“Bribing insiders?! Concealing evidence?!” Amidst the commotion, Yan Huai was the first to frown and question.

Yan Che nodded, “Indeed. The bribed yamen runner is still detained in the prefecture jail. He has confessed everything. Prefect Zheng led his men to find several pieces of hidden evidence in his quarters. That’s how the case was solved.”

Yan Huai’s eyes darkened. In front of all the court officials, Yan Che wouldn’t dare speak falsely. That such an incident could occur in the Lin’an Prefecture, right under the Emperor’s feet – the intentions of those behind it were glaringly obvious.

With a grave expression, Yan Huai said, “Rise first. Since the case has been solved, you and Prefect Zheng have done well.” He turned to Yuan Qing and continued, “Let Zheng Baishi enter. Now that the case is solved, there’s no rush to make the report. Tonight is the New Year’s Eve banquet – let’s feast first.”

Yan Che returned to his seat. Yan Huai gestured for him to sit, then added, “Bribing yamen runners clearly shows an attempt to prevent the truth from coming out. Since that runner has been caught, have him thoroughly interrogated for Me to see who would dare be so brazen.”

Yan Che bowed with clasped hands, “Yes, Your Son will not disappoint Father Emperor’s expectations.”

As they spoke, a figure appeared at the hall entrance – it was Zheng Baishi. Wearing a wine-colored official’s robe, the exhaustion was evident on his face, clearly showing he had barely rested these past days. Following the Emperor’s command, Zheng Baishi strode quickly into the hall clutching a scroll of documents, walking straight to the throne to perform a grand salute.

“This humble servant greets Your Majesty, Her Majesty the Empress, and His Highness the Crown Prince.”

Yan Huai’s lips curved slightly, “Rise, Minister Zheng. Today is New Year’s Eve, you have worked hard.”

Zheng Baishi stood up, “This servant dares not speak of hardship. The case has dragged on for too long. Without a resolution, Your Majesty would be unsettled, and both the Crown Prince and I would feel remorseful. Now that it’s solved before the New Year, we can finally give the victims’ families closure.” He raised the documents above his head, “Your Majesty, all the investigation details and witness testimonies are here.”

Yan Huai nodded, gesturing for Yuan Qing to receive them. Yuan Qing descended the steps to take the documents. Yan Huai then said, “We’ll discuss the specifics later. Tonight is the New Year’s Eve feast. Now that you’ve solved the case, relax and enjoy the banquet. We must still celebrate the New Year properly.”

He glanced at Yuan Qing again, “Bring wine—”

Yuan Qing immediately responded, personally descending the steps to guide Zheng Baishi to his seat, then ordered someone to bring a special pot of wine just for him. After taking his seat, Zheng Baishi first raised a cup to toast the Emperor, then exchanged greetings with those below.

From the main seat, Feng Ling Su said, “Congratulations to Your Majesty and the Crown Prince. With this case solved, the people need not live in fear and can enjoy a good New Year—”

The documents Zheng Baishi presented lay beside Yan Huai, who smiled with satisfaction at Feng Ling Su’s words, “Speaking of which, I have received quite a bit of good news regarding criminal cases these past few months of the year.”

At this, Zhao Shuhua asked, “Is Your Majesty referring to that major gold heist case from years ago?”

Yan Huai nodded, “Indeed. That case remained unsolved for over ten years, yet unexpectedly was solved this year.”

Yan Qi, now composed, remarked, “I heard it was solved by Yan Chi and the Governor of Yu Province?”

At the mention of “Yan Chi,” Qin Wan’s eyes instantly brightened. Then they heard Yan Huai continue with a smile, “Indeed it was. Previously, we only knew he was good at warfare, but this time we discovered he’s equally adept at handling criminal cases. He first solved a case in Jin Prefecture, then encountered two more cases in Yuan and Yu Prefectures, with this gold heist being one of them.”

Hearing this, Feng Ling Su smiled, “Young Lord Chi is so capable, Your Majesty has found another person to share your burdens.”

Feng Ling Su’s words greatly pleased Yan Huai, who said, “I would like him to stay at court to help, but having grown up following his father on battlefields, I fear he might not be accustomed to it.”

