowed mother was taken care of and now lives well in Lanzhou."

Upon hearing this, Qin Guan pondered for a moment before nodding. "So the Ninth Young Master has such a background."Lu Youxin sighed, "Indeed, although few know of this matter, several elders in the clan are aware. In families like ours, bloodline is of utmost importance. Establishing Jinghe as heir is absolutely impossible. Among the younger generation, I have never considered Jingcheng, and to be honest, Jingxiu and Jingyun are also flawed. Jingxiu is impulsive and lacks steadiness, often acting on emotion—a grave flaw for the head of the Lu family. As for Jingyun, his nature is too timid; if faced with true adversity, he would struggle to bear such responsibility. So, I am deeply troubled. Compounding this, the third and fourth branches dote on them excessively, making it difficult for me to discipline them in daily life."

Qin Guan, listening to Lu Youxin's words, could already imagine her hardships and felt a pang of sympathy. "Aunt, you have endured so much over the years. Since the third and fourth branches harbor ambitions, why not speak plainly? If the younger generation also aspires to this, they should understand the need for self-cultivation. Otherwise, you may have to consider others."

Lu Youxin sighed again. "In recent years, the main lineage of the Lu family has seen too much strife, and the branches have grown somewhat distant. But you are right—I should ponder this carefully."

Qin Guan nodded. Preoccupied with her own thoughts, she did not linger in conversation with Lu Youxin, who soon took her leave.

After Lu Youxin departed, Qin Guan fell into deep reflection. The ninth young master, Lu Jinghe, was not biologically related to the fifth branch. If so, the concerns arising from the spring palace booklet could apply to him. If Lu Jingcheng learned of this and developed affection for Jinghe, it was not impossible. Moreover, since Lu Jingcheng was also the instigator of the fifth branch's mine disaster, Jinghe would have even more motive to kill. But how did Lu Jingcheng come to know of Jinghe's origins?

"Fuling, ask Bai Feng to come in..."

Fuling, who was attending nearby, paled slightly at these words. After a brief hesitation, she stepped out.

Bai Feng typically waited in the outer corridor. Fuling knocked on the door, and Bai Feng hurried to open it. Surprised to see Fuling, he watched as she lowered her gaze and said, "The princess consort has matters to discuss with you..."

With that, Fuling turned and left, and Bai Feng followed her inside.

Upon entering the inner chamber, Qin Guan instructed, "Investigate the ninth young master of the fifth branch as quickly as possible. What I know now is that his background is unusual. Find out where his widowed mother resides, what his usual preferences are—essentially, gather as much information about him as you can."

Bai Feng promptly nodded. "Understood. I will issue the orders immediately. However, this may require sending word to Lingzhou, which could take a few days."

Qin Guan acknowledged this. "I understand. Proceed with the inquiry in Lingzhou, and gather whatever you can locally."

Bai Feng assented and withdrew.

Qin Guan rested her cheek on her hand, frowning slightly, uncertain if her suspicions were justified.

Fuling, puzzled, asked, "Why is the young lady suddenly investigating the ninth young master? Do you suspect him?"

Qin Guan sighed. "It's hard to say. I know too little about him. It's always better to learn more."

Fuling murmured an "Oh" and fell silent. Qin Guan pondered a while longer before lying down to rest.The next day, Lu Boyi's medicine was prepared. Early in the morning, he began using the new prescription. After discussing with Lu Youxin, Qin Guan decided to check Lu Boyi's pulse again in the evening. If his pulse was stable, they could proceed with the needle therapy.

By evening, Qin Guan arrived early at Wutong Garden and spoke with Lu Youxin for a while before Lu Boyi and his son arrived.

Upon learning of their arrival, Qin Guan said to Lu Youxin, "Since they're all here, let them come in. It's fine."

Lu Youxin naturally agreed happily and invited both Lu Boyi and his son inside.

During his previous consultation, Lu Boyi had told Lu Jinghe that the doctor treating him was a young woman. When they entered the inner chamber and Lu Jinghe saw Qin Guan, he couldn't help but pause in surprise... Lu Boyi hadn't exaggerated Qin Guan's appearance, only describing her as an extraordinary young woman with remarkable presence. But now, seeing her in person, Lu Jinghe realized his father had been quite reserved in his description.

