Coroner's Diary

Qin Guan had an extremely long dream.

In the dream, she stood before the capital city gates, surrounded by a constant stream of noble families and powerful officials. On the broad imperial road, a red carpet stretched all the way to Anyang Gate. Alone, she held a petition in her hand, walking step by step toward Anyang Gate, past the opulence and wealth of the capital, past the administrative offices of the Six Ministries, until finally, she arrived before the Court of Judicial Review.

The Court of Judicial Review oversaw all criminal cases in the empire. Qin Guan beat the drum and presented her petition. The presiding official seated high in the golden hall of the court took one look and declared that Shen Yi's crimes were all false accusations and wrongful convictions. He then submitted a memorial to the emperor. Qin Guan had barely waited outside the Court of Judicial Review for a moment when three Imperial Riders emerged from the towering palace. The one at the forefront held a Bright Yellow Imperial Edict, and before he even drew near, his voice rang out loudly as he proclaimed the edict.

"Upon investigation, it has been confirmed that the crimes of former Minister of the Court of Judicial Review Shen Yi were indeed a miscarriage of justice. Now, his innocence is proclaimed to the world, restoring his reputation and vindicating his name after death..."

Before the edict could finish being read, Qin Guan's eyes snapped open.

This was the outcome she had longed for, but the dream was too illusory. Even as she dreamed, she knew it was just a dream—because everything had come too easily. She was acutely aware that she could never enter Anyang Gate, had never visited the offices of the Six Ministries, and couldn't even step into the public hall of the Court of Judicial Review. The presiding official there would never even glance at her petition.

The Court of Judicial Review handled crimes involving officials and all cases punishable by exile or worse. A month had already passed since the incident, and the court must have already appointed a new presiding official. Without the initial review from the Office of the Capital Magistrate, her petition wouldn’t even make it to the court’s hall.

Qin Guan squeezed her eyes shut tightly, then opened them again, her gaze now clear and composed.

The bed curtains were drawn on all sides, and the light filtering in from outside was brighter than usual at this hour of the morning. Qin Guan knew it was already late, but the room was eerily quiet. Where was Fuling? Why hadn’t she come to wake her?

The question arose in Qin Guan’s mind, but she didn’t move. She had stayed up all night the night before and hadn’t slept a wink the entire day yesterday, which was why she had slept so deeply this time. Though it was late, she still didn’t feel like getting up.

Just as she was indulging in this rare moment of lazing in bed, the outer door creaked open, and someone tiptoed inside.

"Shh, keep your voice down. The young miss is still asleep."

That was Fuling’s voice. Soon after, another voice spoke up, "Why is the young miss still asleep? I don’t think I’ve ever seen her sleep in before..."

"The young miss has been exhausted these past few days. Be quiet."

"The young miss didn’t return for two nights. Did something happen at the Marquis’s estate?"

Fuling seemed to hesitate before replying, "Indeed. Old Madam of the Marquis’s estate hasn’t been well, and she trusts only the young miss, so she insisted on keeping her there. The night before last, the young miss watched over Old Madam the entire night..."

"Ah, doesn’t the Marquis’s estate have maidservants?"

Fuling sighed helplessly. "Of course they have maidservants. It’s just that the young miss is devoted to Old Madam."

The other speaker was Wan Tang. Hearing this, Wan Tang chuckled. "Old Madam of the Marquis’s estate is of noble status. It’s our young miss’s good fortune to earn her favor."

Fuling was quite pleased with this remark. "Exactly. Old Madam treats our young miss like her own granddaughter."

Wan Tang sighed. "Sister Fuling, you might not know this yet, but the Sixth Young Miss is still confined for her reckless words back then. Old Madam gave strict orders—she won’t even be allowed to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival..."Fuling snorted, "She got what she deserved."

Wan Tang quickly chimed in with agreement upon hearing this. The commotion disturbed Qin Guan, who had been lying on the bed, forcing her to rise. The moment she stirred slightly, Fuling noticed from outside, "Ah, the young miss is awake! You wait here—"

"Yes, Sister Fuling, please go in quickly."

Wan Tang responded sensibly, and Fuling entered the inner chamber.

As soon as she stepped in, she indeed saw Qin Guan awake and hurried forward to draw the bed curtains. "Why is the young miss awake already? This servant thought it would be best if you slept until noon."

Qin Guan shook her head, "That would be too improper."

