Coroner's Diary

The next morning, when Qin Guan opened her eyes, the sky outside was already faintly bright. Gathering her thoughts, she turned and saw Yan Chi beside her.

Yan Chi was still asleep, his sleeping face unlike its usual unapproachable demeanor. Qin Guan's lips curved into a smile as she unconsciously snuggled closer into his embrace. The movement stirred him awake. He turned and wrapped his arms around her, planting two kisses on the top of her head. "Why are you awake already?"

Qin Guan smiled. "Today is the first day of the month. We still need to pay respects to Aunt."

Even though they were on White Deer Isle, Qin Guan intended to observe proper etiquette. Yan Chi chuckled. "Aunt probably won’t mind such formalities. We can sleep a little longer."

Despite his words, Qin Guan struggled to sit up. Over the two days since Yan Chi’s return, she had been thoroughly exhausted. As the brocade quilt slipped down, the marks covering her body became visible. Yan Chi pulled her back into his arms. "There’s really no need to hurry. Aunt drank too much last night and probably hasn’t gotten up yet."

Qin Guan blinked. "What? Aunt got drunk?"

She seemed genuinely surprised, clearly unable to recall what had happened the previous night. Seeing her expression, Yan Chi was reminded of her drunken state and couldn’t resist kissing the tip of her nose. "Last night, it wasn’t just Aunt who had too much to drink."

Qin Guan thought for a moment. "I... I can’t remember. Did I get drunk too?"

Yan Chi leaned in to kiss her again, but Qin Guan pushed him away as she came to her senses. "I really got drunk? What did I do? Why can’t I remember anything from last night? Did I do something embarrassing? I thought I would never drink plum wine again!"

The more flustered she became, the more Yan Chi laughed. After a moment, he shook his head. "Not at all. You were just a little tipsy. Later, I brought you to rest. Nothing else happened, except..." He paused deliberately. "Except you seemed a bit dazed and kept dozing off."

Qin Guan blinked. "That’s all?"

Yan Chi nodded. "Yes, that’s all. You were just groggy outside."

Qin Guan let out a sigh of relief. "That’s good then..."

Yan Chi hummed in agreement, a sly glint flashing in his eyes. "So, it’s not that you can’t drink in the future—you just have to do it when I’m with you. I’ll keep an eye on you. If I’m not around, you shouldn’t touch a drop."

Qin Guan agreed readily. "Of course. I’ve never been able to hold my liquor well."

A broad smile remained on Yan Chi’s lips. Now that Qin Guan was fully awake, he certainly wouldn’t tell her how tightly she had clung to him the night before. Though drinking wasn’t necessarily a good thing, if he could occasionally see her in such a tipsy state, it would feel as sweet as honey to him.

Yan Chi held Qin Guan close, and the two lingered in bed, whispering and exchanging affectionate gestures for a while before finally rising. Since Qin Guan had been muddled from drinking the night before, she made up for it by distributing rewards to Fuling and the others that morning. Not long after, someone from Wutong Courtyard came to invite them over.

Yan Chi and Qin Guan left Han Dan Hall together. By the time they arrived at Wutong Courtyard, the table in front of Lu You Xin was already laden with breakfast.

"Knowing that Guan’er also drank quite a bit last night, I didn’t call for you too early. Today’s breakfast is light and delicious—come and try it."Yan Chi and the other two took their seats. Lu Youxin even recounted the events of the previous night with a laugh. Qin Guan could no longer recall many of the details, which was quite unusual for her. This made her silently resolve to drink less in the future. After finishing breakfast, the three moved to the main hall to talk.

Yan Chi said, "I had originally intended to stay here a few more days, but the military situation in Shuoxi is urgent and can no longer wait. So, I plan to enter Jianzhou City this afternoon."

Lu Youxin was taken aback, "You're leaving so soon?"

Yan Chi nodded, "We still have matters to attend to in Jianzhou and will likely stay there for a day or two."

Lu Youxin seemed about to say something but held back, sighing instead, "Very well, very well. Your affairs are of great importance, so I won’t keep you. But after this parting, who knows when we’ll meet again? You and Guan'er must take good care of yourselves."

Yan Chi and Qin Guan both responded in agreement. After a moment’s thought, Lu Youxin turned and entered the inner chamber, soon emerging with an ornate box.