Lu Boyi nodded in greeting to Qin Guan, and Lu Youxin said, "To treat Fifth Brother's illness, I've asked Miss Qin to stay in our residence. Fifth Brother's health is of utmost importance, and Miss Qin's medical skills are exceptional. I hope his condition will improve after this treatment..."

Lu Boyi quickly responded, "With the New Year approaching, many are busy returning home for the celebrations. We're truly grateful that Miss Qin has agreed to stay at our residence."

Qin Guan smiled and said, "I have no family to return to. It is I who should thank Madam for taking me in. Fifth Master, please sit down for the pulse diagnosis."

Qin Guan remained seated without rising to greet them. She wore no makeup, and though her clothing was often plain in color, it was made of noble silk. The composure in her eyes and brows highlighted her elegant and dignified demeanor. Watching her, Lu Jinghe felt a faint sense of curiosity, but since he was only there to accompany Lu Boyi for the consultation, he simply stood by respectfully.

Qin Guan first checked Lu Boyi's pulse and asked, "How do you feel after taking the medicinal soup today?"

Lu Boyi touched his chest and said, "I didn't feel much in the morning, but by evening, the dizziness had lessened considerably, and the stinging pain in my chest has eased. I haven't noticed any other changes yet."

Having only taken the medicine for one day, such rapid progress was unexpected. Hearing this, Qin Guan was quite satisfied.

Qin Guan then said, "From the pulse diagnosis just now, your pulse is stronger than yesterday. To avoid delay, I plan to perform the needle therapy tomorrow. What do you think?"

Lu Boyi smiled, "Of course, we'll follow your advice, Miss Qin. After the consultation the other day, when you said my condition was treatable, I finally managed to sleep soundly."

Though Lu Boyi was the elder, he unconsciously used humble language in Qin Guan's presence. Qin Guan accepted this naturally and added, "Very well, then we'll proceed with the needle therapy at noon tomorrow. I need to return and prepare, so please continue with the medicinal soup for now."

Lu Boyi agreed and remarked, "I never expected someone as young as you, Miss Qin, to possess such remarkable medical skill."

Qin Guan replied, "It's only because I've studied medicine since childhood."

As she spoke, her gaze shifted to Lu Jinghe. "And this is...?"

Lu Boyi quickly explained, "Oh, this is my son."

Lu Youxin added, "This is my ninth nephew."

Qin Guan understood, "So this is the Ninth Young Master. I notice his complexion is slightly sallow with dark circles under his eyes. Has he been having trouble sleeping these past few nights?"Lu Jinghe hadn't expected Qin Guan to notice him. He immediately stepped forward and nodded, "Miss Qin indeed has sharp eyes. I've indeed had some trouble sleeping these past two days."

Lu Boyi chuckled, "My illness is quite severe, and my son has been worried sick, hence his lack of sleep."

Qin Guan nodded promptly, "Ninth Young Master, would you like me to prescribe a calming formula for you?"

Upon hearing this, Lu Jinghe seemed momentarily at a loss. Lu Youxin laughed, "Don't mind him. He's clever—having cared for his father all these years, he's practically half a physician himself. Such minor ailments he can handle on his own. Rest assured."

"So that's how it is. I was overthinking then."

Qin Guan smiled gently, and Lu Jinghe returned a slight smile before retreating quietly.

Though the room wasn't crowded, Lu Jinghe stood there with lowered eyes, so still he seemed almost invisible. Only when one's gaze settled on him could they see his strikingly handsome features and his ethereal, refined aura. Looking at him now, Qin Guan found it hard to connect him with the words "murderer." Yet, after all these years, she knew well that appearances could be deeply deceiving.

"With Miss Qin's reassurance, my mind is at ease. It's getting late, so I won't detain you further."

Lu Boyi rose to take his leave, and Lu Jinghe hurried forward to support him. As he extended his hand, Qin Guan noticed a scabbed wound below the little finger of his right hand. "Ninth Young Master, how did you injure your hand?" she asked.

The question drew everyone's attention to Lu Jinghe. Lu Boyi glanced at his son's hand and explained with a smile, "He burned it while preparing my medicine last time."

Qin Guan nodded approvingly, "Ninth Young Master is truly filial. Fifth Elder, take care."

Lu Boyi nodded to Lu Youxin, and the father-son pair departed.

Qin Guan watched them disappear, her gaze lingering at the doorway. Noticing this, Lu Youxin approached and inquired about the needle therapy. "Guan'er? Is the needle therapy effective?"