Feng Ling Su laughed, “How could he not adapt? Speaking of which, Young Lord Chi was raised well by Prince Rui. At such a young age, he’s been able to fight on battlefields for so many years. However, as a mother myself, I always feel sorry for him. Among all the royal children, only he grew up in the Northwest, enduring such hardships. If only his mother were still here… alas…”

As Feng Ling Su finished speaking, Yan Huai’s brows furrowed tightly.

Zhao Shuhua interjected, “For a man to protect the country and fight on battlefields is a great man’s ambition. Yan Chi following in his father’s footsteps is quite fitting.” She continued, “However, now that the northwestern situation is stable, and with Prince Rui there, it’s sufficient. If Yan Chi could help Your Majesty with criminal cases, staying in the capital would be best.”

Just as Zhao Shuhua finished, Yan Zhen blinked and looked at Yan Huai, “Father Emperor, why isn’t Brother Chi here?”

At Princess Zhen’s question, Yan Huai smiled, “He entered the palace this afternoon. After seeing me, he went to Shou Kang Palace to visit your grandmother. Your grandmother hasn’t seen him in many years – one moment she mistakes him for his father, the next for Yan Li, and won’t let him leave.”

Yan Zhen’s smile brightened, “Then after the banquet, I want to see Grandmother too!”

Yan Huai looked at Yan Zhen with deep affection, “Good, keeping your grandmother company on New Year’s Eve is excellent.”

Yan Zhen nodded in agreement. Yan Huai pondered for a moment, then suddenly seemed to remember something, “Speaking of which, I just thought of someone else.”

Zhao Shuhua looked at Yan Huai, “Who has Your Majesty thought of?”

As the Emperor and Empress spoke, the officials and ladies below all fell silent, eating while listening intently. First, they had heard about Yan Chi, causing low murmurs of private conversation, and now hearing Yan Huai’s words, everyone’s eyes filled with curiosity.

Feng Ling Su’s eyes darted about as she said, “Could Your Majesty be thinking of Prince Yi?”

Among the current generation of princes in the Great Zhou Empire, besides Prince Yu of Yu Province and Prince Rui in the northwestern army, there was also Prince Yi, though this Prince Yi had Buddhist inclinations and spent years wandering in pursuit of Buddhist teachings, long since having left the capital.

Feng Ling Su was Yan Huai’s confidante, and indeed she understood him very well. She thought that since Yan Huai had just mentioned Yan Chi and Prince Rui, it would be natural to think of Prince Yi next. She smiled confidently, but unexpectedly, Yan Huai shook his head at her, “Su’er, this time you’ve guessed wrong.”

Then, Yan Huai’s gaze turned toward the ladies’ section, “Is the Ninth Miss of the Qin family here?”

This sudden question caught Qin Wan herself off guard, and it wasn’t until Qin Chaoyu nudged her arm that she reacted.

Qin Wan came to her senses and instinctively stood up.

As she stood, those who didn’t know who the Ninth Miss of the Qin family was all turned to look at her.

Qin Wan frowned slightly, unsure of the Emperor’s intentions. She had been thinking about whether Yan Chi had come, and only learned of his whereabouts from the Fifth Princess’s words earlier, so her thoughts had wandered. She hadn’t expected the Emperor to suddenly ask about her!

“Ninth Miss, His Majesty is addressing you…”

Seeing Qin Wan’s slight bewilderment, Yuan Qing smiled and reminded her from beside Yan Huai.

Qin Wan hurriedly composed herself and walked several steps toward the main seat. As she walked, people on both sides of the screen could see her, and immediately low whispers arose. Some didn’t recognize her, and some vaguely knew her background, but regardless of whether they knew her or not, being personally addressed by the Emperor at the grand banquet was no ordinary matter. At that moment, from the Empress and various consorts above to the officials and their wives and servants below, everyone looked at Qin Wan more carefully than the other, and upon this look, surprise-filled everyone’s eyes.

Since when did the capital have such an otherworldly beauty?!