"Inside this are the records of the Lu family’s properties in Qianzhou, Jianzhou, and Dingzhou. Right now, I don’t know how else to help you, but warfare always requires funds and provisions, and the troops will need their pay. Over the years, the Lu family has lost much else, but we can still offer these material resources. I’m giving all of this to you—use it as you see fit. If it’s not enough, send me a letter early. There are still many properties in Lanzhou and Jinzhou."

Hearing this, Yan Chi frowned, "Aunt, there’s no need… things haven’t reached that point yet."

Lu Youxin smiled, "Silly child, if things had reached that point, would I still have time to send you money? You’re meant for great deeds. Take these for now. If all goes smoothly, you won’t need them. But if any difficulties arise, it’s better for me to help you than for you to negotiate with others."

Yan Chi’s frown remained. Seeing this, Lu Youxin sighed, "Let me put it this way: I’ve carefully considered what you said the other day, and I believe it makes perfect sense. The descendants of the Lu family cannot cling to old ways forever. The Lu family is already in decline, and in the future, its members may rely on your care. For both personal and principled reasons, I hope you succeed, stay safe, and achieve great things. So, it’s not entirely out of selfishness that I’m giving these to you."

Most of the Lu family’s properties were in the south, and the ones Lu Youxin mentioned accounted for about half of their holdings. If Yan Chi were to make full use of them, it would undoubtedly cause significant upheaval for the Lu family. After a moment of contemplation, Yan Chi finally accepted the box, "In that case, I’ll hold onto these for now. I won’t use them unless absolutely necessary."

Only then did Lu Youxin smile happily, "I certainly hope you never reach that point. But military campaigns are never simple, and I want to support you as much as I can."

Then, Lu Youxin turned to Qin Guan, "Actually, it might be best for Guan'er to stay on White Deer Isle. But the two of you share a deep bond, and Guan'er is resilient, so I won’t say more. Guan'er, as you travel with him, take good care of your health. You’re not as sturdy as he is."Qin Guan responded repeatedly, then pulled two prescriptions from her sleeve pouch. "These two prescriptions are for Fifth Uncle. His illness requires careful nurturing, and both formulas are suitable for long-term recuperation. Since I'm leaving today and won't be able to continue treating him, he can take these prescriptions while seeking other renowned physicians."

Seeing this, Lu Youxin was deeply grateful and sighed. "I've actually made a decision regarding the Fifth Branch. Since you didn't ask, I didn't mention it earlier. This matter... I... don't plan to report the truth to the authorities. Jingcheng was at fault first, and the situation escalated to this point—he bears major responsibility. But Jinghe ultimately harmed someone. I intend to have him take Fifth Brother and his wife away from the Lu Family of Lanzhou to settle in Huzhou or Jinzhou, where they can focus on recuperating."

Leaving the Lu ancestral home meant the Fifth Branch would gradually fade from the main family line, also indicating they would no longer share in the Lu family's estate.

Qin Guan sighed. "Aunt distinguishes right from wrong clearly. This arrangement is excellent."

The three conversed for a while longer until nearly noon, when Qin Guan and Yan Chi returned to Han Dan Hall. Upon arrival, Qin Guan immediately instructed packing. Though Fuling and others were surprised, they had somewhat anticipated it. Fortunately, they had little luggage, so preparations were quickly completed. They used the same carriages and horses from their southward journey, now with additional guards, making the procession more substantial.

Soon, Qin Guan and Yan Chi supervised the loading of luggage and carriages, then went to Wutong Courtyard to bid farewell to Lu Youxin.

After this farewell, they would depart White Deer Isle.

Qin Guan had hoped to see the white deer, but winter days ended early, and they needed to enter Jianzhou City before dark. With slight regret, she thought she could visit another time. At Wutong Courtyard, Lu Jingxiu and Lu Jingyun were speaking with Lu Youxin. Suddenly seeing Yan Chi and Qin Guan, they grew visibly tense.

Lu Youxin came out to greet them. "All packed so quickly?"

Qin Guan smiled. "The sun is setting. If we don't leave now, we won't make it into the city before dark. We came to say goodbye, Aunt."

Nearby, Lu Jingyun's jaw dropped, likely not expecting Qin Guan to depart that day.

Lu Youxin sighed. "Very well, I'll see you off!"

Thus, the group headed toward the east gate. Lu Jingxiu and Lu Jingyun stood still as Lu Youxin told them, "Say no more for now. We'll discuss this after I return..."