Qin Guan snapped out of her thoughts, "Yes. Medicinal soup works slowly, while needle therapy shows faster results, though it causes the patient some discomfort."

Lu Youxin breathed a sigh of relief, "That's good to hear."

After sitting a while longer, Qin Guan headed toward the Lotus Pavilion. On the path from the Wutong Courtyard, she passed a flower garden with a covered bridge. As she reached the garden's edge, she spotted two figures on the bridge—Lu Jingxiu and Lu Jingyun. Frowning, she paused. The two promptly descended and approached her.

Lu Jingxiu bowed respectfully, "Your Highness—"

Qin Guan replied impassively, "Fifth Young Master, what brings you here?"

Lu Jingxiu hurriedly explained, "I went to Jianzhou City today and heard people say that Mars will station near Antares tonight, so I thought to wait here and observe."

Had it been any other topic, Qin Guan might have dismissed it, but the mention of Mars stationing near Antares immediately sharpened her focus. "Mars stationing near Antares? Where did such rumors originate?"

Lu Jingxiu elaborated, "They say it came from the capital. Over half a month ago, the Imperial Observatory calculated that in the capital, Mars could be seen daily suspended between the crescent moon and Antares—a highly ominous sign. Meanwhile, the Northern Garrison Army up north has already risen in Cangzhou, seemingly aligning with this celestial phenomenon. The news spread among the populace, causing widespread panic and discussion. Now even the southern regions know—you can imagine the unrest..."The Imperial Observatory specializes in celestial observations, and the phenomenon of Mars lingering near the Heart constellation has always been considered highly inauspicious. When such an omen appears, it signifies the onset of war and calamity. Now, with the Empress and Crown Prince leading the Northern Garrison Army in rebellion up north, and though Yan Chi has yet to reach the Northwest Frontier, conflicts have already erupted in Qianzhou—all these events align with the portent of Mars guarding the Heart. No wonder even Jingxiu was here observing the skies. Qin Guan had not heard any news from the capital or the northern regions for many days, and Lu Jingxiu’s words brought all the people and affairs of the capital vividly to mind, filling her with deep unease. Subconsciously, she lifted her gaze to the night sky—

The day had been clear, and the night sky was equally serene, with a crescent moon hanging at the horizon, dotted by a few faint stars. Qin Guan knew nothing of celestial signs and could not identify which star was Mars, but since rumors had already spread, they were likely true. War was imminent, and with Yan Chi currently embroiled in conflict, a sense of foreboding gripped her heart...

"Do you know which star is Mars, my lady?"

Seeing the gravity on Qin Guan’s face, Lu Jingxiu realized she had taken his words to heart and promptly asked.

Qin Guan shook her head. "I do not."

A glimmer lit Lu Jingxiu’s eyes as he quickly raised a hand to point. "See that brightest star below the crescent moon? That is Mars. Below Mars lies the Heart constellation. The weather is fine tonight, ideal for stargazing, but by midnight, the Heart constellation may no longer be visible."

Following his direction, Qin Guan indeed spotted the two stars. "It seems war is unavoidable."

Lu Jingxiu nodded in agreement. "Indeed. Not only the north, but the west may also grow unstable."

At the mention of the west, Qin Guan turned a stern gaze upon Lu Jingxiu. Unable to meet her eyes, he averted his and said, "There have been unusual movements in Qianzhou these past two days. When I went to Jianzhou City today, I noticed heightened defenses. Many refugees from Qianzhou weren’t even allowed into the city. From what they said, a troop suddenly appeared a couple of days ago and clashed with the garrison forces under Qianzhou’s commander in the southern part of the region. They’ve likely started fighting by now."

Lu Jingxiu did not know where these soldiers came from, nor did he know Yan Chi’s whereabouts, but he surmised that Prince Rui must have headed for the Northwest Frontier. The events in Qianzhou were probably linked to the northwest. Seeing how Qin Guan’s expression hardened at the mention of the frontier and Qianzhou, he grew more convinced of his theory. The thought of Qin Guan stranded here, separated from her husband by Yan Chi’s arrangements, stirred a flicker of disdain in him for the rumored Prince Rui.

"Did the refugees say anything else?"

Qin Guan had been awaiting news of Qianzhou. After discussing it with Lu You Xin, she had also sent people to investigate, but no word had returned yet. Hearing Lu Jingxiu’s account, she felt compelled to inquire further.