Fuling fetched Qin Guan's clothes while shaking her head, "The young miss was busy all night the night before last and didn't rest at all yesterday. This servant noticed you've grown thinner from exhaustion. Naturally, you should sleep more to regain your strength."

Qin Guan curved her lips slightly and lazily stretched her neck. "My body is indeed quite weary, but all the urgent matters are done now. It won't be like this anymore—"

"Who said you're done?"

The moment Qin Guan finished speaking, another voice, laced with amusement, rang out. Qin Guan raised an eyebrow to see a dashing figure stride into the inner chamber—Yue Ning, dressed in lake-green men's attire. Wan Tang followed behind Yue Ning but stopped at the threshold, not daring to enter. She glanced inside with a rather guilty expression.

Qin Guan gave Yue Ning a helpless smile and waved at Wan Tang, "Alright, you may leave."

Fuling smiled and bowed, "Greetings, Your Highness. You've come quite early—"

Yue Ning went straight to sit nearby, flicking her robe aside as she grinned at Qin Guan. "Really... can't handle just one sleepless night? I came later thinking you might be sluggish today, but I didn't expect you'd still be lazing in bed." She tilted her chin up slightly. "Your body is still too delicate..."

As she said this, Yue Ning suddenly studied Qin Guan thoughtfully. Qin Guan shook her head while stepping down to put on her outer robe. "I know what Your Highness is thinking. I'm not cut out for martial arts, and at my age, it's a bit late anyway."

Yue Ning raised an eyebrow, somewhat exasperated. "I hadn't even said anything yet..."

Fuling covered her mouth with a light chuckle. "Your Highness doesn't know—the young miss is always like this. Before others even speak, she already knows what they're thinking. Sometimes it's downright frustrating."

Yue Ning gave a soft hum. "Your young miss has sharp eyes, but extreme wisdom invites harm. Seeing too clearly isn't always good. You'd better pray she becomes a bit slower and duller."

Fuling glanced at Qin Guan. "This servant wouldn't dare. All I can do is find ways to nourish the young miss's health."

Yue Ning then looked toward the outer chamber. "When I came in, I caught the scent of breakfast—there seemed to be medicinal herbs in it. Is that your doing to replenish your young miss?"

"Indeed. This servant noticed the young miss didn't look well when she returned yesterday, so I had the kitchen prepare a bowl of Snow Ginseng Soup. Would Your Highness like a bowl later?" As she spoke, Qin Guan had finished dressing. Fuling adjusted her collar and sleeves while adding, "This servant read in a book that ginseng has a sweet, slightly cold nature. It primarily nourishes the five viscera, calms the spirit, stabilizes the soul, relieves palpitations, dispels evil qi, clears the mind, sharpens the eyes, and harmonizes energy. Long-term consumption lightens the body and prolongs life. Young miss, did this servant remember correctly?"Qin Guan listened with a warm smile and nodded at the end. "You've memorized the medicinal effects of ginseng very well. But do you recall the prescription at the beginning of the ginseng section in the medical book I gave you?"

Fuling immediately straightened her expression and thought for a moment before answering, "This servant remembers it was the Mind-Stabilizing Pill, correct?"

By then, Qin Guan was fully dressed and walked over to the prepared water basin to freshen up. She casually asked, "Then tell me, apart from ginseng, what other ingredients are used in the Mind-Stabilizing Pill?"

Though Qin Guan's question seemed offhand, it was clearly a test for Fuling, who grew nervous at once. "This servant remembers, besides ginseng, there's white Fuling, calamus, honey... and..." Holding the towel for Qin Guan to dry her face, Fuling frowned deeply, unable to recall the last ingredient after a long pause.

Yue Ning, watching from the side, couldn't help but sigh. "What an amusing pair of mistress and servant you are, actually quizzing each other like this..."

Qin Guan took the towel and wiped her face. "Fortunately, you didn't forget your own name. There's also polygala, ground into fine powder. Take three qian each time, boiled in one cup of water until reduced to seven-tenths, to be taken orally."

Fuling's eyes lit up. "Yes, yes, it's polygala..." Then she glanced at Yue Ning. "Please forgive this servant's foolishness, Your Highness."

Yue Ning naturally didn't mind, watching with playful amusement as she rested her chin on one hand. "No wonder other young ladies' maids often have names related to music, chess, calligraphy, painting, flowers, or plants—either elegant and refined or sweet and charming. Yet yours is Fuling. If someone were illiterate, they wouldn't even know what your name means. It turns out it's because your mistress excels in medicine. Now that she's teaching you medical knowledge, it must be your destiny..."