The nobles in the capital had countless ways of socializing, whether through tea parties, poetry gatherings, or garden tours. Because of this, everyone knew which family’s daughter was good at poetry, which family’s daughter was beautiful, and which family’s daughter liked to gossip…

In this circle, no one didn’t know or recognize each other. Everyone only knew that the Qin family had a Qin Chaoyu, but they hadn’t expected this Ninth Miss Qin’s appearance to be far more outstanding than Qin Chaoyu…

Countless varying gazes fell upon Qin Wan. From the tables to the steps before the main seat, a distance of more than ten steps, Qin Wan walked steadily and gracefully, unafraid not only of so many gazes but also of imperial dignity.

She hadn’t removed her white cloak, which now reflected the brilliant light from the main seat, making her appear as if wrapped in moonlight. Her black hair was partially up, secured with three green jade hairpins. Though facing the most noble person in the world, her back remained straight, neither servile nor arrogant. Looking at her features, people were surprised to find that her features were extraordinarily delicate. If it were just beauty, that would be one thing, but this girl who appeared to be only sixteen or seventeen excelled in having a cultivated bearing, as if carved from jade and as pure as ice and jade.

As she drew closer to the main seat, Qin Wan’s steps showed no sign of nervousness or timidity. Those watching felt her presence was as serene as a secluded orchid, as steady as pine and bamboo, as if even the collapse of Mount Tai wouldn’t change her expression. Her hands were folded before her, her bearing graceful yet dignified. Though her white cloak concealed the splendor of her inner garments, it couldn’t hide the composure emanating from her very being.

Amidst the brilliant light filling the hall, Qin Wan’s steps made her immortal sleeves flutter, her entire bearing radiant as if dancing with windblown snow. In just moments, Yan Qi was stunned, Feng Ling Su and Zhao Shuhua narrowed their eyes, and even Yan Huai showed surprise, while Yan Che gazed at Qin Wan with incredibly complex emotions.

“This commoner Qin Wan greets Your Majesty and Her Majesty the Empress.” Qin Wan knelt in salute, her voice like the striking of jade.

Yan Huai looked at Qin Wan for two beats, then suddenly smiled deeply, “When Yuan Qing returned to the palace at noon, he told Me that the Ninth Miss of the Qin family was extraordinary. I had some doubts, but seeing her now, I know Yuan Qing spoke true.”

He continued with a smile, “Rise, rise. The Grand Princess asked Me to treat you well, I dare not let you kneel for long.”

Qin Wan quickly said, “Thank you, Your Majesty,” and stood up.

Qin Wan stood properly, eyes slightly lowered, expression respectful.

From the main seat, Zhao Shuhua exclaimed in surprise, “Is she the adopted granddaughter the Grand Princess took in at Jin Prefecture?”

Yan Huai laughed, “The Empress is quite slow to react – yes, it’s her.”

Zhao Shuhua also smiled, “No wonder – ordinary people wouldn’t catch the Grand Princess’s eye.”

Hearing this, Yan Huai continued, “She’s not as simple as she appears on the surface. Though her appearance is exceptional, she also possesses miraculous medical skills. She cured the Grand Princess’s chronic illness, and is known as… the Little Medical Immortal of Jin Prefecture…”

Zhao Shuhua’s eyes brightened again, and with Yan Huai’s words, the gazes throughout the hall grew even more intense.

Feng Ling Su remarked with surprise, “Medical skills? This Ninth… Ninth Miss looks so young, how could she know medicine? And miraculous medicine at that? As far as I know, even the youngest Imperial Physician is thirty years old?”

In the medical profession, years of study were crucial. Qin Wan was so young, her time studying medicine must be limited – how could she compare with those old doctors who had practiced for many years? How could she have cured the Grand Princess?

“Su’er, now you’re being narrow-minded. The Grand Princess wrote that this girl has exceptional talent. Not only did she save her life with medical skills, but she also helped with many other matters. This girl, even I dare not underestimate her.”

Yan Huai’s repeated use of “Su’er” particularly showed his closeness to Feng Ling Su, and his words were deeply meaningful. Even Qin Wan wasn’t sure exactly what help Yan Huai was referring to – was it about the cases?