Lu Jingxiu turned back to her. "Most said Qianzhou’s garrison is considered elite, but with conflict breaking out there, no one knows how long it will drag on. The longer it lasts, the more the common people will suffer. Jianzhou City will likely tighten its restrictions further, and these refugees won’t even be able to celebrate the New Year."

Qin Guan narrowed her eyes. "Qianzhou’s garrison hasn’t seen battle in years—they can hardly be called elite."

The soldiers of Qianzhou’s garrison weren’t truly elite; it was just that Jiang Heying had once served in the Northwest Frontier Army...Qin Guan had a clear understanding in her heart. Lu Jingxiu said, "That's not necessarily true. After all, the Qianzhou garrison has been stationed there for many years—this is something others cannot compare to."

Qin Guan didn't argue further, as Lu Jingxiu's words held some truth. Seeing her silence, Lu Jingxiu quickly asked, "Is the princess consort worried?"

Qin Guan lifted her gaze. Though she had obtained information from Lu Jingxiu, she had no intention of delving deeper into the conversation with him. "Not particularly," she replied. "Warfare is beyond our control, but heaven upholds the righteous Path. No matter how chaotic the nation becomes, the people's hearts will ultimately align with the just cause."

Hearing her words, a warm current flowed through Lu Jingxiu's heart. Ordinary civilians invariably feared war, especially since Qin Guan was a woman, and the conflict was occurring in Qianzhou, the closest region to Jianzhou. Even he felt uneasy upon learning of it, yet Qin Guan remained remarkably composed. Moreover, she seemed convinced that Shuoxi would prevail in the Qianzhou campaign. At this thought, a flicker of resentment stirred within him. Just as he was about to speak again, Qin Guan said, "It's getting late. Fifth Young Master should return and rest early. I must take my leave."

Qin Guan took a step back, bypassed Lu Jingxiu, and walked away directly. Lu Jingxiu turned around, his mouth agape, but no words came out.

Lu Jingyun stood beside Lu Jingxiu. "Fifth Brother... it seems... you're still not very effective."

Lu Jingxiu's eyes, however, lit up at these words. "Who says it's useless! I suspected Qianzhou was connected to Shuoxi—it's likely Prince Rui's arrangement. She cares about these matters but doesn't show it openly. She has few people around her, so information reaches her slowly. If I can bring her such news, she's bound to grow closer to me over time. Didn't she just ask me questions and speak with me at length? Tomorrow, we'll continue to Jianzhou—"

Lu Jingyun sighed helplessly. "Fifth Brother, why bother? The princess consort is already Prince Rui's wife."

Lu Jinghe snorted, unperturbed. Seeing that Qin Guan had vanished without a trace, he turned and returned to Lanxiang Courtyard.

……

……

Lu Jingxiu's information was indeed not without value. As soon as Qin Guan returned to Handan Lodge, she summoned Bai Feng.

"The prince must have left many informants in the capital. I want to know the news from the capital and the situation in the north. Since even people in Jianzhou are aware that the Northern Garrison Army has risen in Cangzhou, it's likely the Empress and Crown Prince have already reached Cangzhou... Such reports were usually relayed to the prince. If convenient from now on, please inform me as well."

Though far from the capital, Qin Guan still worried about those left behind. Having heard no news from the capital for days, she felt deeply unsettled.

Bai Feng promptly responded, "Since our lord went to Qianzhou, urgent messages these past few days have been sent there. Two letters from the capital and the north arrived earlier, but as they weren't marked urgent, they were placed in the study to await the lord's return. If the princess consort wishes to see them, this subordinate can fetch them now."

Qin Guan waved her hand. "There's no need to show me the letters. I only meant that if you learn of any news from the capital, you can inform me. Keep those letters for him to read upon his return."

Bai Feng quickly added, "This subordinate is unaware of the matter regarding the ominous celestial phenomenon, but there is one piece of information I know that the princess consort will surely find interesting."

Qin Guan looked at Bai Feng, who pursed her lips and said, "Princess Yue Ning and Prince Yi's heir apparent have set their wedding date. It was arranged by an imperial decree from the Empress Dowager. Her Majesty's health is failing, and perhaps she did not wish to wait too long, so she issued the decree. The wedding is scheduled for next April."Qin Guan's delicate fists clenched instantly upon hearing this. "Yue Ning and Yan Ze are engaged?!"