Fuling laughed at this. "Actually, my name was given by the young mistress. Back then, the madam was still alive. When she first saw me, it was customary to give me a new name, so she called the young mistress over. At that time, the young mistress was holding a book and simply pointed at a word in it—that's how I got this name."

Qin Guan, who was tying up her hair nearby, paused slightly upon hearing this. She hadn't known this detail, but Fuling's account made it seem like quite a coincidence. It appeared the former Ninth Miss had indeed read some medical books.

After Yue Ning and Fuling exchanged a few more lighthearted remarks, Qin Guan finished dressing and stood up to leave. She glanced at Yue Ning and said, "Your Highness surely didn't come just to banter with us mistress and servant. Nor, I imagine, just to share a breakfast."

Yue Ning rose and followed Qin Guan out. At these words, she lifted her chin defiantly. "Others would be honored if I visited them, yet here you are, acting as if you're bothered by my presence?"

Qin Guan chuckled. "I merely noticed that Your Highness mentioned earlier that I wasn't done with my tasks, yet you still haven't said why you came to see me. I was just reminding you."

Yue Ning raised her chin slightly, feigning composure. "At least wait until you've had breakfast. There's no hurry."Hearing Yue Ning say this, Qin Guan indeed sat down to eat, maintaining her usual unhurried and deliberate pace, which eventually made Yue Ning unable to hold back. "Wei Yanzhi's case has now made progress. Everything that needed to be found has been found. Currently, the Prefect has handed the case over to several military advisors from the inspection bureau to review the details together, hoping to finalize the report before the officials from the capital arrive in Jinzhou. You know, this case will at least be reported to the Ministry of Justice. The final verdict on Wei Yanzhi won’t be decided by the Prefect. However... I didn’t come today for Wei Yanzhi, but for Young Master Wei."

Qin Guan raised her brows. "Is his leg not doing well?"

Yue Ning sighed. "It’s all because of Second Brother. At this point, the Marquis’s residence has no obligation to continue getting involved. But yesterday, Second Brother found Fish Maw Glue for you and felt he had contributed to the case just like you. Then, he became even more determined to bring Young Master Wei into the Marquis's residence. Young Master Wei has now been proven innocent and was mistakenly injured by the Prefect. The Prefect was considering whether to personally take care of him, but then Second Brother spoke up..."

Qin Guan couldn’t help but laugh. "So the Prefect gratefully agreed to Second Young Master’s request?"

"Exactly." Yue Ning smiled wryly. "You’ve seen Wei Qizhi’s condition. Governor Huo was afraid something might happen to Wei Qizhi in prison, which could lead to further trouble. Yesterday afternoon, right after you left, he sent him to the Marquis's residence. His injuries, delayed for two days in prison, had already worsened. They wanted to ask for your help then, but considering you hadn’t slept the previous night and were exhausted, they didn’t come. But by this morning, while other injuries were manageable, Wei Qizhi’s leg had become severely infected. The physician from Renshou Hall, Dr. Yang, said it might not be salvageable. Second Brother panicked and sent me to fetch you..."

Yue Ning shrugged. "Seeing you practice medicine and save lives, Second Brother has developed a compassionate heart too. Don’t blame him."

Qin Guan set down her chopsticks, wiped her lips, and stood up. "Second Young Master has always been kind-hearted. It’s not because of me. How could I blame him? I had a feeling Wei Qizhi’s injuries might take a turn for the worse when I saw him the other day."

Yue Ning gasped softly. "What should we do then?"

Qin Guan sighed. "We’ll know after examining him. Let's go to the Marquis's residence now."

Fuling cleared the table and immediately fetched the cape. Soon, Qin Guan was ready and headed out.

Once they boarded the carriage outside the residence, Yue Ning exhaled softly. "This case is now settled, but it’s still quite lamentable. What do you think will happen to Wei Yanzhi?"Qin Guan narrowed her eyes slightly upon hearing this, pausing for a moment before replying, "Naturally, it will be according to the laws of the Great Zhou. Moreover, in this case, Wei Yanzhi not only murdered Song Rou and went to great lengths to cover it up and frame others, but also harbored malicious intentions toward me. Even if emotions outweigh the law, there's no possibility of leniency—he will most likely receive a severe sentence. And... once the Wei and Duke's households learn that the one involved with Song Rou wasn't Wei Qizhi but Wei Yanzhi, everyone from both families will surely despise him to the core. Although Lord Wei has always favored his illegitimate son, given the circumstances, he would never plead for Wei Yanzhi. Meanwhile, Lady Wei, heartbroken over Wei Qizhi being framed by Wei Yanzhi, and the Duke's household, furious at being deceived by him, will likely exert additional pressure. So, the final judgment against Wei Yanzhi is predictable."