Lu Jingxiu stood with downcast eyes, devoid of his former vigor, while Lu Jingyun murmured softly, "We wish to leave today as well."

Lu Youxin frowned deeply at this. Qin Guan looked at her questioningly, and Lu Youxin explained, "These two suddenly want to join the army, but I haven't decided yet."

Qin Guan was mildly astonished. Lu Jingxiu was one thing, but why Lu Jingyun too? Then it dawned on her—Lu Jingxiu must have conceived the idea, and Lu Jingyun decided to follow. But why would they suddenly consider military service?

Yan Chi also seemed surprised. He turned his gaze to Lu Jingxiu, his inscrutable eyes carrying a hint of chill.

"Join the army? Where do you plan to go?"

Lu Youxin smiled wryly. "They want to go to Jinzhou..."

This was her main hesitation. After hearing Yan Chi's earlier words, she had reconsidered her stance on Lu family members not entering officialdom. But if they were to enlist, it should be in the western armies. Yet, for some reason, Lu Jingxiu and the others insisted on Jinzhou.Upon hearing this, Yan Chi said calmly, "With Jinzhou's garrison moving north and the court now recruiting troops again, it is indeed an option."

Lu Youxin grew even more exasperated at these words. "They're still young and impulsive. Even if they go, it shouldn't be to Jinzhou."

Though the implication was clear, Yan Chi smiled faintly. "Aunt, there's no need to force them. Ambitious men seek opportunities everywhere. Wherever they choose to enlist, as long as they can accept the consequences of their choice. With the Great Zhou on the brink of chaos, perhaps heroes will emerge from these troubled times."

Lu Youxin didn't believe Lu Jingxiu could become any hero. In her view, it would be better for Jingxiu to go to Shuoxi and assist Yan Chi instead.

But Jingxiu didn't share this perspective, and Yan Chi showed no intention of recruiting him either.

As soon as Yan Chi finished speaking, Jingxiu lifted his gaze. He looked at Yan Chi, struggling to conceal his fear.

Their eyes met—Yan Chi's calm and unreadable, while Jingxiu's fist hidden in his sleeve unconsciously clenched. He quickly lowered his gaze. "I thank Your Highness Prince Rui for your auspicious words."

Yan Chi indifferently averted his eyes. "Since they're young, they should gain more experience. Only through experience can one find the true Path."

Yan Chi spoke like an elder, and Lu Youxin nodded repeatedly. "Yes, yes, that's exactly right."

Yan Chi said no more, taking Qin Guan's hand as they walked out. Lu Youxin accompanied them, chatting as they left Wutong Garden. Soon they passed through the gate. Jingxiu watched their retreating figures, wanting to follow, but hesitated and ultimately remained where he was.

Jingyun looked at Jingxiu. "Fifth Brother, are we really going to Jinzhou? Joining Jinzhou means serving the court. But now, Aunt clearly intends to support Prince Rui—who's been denounced by the court as a rebel traitor. Shouldn't we go to Shuoxi instead?"

Jingyun's voice grew softer as she spoke, but Jingxiu stood silently, offering no response.

...

...

After farewells outside the east gate of White Deer Isle, Yan Chi and Qin Guan boarded a carriage heading straight for Jianzhou City.

The sun slanted westward. The first day of the new year was clear, yet the air remained bitterly cold. Snow still lay unmelted on the road to Jianzhou, and the wind cut sharply.

Inside the carriage, Yan Chi held Qin Guan, who in turn cradled a warming pan. Qin Guan said, "If the Lu youths truly enlist and join the court's forces, you might face difficulties with them someday..."

Yan Chi stroked her cheek and smiled. "That day hasn't come yet, and even if it does, it's nothing to worry about. Please don't fret."

Qin Guan murmured assent and leaned lazily against Yan Chi, closing her eyes in feigned sleep.

The carriage traveled slowly, arriving at Jianzhou's city gates while daylight still lingered. Yan Chi had made arrangements beforehand—their carriage entered the city and went directly to a residential house in the southern district.

The two-courtyard residence was spacious, elegantly appointed, and quite suitable for their brief stay in Jianzhou.

They entered the main courtyard together while Fuling and the others unloaded their luggage from the carriage. After settling in slightly, the two sat down to talk.

"When do you plan to meet with Prefect Yao?" Qin Guan asked.

Yan Chi replied, "I'll send a message tonight. Ideally, we can meet tomorrow."