Bai Feng nodded. Qin Guan took a deep breath, trying to calm the unease in her heart.

Yan Ze had committed so many evil deeds. Though she hadn't explicitly told Yue Ning everything, she had warned her. It seemed Yue Ning still didn't know the full truth and, pressured by elders and her own self-blame, had agreed to marry Yan Ze...

Qin Guan's heart pounded wildly. "I... I want to write a letter to Yue Ning. Do you have a way to get it into her hands?"

Bai Feng nodded without hesitation, "That can be arranged. Now that things have settled somewhat, sending a letter to the capital won’t be difficult."

Qin Guan, deciding to write immediately, rose and went to the writing desk. Yet, as she picked up the brush, she hesitated slightly. Matters concerning Yan Ze were not something she felt comfortable conveying in writing without discussing face-to-face. After pondering for a while, she first described her own situation, then cautiously mentioned a word or two about Yue Ning’s engagement.

By the time she finished the letter, it was already late. Qin Guan sealed the envelope carefully with wax, and Bai Feng took it and left.

Qin Guan sighed, gazing out at the moonlight outside the window, lost in thought. Yue Ning, Yan Sui, Sun Muqing, the Empress Dowager, the Grand Princess, and everyone at Qin Manor—all those connected to her—how were they faring now?

……

……

Early the next morning, as soon as Qin Guan got up, she began preparing for the needle therapy. Although her departure from the capital had been rushed, Fuling had not forgotten to bring any of the necessary items. For this session, Qin Guan used the set of Taisu Nine Needles that Yan Chi had gifted her earlier. Before noon, she arrived early at Wutong Courtyard.

Lu Youxin had just seen off a few stewards in her courtyard. With the year’s end approaching, she was extremely busy. Noticing Qin Guan’s arrival, she seized the moment to chat with her.

"I’ve already ordered preparations for the funeral rites. Delaying indefinitely isn’t a solution. After Second Brother learned about the mine disaster, he stopped making a fuss. Still, I understand the grief of losing a son. We’ll take good care of them these next few days. As for what happens afterward, it depends on when the truth of the case can be uncovered."

The case of Lu Jingcheng weighed heavily on Qin Guan’s mind. Hearing this, she offered a few words of comfort to Lu Youxin. Not long after, Lu Boyi and his son arrived.

Lu Jinghe, dressed in a fresh blue robe, stood tall and elegant like a green bamboo, bringing a touch of brightness to the winter day as he followed Lu Boyi inside.

Since the needle therapy required changing clothes, Qin Guan asked Lu Jinghe to assist. Watching him help Lu Boyi remove his outer garments, Qin Guan once again noticed the scars on Lu Jinghe’s hands. The previous night, Lu Boyi had claimed they were from burns, but seeing them clearly today, Qin Guan felt he might be lying.

However, without any evidence, she couldn’t press further, and with the wounds already scabbed over, she couldn’t be entirely sure of her judgment.

Once Lu Boyi had changed and lay down, Qin Guan focused her attention on administering the needle therapy.

Performing needle therapy was both mentally and physically draining. In just a short while, a light sweat beaded on Qin Guan’s forehead, while Lu Boyi grew pale from the pain. Seeing this, Lu Jinghe held his father’s hand and spoke to him softly, diverting his attention. Observing this, even Qin Guan felt admiration for Lu Jinghe—for someone his age to show such patience and filial piety was truly remarkable.

After all the needles were in place, Lu Boyi gradually grew accustomed to the pain and soon closed his eyes to rest.

Noticing this, Qin Guan signaled to Lu Jinghe to step outside, and the two of them left the room one after the other.

Outside, Lu Youxin was no longer there. Huang Momo came forward to serve them tea. "Another steward from the outer court has arrived. The young lady has gone to the assembly hall to meet with them."Qin Guan naturally paid no mind to these matters. As Lu Jinghe seated himself opposite her, she turned her attention to the wound on his hand. "Although Ninth Young Master's injury has healed, such winter weather makes wounds prone to chapping. You must take care, or it may leave a scar."

Lu Jinghe's injury was on his right hand, and the bloodstains on his robe were also on the right side. After speaking, Qin Guan observed his expression closely.

Upon hearing this, Lu Jinghe merely smiled faintly. "Thank you for your concern, Miss Qin. I shall be mindful."