Yue Ning fell silent for a moment. "Thinking about it this way, I now understand why Wei Yanzhi was so grief-stricken when he spoke of his birth mother that day. His father was unreliable, and as an illegitimate son, neither his stepmother nor the Duke's household offered him any security. Only his birth mother would always stand by his side, yet..."

Qin Guan sighed. "One tragedy led to another. In Wei Yanzhi's heart, he has been alone since his mother's death. Now, he has simply returned to that same desolation."

"Pitiable, lamentable, yet also detestable and despicable." As she said this, Yue Ning suddenly looked at Qin Guan and asked, "Then do you think he ever truly loved Song Rou? Was it his instigation that led Song Rou to name Wei Qizhi?"

Qin Guan pondered briefly before narrowing her eyes slightly. "Perhaps there was some truth to it. As for whether he instigated it, I cannot say."

Yue Ning was surprised. "What do you mean? If he truly loved her, how could he have killed Song Rou so brutally?"

Qin Guan shook her head. "His brutality in killing Song Rou is undeniable, but it's also possible that he once harbored genuine feelings for her. These two things aren't mutually exclusive—people change. Wei Yanzhi was intelligent; he must have known early on that he and Song Rou had no future. Yet, fostering a closer relationship with her was advantageous for him. Given his restraint and self-control, he could have subtly encouraged Song Rou's affection without crossing the line. But he did cross it. Was it merely reckless indulgence for momentary pleasure, like some libertine?"

She sighed, her tone tinged with lingering sorrow. "Of course not. I suspect there might have been moments when he truly wished for a future with Song Rou. Perhaps he even made efforts, only to later realize the futility. And when Song Rou became pregnant, things spiraled beyond control, forcing him to sober up and ultimately choose his own future."

Yue Ning, having never experienced such complexities, could only think in absolutes—love was love, and lack thereof was lack thereof. If Wei Yanzhi committed murder, he must be cold-blooded and heartless. But hearing Qin Guan's perspective left her momentarily stunned.

After a pause, Yue Ning exhaled deeply. "During the Corpse Examination, your calm and solemn demeanor was almost intimidating. When deducing the case, your insights were sharp and clear. I thought for sure you, being so righteous, would never speak a single word in Wei Yanzhi's defense. Yet now, you suggest he wasn't always cruel to Song Rou. Qin Guan, you continue to amaze me."Qin Guan shook her head. "No one is born evil. Even the most vicious individuals have a soft spot in their hearts. A thief who steals gold and silver might still give alms to beggars, and a bandit who takes lives may return home to honor his parents and cherish his wife and children. It's not that I think too highly of people—these are simply the common truths of human nature. It's just that you, my lady, are truly righteous in hating evil and haven't considered these nuances."

Yue Ning raised an eyebrow. "Really... you always have a way with words."

Hearing this, Qin Guan laughed. "I was clearly praising you, my lady. Couldn't you tell?"

Yue Ning snorted lightly and casually lifted the carriage window curtain. It was already late August, and the autumn air grew more pronounced. Even during the day, the breeze carried a chill. "The people from the capital will arrive in a couple of days. I wonder who from the Duke's household will come. I suspect the Prefect will have to settle the case within the next few days. Once that happens, Wei Yanzhi will be escorted to the capital. After Wei Qizhi is sent away and the capital's envoys depart, Marquis Anyang Manor will finally have some peace. This past half-month has been truly exhausting."

At this point, Yue Ning turned her head and said, "My eldest brother is going to the Northwest Frontier."

Qin Guan was momentarily taken aback. "To the Northwest?"

Yue Ning nodded. "Father said the Yue family army might be redeployed north after the New Year. In that case, Second Brother will go with them. As for Eldest Brother, it's best for him to gain experience in the Northwest Frontier. The Northwest is under Prince Rui's command, so Father is very reassured."

"What about His Highness Yan Chi?" Qin Guan asked reflexively.