Qin Guan nodded. "I sent a letter to Xinlan, but I don't know what she thinks yet. Perhaps—"

Yan Chi took her hand. "My men have already reached the Jianzhou garrison. There's no need to contact Yao Xinlan for now. Let me meet her father first. If you wish to catch up with her later, there will be time."Qin Guan had initially contacted Yao Xinlan out of concern that Yan Chi might not return for the New Year. Now that Yan Chi was back, these matters were better left to the menfolk. Qin Guan nodded, "Very well, I'll leave it be."

Yan Chi drew Qin Guan into his embrace and said, "You've been tired these past two days. Just rest well."

Qin Guan understood his meaning and blushed. They held each other and talked for a while before Yan Chi read some letters from Shuoxi. Then they retired for the night.

The next morning, after they rose and had breakfast, Yan Chi left the residence. Qin Guan didn't ask where he was going, content to rest at home. Fuling attended to her and, seeing Qin Guan alone, asked, "Princess Consort, will we really get to see the young mistress again?"

Yao Xinlan was originally Qin Chen's wife, and Fuling still addressed her as "young mistress," not having adjusted to the change.

Qin Guan sighed, thinking of Yao Xinlan and the Qin family of Jinzhou - it all felt as distant as a previous lifetime.

"I don't know. I've sent my letter - it depends on whether she wants to meet. I don't know how she's faring in Jianzhou now. Seeing me might just bring back old memories unnecessarily. She was always prone to overthinking, so I'd understand if she chooses not to see me."

Fuling tilted her head thoughtfully, "The young miss must be over a year old now?"

Qin Guan smiled and nodded, "A year and a half."

Fuling sighed at Yao Xinlan's unfortunate fate but said nothing more.

Yan Chi didn't return until noon. After lunch, unexpected guests arrived at the residence.

When Bai Feng came to report, Qin Guan was surprised, but Yan Chi smiled knowingly, "That must be Prefect Yao. Wait here - I'll receive him in the study."

Confident in Yan Chi's assurance, Qin Guan felt relieved and agreed.

After Yan Chi left, Qin Guan relaxed, grateful they hadn't encountered obstacles with Prefect Yao.

While sitting in the Warm Chamber, footsteps sounded outside again. Bai Feng's voice came through, "Please wait a moment, I'll announce you."

Following this, a soft woman's voice replied. Though Qin Guan couldn't hear clearly from inside, the voice felt strangely familiar. As she wondered, Fuling suddenly gasped outside, then hurried footsteps approached the Warm Chamber. The door curtain lifted, revealing Fuling's excited face, "Princess Consort! Come see who's here!"

Qin Guan's heart leaped as she stood and hurried out. Stepping outside, her eyes immediately fell upon Yao Xinlan standing in the snowy courtyard.

Qin Guan paused, warmth flowing through her heart as she exclaimed, "Eldest Brother's Wife—"

After more than a year apart, Yao Xinlan was no longer the woman she remembered. The former Yao Xinlan had been obsessively in love with Qin Chen, growing increasingly suspicious and frail. But the present Yao Xinlan was different - dressed in elegant robes, her hair styled in a married woman's coiffure adorned with exquisite pearls, her face lightly made up. Despite the deep winter, she stood smiling by the courtyard's snowdrifts like a delicate spring crabapple blossom. Beside her, a middle-aged woman held an exquisitely beautiful little girl. Looking from Yao Xinlan to the child, Qin Guan felt her eyes grow warm.

"Ninth Sister—"Seeing Qin Guan step forward, Yao Xinlan also approached, grasping Qin Guan’s hands while studying her closely. Compared to her previously gloomy and despondent self, Yao Xinlan’s eyes now shone brightly. After looking Qin Guan up and down, she laughed and said, “No, I should call you Princess Consort now… Greetings to the Princess Consort…”

As Yao Xinlan began to curtsy, Qin Guan quickly stopped her. “Eldest Brother’s Wife, what are you doing? You’re making me feel unworthy. I had no idea you were coming—if I had known, I would have come out to greet you. It’s cold outside; let’s go inside to talk… Is this Qiqi?”

The middle-aged woman, likely Qiqi’s upbringing Momma, held the child and bowed to Qin Guan. Qin Guan quickly steadied her and turned her attention to little Qiqi.