Feng Ling Su covered her smile and said, “Your Majesty speaks true. This servant has limited knowledge and must have underestimated Ninth Miss.”

After Yan Huai said he dared not underestimate Qin Wan, who else would dare openly question her? However, while no one could say anything about Qin Wan’s appearance, regarding her medical skills… since they hadn’t seen it firsthand, people still harbored doubts. Moreover, the Grand Princess was elderly – she might have exaggerated this Ninth Miss’s abilities out of fondness.

But Yan Huai looked at Qin Wan and asked, “Child, how was the Grand Princess’s health when you left?”

Qin Wan quickly replied, “Grandmother’s health had largely recovered. This commoner also left half a year’s worth of tonics. If properly taken, Grandmother’s health should be much improved by now.”

When Qin Wan called her “Grandmother,” people seemed to truly accept the fact that the Grand Princess had taken her as an adopted granddaughter. Though some felt the Grand Princess’s influence had waned after leaving the capital for many years, most of the capital’s nobility knew the Grand Princess’s temperament from years past and also knew how much the current Emperor cared for this aunt. Thus, they dared not show any disrespect.

Yan Huai nodded, “Good. You’ve cured the Grand Princess – that’s a great achievement. Tonight is New Year’s Eve – tell Me, what do you want? Whatever I can grant, I won’t be stingy.”

Hearing these words, Qin Wan’s heart suddenly stirred. What she wanted, he wouldn’t be stingy.

What she wanted had always been only one thing…

Pressing her lips slightly, Qin Wan lowered her eyes even more, “This commoner initially helped Grandmother as it was a simple matter. Later, being fortunate enough to form a bond with Grandmother, treating her illness became this commoner’s duty and blessing. This commoner wants for nothing.”

Yan Huai’s smile deepened, “Truly nothing?”

Qin Wan nodded without hesitation, “Truly nothing.”

Yan Huai laughed heartily, “Look at this – rarely do I take the initiative to reward someone, yet this girl doesn’t want anything.”

Feng Ling Su quickly said, “Ninth Miss shows filial piety toward the Grand Princess.”

Yan Huai nodded, “My aunt already has the blessing of children and grandchildren gathered around her, and now she has gained an adopted granddaughter. Just from her letters, I can tell how happy she is.” He paused slightly, “Child, since I’ve spoken these words, I can’t take them back. If you haven’t thought of anything now, we’ll leave it for later. When you think of something, you can come to Me anytime, and I’ll fulfill it then.”

Qin Wan was somewhat surprised, glancing at Yan Huai. While small imperial rewards weren’t rare, Yan Huai’s current offer was extremely unusual. If he merely wanted to fulfill his duty, he could have simply chosen a few small items as rewards. There was no need to make such a promise of future fulfillment in front of so many court officials and people. What if she wanted something else?

Yan Huai looked at her with gentle eyes, seemingly noting Qin Wan’s surprise and hesitation. In his eyes, her hesitation appeared to be uncertainty about how to handle such sudden imperial favor.

Yan Huai sighed inwardly. Knowing Qin Wan’s background, plus the Grand Princess’s entreaty, he felt some pity for her. Though Qin Wan appeared composed and extraordinary on the surface, she wasn’t raised like a typical noble lady after all. When faced with his reward, she wasn’t quick-witted enough and momentarily forgot how to respond.

“Now that you’ve returned to the capital, you should come to the palace to play from time to time. Little Five is about your age, you two should get along well. When you write to Jin Prefecture later, you must tell my aunt that I haven’t treated you poorly.”

Yan Huai spoke half-jokingly, his tone like that of a kindly elder.

Qin Wan quickly responded, “Yes, this commoner will certainly obey Your Majesty’s command.”

Seeing that Qin Wan’s speech was cautious, unlike other noble ladies who deliberately tried to please, Yan Huai grew even more fond of her. Meanwhile, Yan Zhen looked at Qin Wan curiously, “You know medicine? Are you really that skilled?”

Qin Wan turned slightly to look at Yan Zhen, “Your Highness, this commoner’s medical skills are not remarkable, only able to treat common ailments.”