Yue Ning shook her head. "His Highness Yan Chi likely won't return to the Northwest Frontier Army anytime soon."

Qin Guan narrowed her eyes. "His Highness has served in the Northwest Frontier Army for twelve years. Why wouldn't he go back?"

Not only had Yan Chi served in the Northwest Frontier Army for twelve years, but his achievements had also made him the de facto leader of the army's new generation. Yet, at this very moment, he had returned to the capital. If he stayed away for several more years and the Northwest Frontier Army underwent a reshuffle of commanders, his authority within the army would likely diminish significantly...

"This matter... is rather peculiar."

Qin Guan already found it strange, and Yue Ning's words immediately sharpened her focus.

Yue Ning continued, "Though I don't understand military affairs deeply, given that Marquis Anyang Manor has commanded troops for generations, I naturally know a bit more. This... probably has something to do with the Northwest Frontier Army's authority."

Yue Ning spoke lightly, but Qin Guan's heart sank. Did this mean the worst possibility she had imagined might come true?

Suddenly discussing military and political matters, Yue Ning knew she shouldn't speak too freely, but since it was Qin Guan she was talking to, it wasn't an issue. "The Northwest Frontier Army is arguably the most elite garrison force in the Great Zhou Dynasty, yet its command has always remained in the hands of Prince Rui's household. Currently, it's Prince Rui—but in the future, wouldn't it naturally fall to His Highness Yan Chi? For him to leave the Northwest Frontier Army at this time suggests someone might have schemed to seize power. There's an old saying: 'Merit overshadows the master.' You must understand this."

Qin Guan nodded slightly, but her mind drifted to the knife wound on Yan Chi's back. Such a severe injury could only have been inflicted by someone intent on taking his life. And Qin Guan had long understood that the struggles within the imperial court and royal family were always bloody affairs.From the case of Wei Yanzhi to the power struggle over the Northwest Frontier Army, the conversation had grown somewhat heavy. By the time the carriage stopped in front of the Marquis's residence, both Qin Guan and Yue Ning wore solemn expressions. It wasn't until they alighted and entered the estate that their features brightened with their usual cheerfulness, heading straight for the Grand Princess's courtyard as was their custom. After paying their respects, Qin Guan went directly with Yue Ning toward the East courtyard.

"Young Master Wei is staying in the East courtyard again, in the small house next to the one Wei Yanzhi previously occupied." Yue Ning paused slightly before continuing, "Don't laugh when I tell you this, but ever since you mentioned that Wei Yanzhi had brought Song Rou's head into the residence and hidden it in his room for days, Mother has been unsettled. She insists that the room Wei Yanzhi stayed in must be purified by a Taoist priest before anyone can live there again."

Qin Guan showed no surprise at this. "Madam is absolutely right to do so. Ordinary objects touched by the dead are best avoided, let alone... For her peace of mind, the purification rites could even be extended for a few more days."

As she spoke, Qin Guan blinked mischievously. Yue Ning laughed upon seeing this. "You little imp! Didn't you always claim not to believe in superstitions? Why are you praising my mother's decision now?"

A glint of sly intelligence appeared in Qin Guan's eyes. "Every time I visit, Madam always treats me to delicious food. Isn't it only right that I return the favor?"

"You cunning Qin Guan! You're clearly just worried Mother might stop giving you treats..."

Yue Ning laughed and scolded lightly before leading Qin Guan into the East Courtyard. Sure enough, Wei Qizhi's residence was right next to where Wei Yanzhi had previously stayed. Perhaps their conversation had been too loud, for before they even reached the main gate, Wu Shu came rushing out from inside.

Seeing Qin Guan, Wu Shu's eyes reddened as he knelt on the ground. "Bodhisattva! This lowly one pays respects to the Bodhisattva! This lowly one thanks the Bodhisattva for saving my young master! In my next life, I shall repay you by knotting grass and holding a ring in my mouth!"

Wu Shu's outburst startled Qin Guan, who cast a questioning glance at Yue Ning. Yue Ning coughed lightly and whispered, "Second Brother has already told Wei Qizhi everything about how you conducted the corpse examination and pieced together the bones. Not just this servant—even Wei Qizhi now regards you as his savior. This is just the first hurdle. Once we go inside, Wei Qizhi will surely shower you with gratitude."

Qin Guan found this both amusing and exasperating. She stepped forward and said, "Please rise. I’ve come to examine your young master."