Qiqi was the name Yao Xinlan had given her daughter. Now just over a year old, Qiqi was the spitting image of her mother. Well cared for and doted upon, she was as plump and fair as a snowball. Unafraid of Qin Guan, when Qin Guan tentatively reached out to hold her, Qiqi eagerly threw herself into Qin Guan’s arms.

“Gu… Gu-gu…”

At just over a year old, Qiqi’s speech was still unclear, her attempts at “Auntie” muddled and indistinct. Qin Guan, already delighted to hold the soft little bundle, was overjoyed by the effort. She immediately carried Qiqi inside, saying, “Quick, let’s go in and talk!”

Qin Guan led Yao Xinlan and her daughter into the Warm Chamber, setting Qiqi down on the daybed to play while the two women sat beside it to chat.

Fuling and the others served tea before withdrawing, leaving the room empty for a while.

Yao Xinlan held Qin Guan’s hand and said, “I was so excited when I received your letter. Earlier, Father was supposed to be promoted to the capital, but because of the Jinzhou incident, he was somewhat affected. Since I had just returned from Jinzhou at that time, Father thought it would be better to stay in Jianzhou—after all, it’s my home—rather than seek the promotion. Over the past year or so, Father has been very good to me, and the whole family has taken great care of me. I’ve been living well. Today, Father originally intended to come alone, knowing His Highness had important matters to discuss, but I insisted on tagging along. So much has changed in the world over this past year, yet we ourselves haven’t changed much…”

Yao Xinlan was naturally aware of Yan Chi and Qin Guan’s current circumstances. Qin Guan smiled and said, “I was just telling him that I didn’t know if I’d get to see you. He said he would meet your father first and then catch up with you. We arrived in the city last night, and I was thinking of sending you a message tonight.”

As they spoke, Qiqi crawled around on the daybed, playing. She seemed particularly fond of Qin Guan, constantly tugging at her sleeve. Yao Xinlan remarked, “On the way here, I tried teaching her to call you ‘Auntie,’ but she’s so clumsy—she just can’t get it right…”

Qin Guan slipped a jade bracelet from her wrist and gave it to Qiqi to play with, smiling as she said, “She’s doing just fine. Seeing her makes me incredibly happy.”

Yao Xinlan replied, “I brought her along so she could meet her lifesaver. Who knows when we’ll see each other again after this? I know you’re heading to Shuoxi. Ah, I never imagined you’d end up with Prince Rui.”

Mentioning Yan Chi brought a natural smile to Qin Guan’s face. “Back in Jinzhou, there wasn’t much between us. Later, on my way to the capital, I ran into him again. He escorted us the entire journey, and after arriving in the capital, he helped me a great deal.”Yao Xinlan smiled, "Seeing your appearance, I know you are doing very well, and that puts my mind at ease. When I first saw you, I felt you were extraordinary. Back then, even after spending many days in the manor, they still hadn't noticed. I just met His Highness Prince Rui—you two are truly well-matched."

The two were old acquaintances, yet their memories of Jinzhou were far from pleasant, so neither dwelled on the subject. After chatting for a while, Qin Guan asked Yao Xinlan about her future plans. Yao Xinlan replied, "As a widow with a child, I have no intention of remarrying. My father previously tried to arrange something for me, but I refused. Qiqi is still so young—no matter whom I married, she would suffer. I won’t allow that. Besides, I’m perfectly content living on my own now. There’s no need for me to dwell on such matters. Perhaps someday, if I meet someone I truly fancy, I might reconsider." After a pause, she added, "I understood what you wrote in your letter the other day. Don’t worry. When winter comes, I’ll be setting up porridge sheds outside the city to distribute food to the needy. I’ll speak with my father soon and ask him not to hinder the commoners from entering the city."

Naturally, Qin Guan did not urge Yao Xinlan to remarry. The Yao Xinlan of today was far happier than she had been during her time at Qin Manor in Jinzhou.

They conversed a while longer before Qin Guan began to play with Qiqi. Having never encountered such a young child before, she found the experience utterly delightful, stirring a deep sense of tenderness within her. Qin Guan gifted Qiqi all the bracelets and hairpins she wore, along with other lavish presents—only the pendant Yan Chi had given her was withheld. They lingered in the Warm Chamber for half an hour until someone from the Yao family came to summon Yao Xinlan. Qin Guan had hoped to invite her to stay for a meal, but it was not to be.