Yan Zhen’s almond eyes looked at Qin Wan with both curiosity and fondness. After a while, she smiled and said, “I don’t know if your medical skills are good or not, I only know you’re truly beautiful. Being so beautiful, why study medicine?”

Yan Zhen was only thirteen or fourteen years old, and having been pampered since childhood, her personality was particularly lively. At her innocent remark, even Qin Wan couldn’t help but smile. Yan Huai laughed even more, “You little sprite, what kind of logic is that? Is this another excuse you’ve thought up to avoid studying?”

Yan Zhen responded quickly, “Oh? Father Emperor, are you saying I’m beautiful?”

Yan Huai said adoringly, “You’re My precious pearl, naturally you’re the most beautiful.”

Yan Zhen immediately smiled happily. Yan Huai chuckled helplessly, then turned to look at Qin Wan, “Alright, today is the New Year’s feast. Another day I’ll summon you to the palace to tell Me about my aunt and the others in Jin Prefecture. You may return to your seat now.”

Qin Wan felt slightly relieved, curtsied, and withdrew.

Though Qin Wan’s return to her table blocked the officials’ view, she couldn’t escape the gazes from the main seat. When she sat back down, both Yan Che and Yan Qi’s eyes were still on her.

Earlier when Qin Wan stood before them, it wouldn’t have been appropriate for these princes to show too much attention, but now that she had returned to her seat, they couldn’t take their eyes off her. Not just these two, but the other two princes as well.

Yan Huai naturally noticed his sons’ behavior but pretended not to notice, raising his cup to invite the officials to drink together.

Meanwhile, Feng Chen Bi looked Qin Wan up and down for a moment, “Ninth Miss knows medicine? So you’re the one they said was adopted by the Grand Princess in Jin Prefecture…”

She tilted her head thoughtfully and asked, “Where did Ninth Miss learn medicine?”

Qin Wan replied with an unchanged expression, “I learned from my father.”

Feng Chen Bi blinked, “From Second Master Qin? But Second Master Qin already—”

She broke off, realizing she had said something inappropriate, and quickly stopped. Madam Hu and Qin Chaoyu’s expressions darkened, while Qin Wan slightly furrowed her brows, casting a cold glance at Feng Chen Bi. At this moment, Lady Gu, Duke Wei’s wife, interjected, “Why is Miss Feng so curious about these matters? Could there be any falsehood about being adopted as the Grand Princess’s granddaughter?”

She smiled warmly at Qin Wan, showing genuine fondness.

Madam Yu observed this and asked, “Lady Peng knew about this earlier?”

Lady Gu’s lips curved slightly as she spoke candidly, “My husband fought alongside the Marquis of An Yang in his early years. When this news reached the capital, we paid attention to it. Indeed, we knew about it early on. We wondered when we might meet this Ninth Miss, and unexpectedly, we’ve met her so soon.”

Peng Hua Jing asked, “Ninth Miss is skilled in medicine at such a young age – what’s your specialty?”

Ordinary doctors usually had their specialties, but when Qin Wan heard this question, she couldn’t specify her expertise. She hadn’t practiced medicine for long, only studying hard whatever cases she encountered. The title of “Divine Doctor” was truly undeserved in her case.

“I don’t know what I specialize in, I can just treat common ailments that I encounter.”

Feng Chen Bi pressed, “Being called the Little Medical Immortal, you must be exceptional at something.”

Qin Wan looked at Feng Chen Bi, “If I must name one thing, then it would be acupuncture.”

Qin Wan’s tone grew slightly cold as she looked Feng Chen Bi up and down, “For someone like Miss Feng with blood deficiency and internal cold, one acupuncture session every half month would bring improvement.”

As Feng Chen Bi met Qin Wan’s clear eyes, she didn’t notice anything special at first, but when Qin Wan spoke, Feng Chen Bi felt as if her eyes contained a piercing coldness. After she finished speaking, Feng Chen Bi almost felt as if the needle had pierced her body. Moreover, Qin Wan had accurately diagnosed her condition at a glance, which made her quite frustrated – Qin Wan had real skill!