Wu Shu wiped his tears and scrambled to his feet. "Yes, yes! We’ve been waiting for the Bodhisattva for so long. Please, come in quickly! My young master is also waiting for you."

Qin Guan sighed. "My surname is Qin, and I’m the ninth in my family. I’m not a Bodhisattva."

Wu Shu froze for a moment before nodding hastily. "Yes, Ninth Miss… This lowly one knows you are Ninth Miss. I heard the Prefect address you as such that day. But in my heart, you are a Bodhisattva—you and the Junzhu both!"

Yue Ning frowned. "Are you incapable of listening? Enough with this 'Bodhisattva' nonsense. If you can’t speak properly, then don’t appear before us!"

While Qin Guan had been patient, Yue Ning was not. Seeing her anger flare, Wu Shu immediately lowered his head. "Yes, yes! Junzhu, please calm your anger. This lowly one dares not repeat it. I will change how I address her!"

Yue Ning lifted her chin and led Qin Guan inside.

Inside the room, Yue Qing was speaking. "Her medical skills surpass even those of Divine Doctor Huang from Jinzhou City. You may not know this, but Divine Doctor Huang was once an imperial physician from the palace. Not only is he already in his sixties, but he has also treated no fewer than eight thousand patients in his time. Yet even he had to concede defeat before her..."

Qin Guan’s brow twitched as she stepped inside, while Yue Ning, who had entered first, raised an eyebrow and couldn’t help but call out, "Second Brother—"

Before she could finish, Yue Ning’s gaze suddenly fixed on someone else in the room.

Apart from Yue Qing, there was another person standing there—Huo Ning, whom they hadn’t seen in days. Yue Ning looked at Huo Ning in surprise, only to find him standing solemnly, his chin still slightly raised with his usual arrogance. Yue Qing turned and, noticing Yue Ning’s gaze, explained with a smile, "Young Master Huo has come to visit Brother Wei. Governor Huo is concerned for Brother Wei’s well-being and sent Young Master Huo to check on him."

Yue Ning immediately understood—Governor Huo had accidentally injured Wei Qizhi and must have sent Huo Ning out of guilt. She nodded at Huo Ning, who stiffly cupped his hands in return.

Yue Ning strode further inside, revealing Qin Guan behind her. Thus, Qin Guan also saw Huo Ning.

She had assumed only Yue Qing and Wei Qizhi were present and hadn’t expected Huo Ning to be there as well. Though inwardly as surprised as Yue Ning, she showed no sign of it. Upon entering, she simply curtsied slightly in greeting to those in the room.When Yue Ning entered, Yue Qing showed little reaction, but the moment Qin Guan appeared, Yue Qing immediately stepped forward. "Ninth Miss, you're here! Sorry to trouble you again, but right now, only your medical skills can save Brother Wei!"

Qin Guan curved her lips slightly. "No trouble at all. Healing the sick is my duty."

Her reply was simple, but her gaze swept toward Wei Qizhi, who lay fully dressed on the long couch.

Compared to the bloodied Wei Qizhi bound to the wooden frame that day, today he was at least properly groomed and dressed in fresh clothes. His dark hair was tied back neatly, revealing his face clearly—his features were handsome, his jawline sharp. Though he bore some resemblance to Wei Yanzhi, his eyes held a brighter spark. Wei Yanzhi, despite his meticulousness, often seemed overly cautious and restrained, whereas Wei Qizhi’s gaze was bold and dazzling. Even as he studied Qin Guan, his directness carried an air of frankness that didn’t provoke dislike.

Once again, Qin Guan marveled at the importance of noble lineage. As the legitimate heir, Wei Qizhi had been the most doted upon since childhood. Growing up in such an environment, he feared nothing—his demeanor was grand and unrestrained.

"Wei Qizhi, at your service, Ninth Miss—"

His scrutiny lasted only a moment before he propped himself up on the edge of the couch, attempting to rise. Qin Guan stepped forward. "Young Master Wei, there’s no need for formalities. Your leg injury is severe—it’s best not to move."

Her tone was mild, yet there was an inexplicable authority in her words that demanded obedience.

Wei Qizhi paused, then slowly lay back down.

Seeing this, Yue Qing chuckled. "Brother Wei, truly, no need for courtesy. Ninth Miss is no ordinary person—whatever she says goes. No need for hollow rituals..."

Wei Qizhi’s face still bore traces of bruising, but he grinned at the remark. "In that case, I’ll have to forgo propriety."