Yao Xinlan smiled and said, "Given your current special status, my father remains somewhat uneasy. He insisted before I came that I shouldn’t stay long. It seems they’ve settled their matters, so I’ll take my leave now. We’ll surely meet again."

Qin Guan personally escorted Yao Xinlan out of the inner courtyard. There, they saw Yan Chi standing side by side with a middle-aged man—Yao Xinlan’s father. Qin Guan stepped forward to pay her respects, then joined Yan Chi in seeing them off beyond the residence gates.

"How did it go? Is everything settled?" Qin Guan couldn’t resist asking as they walked back toward the inner courtyard.

Yan Chi nodded with a smile. "Yes, all is settled. Given Jianzhou’s position, they had little grounds to refuse me. Had Prefect Yao insisted, it would have taken more effort, but he is a pragmatic man. We can set off for Shuoxi tomorrow!"

The smooth resolution took Qin Guan by surprise. Thinking of finally heading to Shuoxi, she breathed a sigh of relief.

Noticing her relaxation, Yan Chi remarked, "Wanwan, Shuoxi is a different world. Are you prepared for it?"

Qin Guan understood his meaning and smiled. "Of course I am. If you endured over a decade there, why should I be unable to go? Don’t worry."

Yan Chi felt both tender and guilty. On their last night before departure, he ordered Bai Feng to purchase numerous supplies. Though unfamiliar with women’s preferences, he bought whatever Qin Guan lacked and noticed her modest wardrobe, so he acquired duplicates of everything. To those in the know, it was Prince Rui doting on his princess consort; to others, it might seem like an upstart merchant with no taste was on a shopping spree...

Since they were to depart for Shuoxi the next day, Yan Chi did not exhaust Qin Guan that night. They rested well and rose early the following morning. Thanks to Yan Chi’s extensive shopping, the procession gained three additional large carriages. As the sun rose, the grand convoy marched westward out of Jianzhou City.Although the New Year had passed, the heart of winter still gripped the first lunar month. For Qin Guan's sake, Yan Chi had chosen to ride horseback and travel by carriage—a journey that would take at least half a month. As they ventured westward, Qin Guan gradually realized Yan Chi's words were no jest.

Though heavy snow blanketed Jianzhou, it retained the charm of southern landscapes. Yet once they crossed into the northern reaches of Qianzhou, the scenery transformed dramatically. Sparse greenery lined the roads, and the thick snowdrifts grew increasingly daunting. Their route would take them from northern Qianzhou into Liangzhou, then south of Yanxing Mountain into Shuoxi. Over seven or eight days of travel, the snowfall intensified, winds sharpened, and mountain paths grew steeper and more treacherous. Only upon entering Liangzhou did the road conditions improve slightly.

Folks often said "timely snow foretells a bumper harvest," but this year's snowfall in Liangzhou had been sparse. This made their carriage journey somewhat easier. In Liangzhou, Yu Qi—previously left behind in Jianzhou by Yan Chi—and Zhang Dongxuan, who had been in Qianzhou, were already awaiting their arrival. One day, Qin Guan's party reached Wei County in northern Liangzhou, where she reunited with Zhang Dongxuan and Yu Qi in an ordinary civilian residence south of the county town.

With Jianzhou now secure, Yu Qi naturally returned to Shuoxi to serve by Yan Chi's side. Zhang Dongxuan, valued by Yan Chi, would not remain in Qianzhou either. After exchanging formal greetings, the group settled in the main hall to converse.

Yu Qi spoke first, "Your Highness, I arrived yesterday afternoon. Last night, I received excellent news!"

Yan Chi raised an eyebrow, "What news?"

Yu Qi produced a letter from his sleeve and presented it respectfully. When Yan Chi opened it, his gaze abruptly sharpened.

Qin Guan watched him in puzzlement as Yu Qi explained, "Princess Consort, that treacherous dog Jiang Heying has been executed!"

Qin Guan's heart jolted, finally understanding the source of Yan Chi's intense expression.

Yu Qi continued, "Our men tracked him down after cornering him in the mountains for over ten days. In this weather, without food, freezing to death is inevitable. When we found him, he was nearly frozen stiff—he'd slaughtered his own horse for food, barely refraining from cannibalism."

Yan Chi shot Yu Qi a frown. Catching the hint, Yu Qi hastily rubbed his nose and apologized, "Princess Consort, this humble one is coarse-spoken. I beg your forgiveness."