“So that’s how it is. It seems I’ve underestimated Ninth Miss as well!”

Hearing these words, Qin Wan increasingly felt that everyone in Duke Zhong’s family was similar, with Feng Chen Bi being a younger version of Feng Ling Su.

Madam Yu noticed that Feng Chen Bi had provoked Qin Wan’s temper and grabbed her daughter’s hand under the table, then asked, “Earlier, Ninth Miss mentioned that your first time treating the Grand Princess was by chance?”

Compared to Feng Chen Bi, Madam Yu was much more subtle. Qin Wan nodded, “That’s correct.”

Madam Yu smiled, “Oh? What were the circumstances?”

Qin Wan hadn’t wanted to elaborate, but since Madam Yu asked directly, she replied, “I encountered the Grand Princess having an attack by the roadside while I was out. So I helped her, not knowing her identity at the time.”

Madam Yu feigned surprise, “My, what a fortunate coincidence…”

Even Qin Chaoyu and Madam Hu didn’t know these details, and upon hearing this, they too thought it remarkably coincidental. Meanwhile, Feng Chen Bi whispered lowly in Madam Yu’s ear, “Who knows what tricks were played – how could there be such a coincidence?”

Madam Yu maintained her smile but whispered back to Feng Chen Bi, “Keep your composure.”

Feng Chen Bi frowned, wanting to say more, but was pulled back by Madam Yu again. Seeing many people at the table, she had to swallow her words. In her view, the Grand Princess had left the capital for ten years, and young ladies their age, around fifteen or sixteen, barely had any impression of her. Naturally, they didn’t revere her as a true royal princess, and if the Grand Princess’s status meant little to her, what significance did her adopted granddaughter Qin Wan hold?

With Feng Chen Bi quiet, Qin Wan no longer needed to deal with her, but just as she was about to settle down, Qin Chaoyu asked, “Earlier when His Majesty asked what you wanted, why didn’t you speak up?”

Hearing this, Qin Wan could only sigh. It wasn’t that she had nothing she wanted – she just couldn’t speak of what she desired.

“I simply couldn’t think of anything at the moment.”

Qin Chaoyu glanced toward the main seat and indeed, Yan Che seemed to be looking this way again.

Qin Chaoyu unconsciously gripped her sleeve. Yan Che should have known she was here from the moment he appeared, after all, their table was quite close to the front. But initially, he hadn’t spared a glance in this direction. However, since Qin Wan’s return from the imperial presence, he had frequently looked this way. Comparing these behaviors, it was obvious whose attention Yan Che sought.

Qin Chaoyu pressed her lips together, using all her strength to control herself from revealing her thoughts in front of Feng Chen Bi.

Indeed, Yan Che’s gaze was fixed on Qin Wan. He was quite surprised that among the noble families, there could be such a lady as Qin Wan. She was pure as ice and jade, proper and elegant, appearing at first glance to be an exceptionally outstanding noble lady. But looking carefully at her demeanor and gaze, her eyes were so clear they seemed untouched by worldly matters. When asked about rewards, she wanted nothing and didn’t even speak any flattering words. This “artlessness” was particularly precious among the competing noble ladies.

The more Yan Che thought about it, the more regretful he felt. Yuan Qing had been right – she was truly extraordinary.

And he hadn’t known that this Ninth Miss was of such beauty. What had Zhao Jing said when he came to the palace last time?

He seemed to have only mentioned that the Ninth Miss of the Qin family knew medicine…

If he had spoken more directly then, Yan Che would likely have sought to meet this Ninth Miss earlier.

Yan Che glanced again at the Qin family’s table. Due to Qin Chaoyu’s obstruction, he could only see Qin Wan’s profile. His eyes narrowed slightly, and at that moment, another image unexpectedly floated into his mind.

Sitting in the position above Yan Qi, Yan Che’s attention toward Qin Wan didn’t escape Yan Qi’s notice. After discovering Yan Che’s gaze repeatedly turning to the Qin family’s table, a meaningful look appeared in Yan Qi’s eyes. No man was immune to beautiful faces, but what made this Ninth Miss of the Qin family more precious was that her appeal went beyond mere beauty. The Crown Prince had originally shown interest in Qin Chaoyu, but would he now change his target? If so… Yan Qi’s lips curved upward. Should he make this drama even more interesting?