Yue Qing waved a hand dismissively. "No such thing as impropriety here." With that, he quickly fetched a nearby stool. "Sit, Ninth Miss, please sit..."

Yue Qing’s eagerness was obvious even to Yue Ning, let alone Huo Ning and Wei Qizhi, who were standing nearby. Wei Qizhi merely smiled without comment, but Huo Ning narrowed his eyes slightly. When Qin Guan entered, she had only glanced at him once, her expression utterly unchanged—far less reaction than Yue Ning had shown upon seeing him. Huo Ning took a deep breath, feeling as though the room had suddenly become so stifling that even breathing was difficult the moment Qin Guan arrived.

He wanted to stride out, but his feet seemed rooted to the spot. Come to think of it, he should have left long ago—hadn’t he lingered precisely because he’d heard Qin Guan was coming to treat the patient?

As Huo Ning watched Qin Guan, a strange sense of bewilderment rose in his chest.

Had he truly treated her so terribly in the past that the heavens were now punishing him?

Now, it was as if he were under a spell—his thoughts constantly circling matters related to her. Had she once been the same way?

At this thought, the stifling weight in his chest lightened slightly.

Huo Ning had just managed to console himself when, in the next moment, he caught sight of Yue Qing’s focused, bright-eyed gaze fixed on Qin Guan. His chest tightened again—not only had the suffocating feeling returned, but it was worse than before!

Had some affection developed between Qin Guan and Yue Qing?!

Qin Guan sat on the stool Yue Qing had brought over. Since she was here to treat Wei Qizhi, she paid no attention to Huo Ning’s stare and simply said, "Young Master Wei, please extend your hand..."Wei Qizhi hurriedly extended his arm. Qin Guan looked and saw the red patches on his arm hadn't faded yet. As her fingertips touched his wrist to check his pulse, she said, "Has no one ever told you before that these occasional red patches are caused by lacquer poison?"

Wei Qizhi clearly knew about this but shook his head with a sigh. "What a pity I didn't meet Ninth Miss earlier. Otherwise, this mystery would have been solved long ago. I'd never heard that lacquer could be poisonous before."

"Lacquer only affects a small number of people. Ordinary individuals aren't harmed by it," Qin Guan added.

Wei Qizhi nodded. "As Second Young Master said, Ninth Miss is truly remarkable. I've learned much from you."

Qin Guan showed no maidenly shyness but instead responded generously, "Second Young Master tends to exaggerate. Young Master Wei shouldn't take his words too seriously... Now, the other hand, please."

Wei Qizhi blinked and glanced at Yue Qing with a hint of sympathy in his eyes.

After checking his pulse, Qin Guan lifted the thin blanket covering Wei Qizhi's legs. Beneath it, his left trouser leg was rolled up to the knee, with cotton gauze wrapped around his calf. As the blanket was removed, a faint medicinal scent wafted out.

"Still using the Golden Jade Healing Ointment?"

Wei Qizhi nodded. "The physician last night said it was the best and didn't prescribe anything new."

Qin Guan nodded slightly and leaned forward to unwrap the gauze. "The Golden Jade Healing Ointment was indeed the best choice before, but it's no longer suitable now. Young Master Wei's leg seems to have been injured a second time."

At this, Wei Qizhi's expression turned pained. "Indeed. The government prison isn't exactly a pleasant place to visit."

His tone carried a jesting note, making Qin Guan glance up at him. In just these few exchanges, the stark difference between Wei Qizhi and Wei Yanzhi had become apparent. Wei Yanzhi was always impeccably courteous and proper, but he would never joke around like Wei Qizhi. It was as if Wei Yanzhi carried an invisible barrier—no matter how close he stood to others, there was always a distance. Wei Qizhi, on the other hand, occasionally made lighthearted remarks, yet strangely, they never felt abrupt. Instead, they fostered a sense of familiarity. Recalling the rumors of Wei Qizhi's poor reputation in the Wei household and his disdain for the Duke's residence, Qin Guan, knowing he wasn't a slick or worldly man, tentatively regarded him as an honest and free-spirited person.

"Taking the blame for others isn't exactly fun either," Qin Guan remarked as she peeled off the last layer of gauze.

Wei Qizhi sucked in a sharp breath through his teeth, his brows knitting together in pain. Yet, he still managed a wry smile. "When I agreed, I didn't expect to break a leg. By the time I realized it, the damage was already done. Since it was broken anyway, explaining the truth would only make me seem unreliable in front of the young lady. Either way, it wouldn't end well, so I had no choice but to tough it out."