Qin Guan smiled, "Speak as you normally would. Such words don't frighten me."

Despite her reassurance, Yu Qi dared not be too unrestrained, scratching his head with an awkward chuckle before resuming his seat.

Zhang Dongxuan interjected, "This humble Daoist also arrived yesterday afternoon. Recent celestial observations reveal turbulent shifts in northern constellations—portents of great conflict and calamity. Meanwhile, our western skies remain peaceful. Your Highness should gather more intelligence from the north."

Yan Chi nodded, "Lin Xugui is at his last gasp. As for the north, the Northern Garrison Army has begun marching southward, inevitably triggering major battles."

At this, Yu Qi's eyes lit up again, "Master Qi and General Chu have long awaited Your Highness. Most officers have been rescued from camp, with some remaining as inside agents. Once you reach Shuoxi, we can eradicate Lin Xugui's entire nest in one sweep!"Yan Chi lightly tapped his fingers on the chair back. "Although Lin Xugui has temporarily lowered his guard, the Northwest Frontier Army camp is my father's life's work. I don’t want to ruin the camp because of one Lin Xugui. Have Chu Fei Sheng devise a secure plan—it’s best if this is accomplished quietly."

Yu Qi quickly nodded. "Yes, yes, the Northwest Frontier Army camp is our foundation."

Yan Chi shook his head. "This time, we may not use the Northwest Frontier Army camp as our foundation."

Upon hearing this, Yu Qi raised an eyebrow. Yan Chi narrowed his eyes and said, "This situation is different from before. Although the Northwest Frontier Army camp has become the strongest fortress in the Northwest over the years, one fortress is not enough if we are to oppose the imperial court. To establish ourselves as rulers, we must occupy a city."

Yu Qi and Zhang Dongxuan exchanged a glance, their eyes lighting up. Yu Qi hurriedly asked, "Which place has Your Highness set his sights on?"

Zhang Dongxuan added, "Liangzhou? Or Dingzhou?"

Yan Chi shook his head. "Liangzhou lies south of Yanxing Mountain, only connecting to the Northwest at its western border. Dingzhou is north of Yanxing Mountain. Neither seems suitable at the moment. I’m thinking of Xilin City."

Qin Guan, listening nearby, slightly raised an eyebrow. Xilin City—a name rarely heard elsewhere—was not an ordinary prefecture of the Great Zhou. It was a city on the eastern edge of the Northwest Plateau, under the jurisdiction of Mengzhou for many years. Though part of Mengzhou’s territory, due to the unique terrain of the Northwest Plateau, it was only nominally governed by Mengzhou. In reality, Xilin City was the most populous settlement on the Northwest Plateau. Originally just a large market town on the plateau, it had now grown into a city comparable to Jianzhou City and had become a strategic transportation hub on the plateau.

Yan Chi continued, "Our foundation lies in the Northwest, not the Northwest Frontier Army camp. Xilin City already has my father’s royal residence in the Northwest. Raising the royal banner of Prince Rui’s residence in Xilin City is the most appropriate move—"

Yu Qi grew excited upon hearing this. "Exactly! That makes perfect sense! Although the royal residence here has been vacant for years, Your Highness must occupy a city to declare yourself ruler!"

Zhang Dongxuan also smiled. "Your Highness is indeed sharp. Liangzhou is too far back, Dingzhou is too far forward. Xilin City’s location is truly exceptional—bordering Liangzhou to the south, capable of pressuring Mengzhou to the north, and also able to attack Dingzhou. Its position is ideal for defense and difficult to assault, making it a suitable royal city."

Yan Chi nodded, asked a few more questions about the Northwest, and then said no more, dismissing everyone to rest.

After waiting a short while, the main courtyard had been tidied up. Yan Chi took Qin Guan to the main courtyard to rest.

Although the discussion had gone smoothly, Yan Chi’s expression remained somber. After sitting down, he was still lost in thought.

Qin Guan poured a cup of hot tea and placed it by Yan Chi’s hand, asking softly, "What’s wrong?"

Yan Chi snapped out of his thoughts, pulled her into his lap, and said, "Do you want to go to Xilin City first?"