Qin Guan nodded. "I heard from Huang Momo that Ninth Young Master is quite dexterous. The waterwheel in the medicine garden was crafted by you—truly remarkable."

Lu Jinghe lowered his head with a modest smile. "They are but trivial pastimes, unworthy of praise. You flatter me, Miss Qin."

Lu Jinghe seemed ill at ease in social situations. Seated across from Qin Guan, he only spoke when she initiated conversation. Gradually, Qin Guan grew somewhat silent herself, though her gaze frequently drifted back to him. Initially restrained, she became more penetrating in her observation when she noticed his complete lack of reaction. She was certain he knew she was watching him, yet under her scrutiny, Lu Jinghe remained composed, quietly sipping his tea. This surprised Qin Guan slightly.

For some reason, the longer she looked at him, the more complex he appeared. At first glance, he seemed elegant and gentle, but over time, an air of profundity emanated from him...

After sitting for the duration of a cup of tea, Qin Guan rose and entered the inner chamber. Lu Boyi had fallen asleep. She administered the needle therapy with delicate movements, while Lu Jinghe, who had followed her in, gently covered Lu Boyi with the brocade quilt before withdrawing. Qin Guan instructed, "The medicine must be taken on time, and dietary restrictions observed. These days, avoid catching cold. I shall return tomorrow at noon to check your pulse. If all goes well, needle therapy every three days should yield noticeable improvement after three or four sessions."

Lu Jinghe listened attentively, nodding occasionally, then suddenly asked, "Might I ask how long Miss Qin plans to stay in the residence?"

Qin Guan replied, "I shall depart a few days after the New Year. That is why I was eager to administer the needle therapy today—otherwise, it might have been too late."

A flicker of disappointment crossed Lu Jinghe's eyes. "Very well, I understand. Thank you, Miss Qin."

Qin Guan nodded and left with Fuling and the others.

Lu Jinghe stood alone in the main hall, watching Qin Guan until her figure disappeared from view. Only then did he turn and resume his seat. Huang Momo refilled his teacup, but he did not drink. After a moment, he inquired, "Momma, how is the investigation into Fourth Brother's matter progressing?"

Huang Momo held great affection for Lu Jinghe and sighed at his question. "There has been no progress yet. Previously, the investigation led to the mine disaster, and Hu Guangde was apprehended. But Hu Guangde couldn't possibly be the murderer. At present, we truly don't know how to proceed."

Lu Jinghe nodded. "Where is this Miss Qin from? To be so skilled at such a young age—we previously sought physicians in Jianzhou City but never heard of such a remarkable healer."

Though hesitant to reveal Qin Guan's full background, Huang Momo felt she could confide in Lu Jinghe. "She is no ordinary physician. Her medical skills are extraordinary. Since the young lady has entrusted her with Fifth Master's treatment, you need not worry."Lu Jinghe smiled slightly, "I naturally trust her, but I had hoped she could stay longer at the estate. Now that I’ve learned she’ll be leaving after the New Year, I’m just concerned that Father’s illness requires long-term needle therapy, which may become difficult to manage later."

"Ninth Young Master, there’s no need to worry too much. If necessary, we can seek out Miss Qin in the west when the time comes."

"The west?" Lu Jinghe asked in surprise. "From her accent, Miss Qin sounds like she’s from the north..."

Huang Momo nodded with a smile, "She is from the north, but she mentioned her future plans to the young lady, so I have some idea."

Lu Jinghe acknowledged this, then added, "By the way, I didn’t see you around the estate recently. Did you return to Lan Zhou?"

Huang Momo waved her hand, "No, I didn’t go back to Lan Zhou. The young lady assigned me other tasks."

Lu Jinghe made a sound of understanding and didn’t press further. After waiting another half-hour, Lu Boyi woke up, and Lu Jinghe accompanied him back to Green Bamboo Courtyard.

...

...

By evening, the Lu family attendants sent out by Lu You Xin returned to White Deer Isle, bringing news from Qian Zhou.

Before dinner, Lu You Xin found a moment to personally inform Qin Guan, "It’s true—there’s been fighting, but no one knows which army clashed with the Qian Zhou garrison. Rumors are rampant; some say it’s the Northwest Frontier Army, though no one yet knows Yan Chi has gone to Qian Zhou. With heavy snowfall there recently, many refugees have frozen to death on the road to Jian Zhou. It’s truly pitiful. Others say Qian Zhou’s city gates have been shut for days, and the prefect hasn’t shown himself. The city is in chaos, and people fear Jian Zhou might be next..."