Yue Ning couldn't help but chuckle. "Breaking a leg and then nearly dying in prison—Young Master Wei's spirits remain high. You can still joke about it."

Wei Qizhi's brows were so tightly furrowed they seemed on the verge of knotting, yet he maintained a casual tone. "You flatter me, Princess. Truth be told, the past two months have been utterly miserable. If I told others, they'd probably think it was some storyteller's tall tale meant for amusement. Since things are already this bitter, I might as well not make it worse for myself."Qin Guan's hands paused in their movement as she looked up. The face before her, bearing a slight resemblance to Wei Yanzhi, was twisted in obvious pain, yet the words spoken carried a tone of forced amusement. Hearing him speak of such a harrowing and humiliating experience, Qin Guan found herself no longer sympathetic. Instead, she thought his thick skin and shamelessness made the ordeal seem like mere training for him.

The strong grow stronger, while the weak often justify their weakness.

During her journey with Yue Ning, Qin Guan had initially felt a twinge of shared sorrow for Wei Yanzhi's past suffering. But seeing Wei Qizhi now, that trace of sympathy in her heart vanished instantly.

Had Wei Yanzhi endured the same experience, he would surely have thought: Song Rou framed him because he was a bastard son, and losing a leg was the heavens' great injustice against him. As for the near-death ordeal in prison, it would have been the ultimate humiliation in his life. But what if such suffering had befallen Wei Qizhi instead?

Watching Wei Qizhi grimace in pain yet still manage to jest about himself, Qin Guan hesitated. The murder of one's mother was no trivial matter, and she didn’t wish to dismiss Wei Yanzhi’s grievances over it.

"The fracture has reopened, and Young Master Wei’s injury has developed internal bruising. The Golden Jade Bone-Setting Ointment alone won’t reduce the swelling—the pooled blood must be drained. Otherwise, even if the bone heals, your leg will remain deformed."

Qin Guan delivered her diagnosis swiftly. Wei Qizhi blinked in stunned silence before asking, "Drain the blood? How?"

Qin Guan gestured to his leg. "Here. We make an incision and let it out..."

She saw Wei Qizhi’s lips tremble distinctly. A moment later, he asked weakly, "And... if we don’t?"

"Young Master Wei will become lame, a cripple who can never ride a horse again, let alone wield a sword."

Her tone was icy and stern. Wei Qizhi’s lips trembled again. "Ninth Miss will be the one cutting? Do you have anesthetic?"

Qin Guan nodded. "I will. And yes."

Wei Qizhi leaned back. "Good. How strong is Ninth Miss’s anesthetic?"

Qin Guan raised a brow, unsure what he meant. He continued, "Preferably strong enough to knock me out for two or three days—or better yet, let me wake up with my leg already healed..."

Her brows climbed higher. Yue Ning and Yue Qing couldn’t help but burst into laughter.

Yue Ning snorted. "And here I thought Young Master Wei was some fearless hero. Who knew he’d be scared of pain?"

Wei Qizhi forced a grin. "It’s not the pain I fear, it’s—"

"It’s blood. Our young master faints at the sight of it!"

Before he could finish, another voice chimed in from the doorway. Qin Guan and the others turned to see Wu Shu standing there with utmost seriousness. Sensing their skepticism, Wu Shu hastily raised a hand as if taking an oath. "Every word I speak is true! I wouldn’t dare lie to you two... young ladies!"

Yue Ning looked torn between exasperation and amusement, while Qin Guan could only smile wryly. They exchanged a glance, both realizing the same thing.

If only they’d known Wei Qizhi fainted at the sight of blood! Had they known earlier, his suspicion would have been dismissed outright!

The killer’s methods in murdering Song Rou were brutal. Had Wei Qizhi been the culprit, he would’ve passed out after the first strike!

"Don’t—don’t listen to his nonsense! What kind of man faints at blood—?!"Wei Qizhi had barely propped himself halfway up when he glared fiercely at Wu Shu. Hearing this, Qin Guan turned her head and said, "Oh? Does Young Master Wei no longer need anesthesia?"

With a thud, Wei Qizhi fell back down. He gave a light cough, his voice suddenly weakening. "Ninth Miss is most benevolent. Please be sure to choose the strongest anesthesia..."