Qin Guan frowned. "No, I want to go with you."Yan Chi's brows relaxed into a smile as he finally spoke in a leisurely tone, "The Shuoxi Garrison is established east of White Wolf Mountain. Initially, the fortress was built there solely for attacking the Rong people. Later, my father guarded Shuoxi year-round. It was about fifteen years ago when my father led troops to defeat the Rong. When the emperor wanted to reward him, he realized my father already held the rank of prince and had nothing left to bestow. Considering my father remained in Shuoxi perpetually, the emperor gifted him a royal residence there. Among the tribes and cities in Shuoxi, none were particularly large except Xilin City, which was the most prosperous. Thus, the royal residence was built in Xilin City. After its completion, my father only visited it two or three times. Now, only one or two servants remain to guard it."

Qin Guan listened quietly and smiled at this point. "Then it's perfect timing for us to tidy up the royal residence when we arrive, giving us a place to stay."

Yan Chi nodded. "Indeed, the royal residence in Xilin City follows the same structure as those in the capital, though it lacks the centuries-old trees. This way, you won't be inconvenienced."

Qin Guan turned to face Yan Chi. "I'm not inconvenienced. Even if I didn't have to join the battle, should such a day come, I wouldn't fear it."

Yan Chi chuckled at her words. "If that day ever comes, it would be my failure. I would never let my woman take up arms against the Rong enemies."

Qin Guan held onto Yan Chi's shoulders. "Anyway, I don't want to go to Xilin City alone. I see you've bought me many clothes, jewelry, and daily necessities, but those mean little to me. I can travel light with you to join General Chu and the others. Do what you must, just give me a sheltered place to stay. If anyone gets injured, I'm still the best physician in Great Zhou. Wouldn't I be able to help then?"

Yan Chi smiled wryly. "You haven't seen it—it's nothing like your Corpse Examinations."

Corpses are the dead, and usually, there's only one body. But war is different...

Watching thousands of soldiers thrust white blades in and red blades out, witnessing living people lose limbs and have their bellies torn open—such scenes are entirely unlike Corpse Examination. Yet Qin Guan was not unaware. She blinked. "I may not be as brave as all of you, but I'm not weak either. I don't want to cause you trouble, but I want to know how you lived those past ten-plus years..."

After saying this, Qin Guan lowered her voice. "If I really am in the way, then I can go to Xilin City first."

Qin Guan did have selfish motives in saying all this. Last time, when Yan Chi went to Qianzhou, she didn't accompany him, and this time she didn't want to be separated again. It was true that she wanted to see the kind of life Yan Chi led, true that she wanted to stay by his side, and true that she wanted to help. But if it really wasn't feasible, then she would have to wait for Yan Chi in Xilin City.

Hearing the dejection in Qin Guan's voice, Yan Chi took a shallow breath and couldn't resist kissing her lips twice. "Of course not, I just don't want you to suffer."

Qin Guan quickly lifted her head. "I'm not afraid! Since I'm with you, I'd rather endure some hardship than choose separation."

Yan Chi held Qin Guan tightly and said no more. "Then we'll truly travel light?"

Qin Guan nodded happily. "I'll go instruct Fuling right away—"She made to break free from Yan Chi's embrace, but he chuckled and held her firmly. "There's no rush. I still want to talk with you. Before, we never thought we'd end up living in the royal residence at Xilin City. Later, as circumstances changed and we went to Xilin City, Prince Rui's residence was no longer what it used to be. That's why I want to share more with you now..."

Qin Guan obediently leaned against Yan Chi, and he began recounting matters of Xilin City in a gentle, unhurried tone. "...The people of the Northwest Frontier are the most sincere—you'll understand once you go there. When you see how cheap goods are in Xilin City, you'll probably say I overspent on everything I bought before. The sun rises late there and sets late too. There's a type of fruit that's exceptionally sweet; every summer, the local magistrate sends large quantities to the army. The people of the Northwest Frontier rely entirely on the Northwest Frontier Army for protection. For their sake, the army dares not slacken even for a single day. And they... they've never considered leaving the frontier for safer lands up north..."

Yan Chi's words were drawn-out and warm. Qin Guan listened quietly, suddenly realizing that even when speaking of the capital, Yan Chi would hardly use such a gentle tone. This place he had guarded for over a decade, where his father had exhausted a lifetime of effort, was his second home—a land he would forever protect. Though the situation was perilous, perhaps Xilin City truly was where she and Yan Chi would spend the next half of their lives. Though still unfamiliar with this frontier town, just hearing Yan Chi speak of it filled Qin Guan's heart with peace and contentment. And if she could grow old with Yan Chi by her side, what difference did the location make?