"Qian Zhou’s strategic position can’t be ignored, and its commander Jiang Heying is connected to Father Prince’s death—that’s why we started there. Jian Zhou is a land of abundance; he won’t let warfare spread there recklessly. From the beginning, he never intended to seize the southern cities by force."

Qin Guan spoke calmly, and Lu You Xin sighed, "I understand his plans. With southern garrisons weakened and the capital preoccupied with the north, the timing is favorable. But I know Yan Chi, ambitious as he is, would never let the common people suffer."

Southern defenses primarily relied on naval forces, and with Jin Zhou’s troops heading north to aid the capital, no army in the south could match the Northwest Frontier Army. Yet, at this point, Yan Chi had no intention of annexing the southern states—this reflected his righteousness. Thinking of Yan Chi, Qin Guan said, "The New Year is just five days away. I wonder if he can make it back in time."

Lu You Xin clasped her hand, "Of course he will. Even if he doesn’t, you must celebrate with me, Auntie. These past years have been hectic, and I’ve lacked someone close. This year is different—even if Yan Chi isn’t back, having you here in the garden makes me happy enough!"

Qin Guan smiled, "Alright, I’ll naturally spend the New Year with Auntie..."

Lu You Xin continued, "With the war breaking out, many won’t have a peaceful New Year. The Northern Garrison Army’s southward march is paved with blood and fire. As long as I see you both safe, I’ll be at ease. Yan Chi is blessed; he’s sure to succeed smoothly."

Qin Guan shared the same hope, but thinking of the frozen refugees and the northern conflict Lu You Xin mentioned, her heart ached with compassion.All these wars and conflicts were caused by the emperor, yet how could ordinary people be guilty? Qin Guan felt a surge of compassion, followed by a touch of indignation. If Prince Luo hadn't met with misfortune back then, if the true Yan Huai were emperor today, how different would the Great Zhou Empire be now?

With the New Year just days away, Qin Guan continued treating Lu Boyi while observing the courtyard being swept and cleaned. Though the truth behind Lu Jingcheng's death remained undiscovered, his ancestral hall was set up two days later. Lu You Xin had procured the finest coffin for Lu Jingcheng and invited monks from Fahua Temple outside Jianzhou to perform a ritual before the coffin was temporarily sealed. However, since the murderer hadn't been identified, neither Lu You Xin nor Lu Boyong from the second branch agreed to an early burial.

Three days later, Bai Feng received news from Lanzhou. Given the great distance between Lanzhou and Jianzhou, carrier pigeons had to be used for communication. Qin Guan noticed the pigeons arriving multiple times within a single day, bringing the information she sought piece by piece to the estate.

"Princess Consort, our people in Lanzhou investigated. The ninth young master's birth mother is surnamed Xu. She currently resides in Hu County, Lanzhou, and appears to have remained there all these years under the fifth branch's instructions. The fifth branch provided her with an excellent residence and numerous servants. She lives quite comfortably now, though somewhat lonely without her child. However... there's another point: the ninth young master seems to have long known about his origins. Our investigators learned that gifts are delivered to Madam Xu's residence every year around the eighth day of the fifth month, sent by unidentified persons. Notably, the eighth of the fifth month is the ninth young master's true birth date."

"Our agents also investigated the Lu Family of Lanzhou. The fifth branch has severed contact with Madam Xu over the years, only arranging for servants to care for her, likely fearing she might renege on their agreement. Publicly, no one knows about the ninth young master's background, probably to prevent him from developing other ideas if he found out. But judging by the reports, he might have known all along. Moreover, three years ago, he personally visited Hu County once, without bringing any servants—though that was the only time."

"If the ninth young master himself knows his origins, others might know as well. The investigation period has been short, so details remain incomplete. I've already instructed others to continue investigating, and more information should arrive in another couple of days..."

Bai Feng reported everything systematically. Qin Guan had read all the messages brought by the carrier pigeons. The timeframe was indeed too brief for thorough details, but the evidence showed that while their people could locate Madam Xu, other interested parties could do the same. Since Lu Jingcheng had orchestrated the Xiushan mine disaster, investigating Lu Jinghe wouldn't be beyond their means either.