While the Crown Prince and Prince Cheng each had their thoughts, Zhao Shuhua and Feng Ling Su had their plans. Seeing Zhao Shuhua summon a palace maid and give some quiet instructions, Feng Ling Su also turned to call her confidante, whispering a few words. Almost simultaneously, the maids of both Zhao Shuhua and Feng Ling Su left the hall. Feng Ling Su turned around to meet Zhao Shuhua’s smiling eyes.

Feng Ling Su hurriedly said, “Sister must find this amusing. Though the hall is lively, I felt a bit cold and sent Bao Die to fetch my cloak.” She then asked curiously, “Did Sister also send Yun Yan for a cloak?”

Zhao Shuhua curved her lips, “Of course not. I noticed His Majesty’s fondness for this Ninth Miss Qin, and since she didn’t ask for any rewards earlier, I ordered someone to bring some of my jewelry to show my goodwill.”

At these words, Feng Ling Su’s smile instantly froze. Nearby, Yan Huai heard this and remarked, “The Empress’s thoughtfulness is most appropriate.”

Zhao Shuhua continued, “Though I haven’t seen the Grand Princess’s letter, just hearing Your Majesty’s words makes clear how much the Grand Princess cares for this granddaughter. Naturally, I should fulfill my duty to look after her.”

Hearing this, Yan Huai nodded again, “Indeed worthy of being My Empress. I know you already liked Qin Shu’s daughter, and now with another addition, you can look after them both in the future.”

Zhao Shuhua naturally agreed while Feng Ling Su forced a laugh for two beats, her eyes growing cold.

Just then, suddenly a eunuch’s low call came from outside the hall: “The Crown Prince of Prince Rui arrives—”

As the words fell, the hall instantly grew quiet. Yan Huai laughed heartily, “Finally! The Empress Dowager has released him at last!”

As his words faded, a figure in dark black entered the hall.

Chong Ming Hall was bright with lanterns and warm with the spirit of wine, though those seated inside could still hear the howling wind and snow outside. Yan Chi strode in, snow still visible on his black cloak. He carried winter’s chill as he walked purposefully toward the main seat. Reaching the imperial presence, he swept his robe and bowed, kneeling on one knee in a military salute. His movements were crisp and his bearing graceful. From her position, Qin Wan could see him clearly, and at that moment, the wine’s warmth brought a slight flush to her face.

“This humble servant greets Your Majesty and Her Majesty the Empress. I apologize for my late arrival and beg Your Majesty’s forgiveness!”

Both Yan Huai and Zhao Shuhua’s smiles deepened. Yan Huai said, “Rise quickly, rise quickly. How was the Empress Dowager?”

Yan Chi’s phoenix eyes gleamed brilliantly, their depth enhanced by the bright lamplight. His lips curved as he replied, “When this servant left, the Imperial Grandmother was preparing to retire. She should be asleep by now.”

Yan Chi’s voice was rich and pleasant. Combined with his tall stature, wearing an elegant black robe embroidered with golden coiling dragons beneath a dark fox fur cloak, he cut an imposing figure before the throne. His peerless handsomeness gave him a towering presence that momentarily overshadowed not only Yan Che and Yan Qi but even Yan Huai in his ceremonial robes.

Both Yan Huai and Yan Che ranked first in appearance, followed by the natural superiority that came from long-held high positions, along with their power-symbolizing ceremonial robes and dragon robes naturally drawing most gazes.

However, Yan Chi was different from everyone else in the hall. He had noble blood and unmatched good looks, but these qualities that others found unattainable were not his only weapons. More importantly, his battle-hardened bearing forged in warfare and his heroic spirit that could command thousands of troops without fear of danger set him apart from everyone in the hall!

His sharp edge carried the scent of blood, tempered by the frost and fire of the northwestern plains. He could slaughter thousands of enemy troops and deter the Western Rong from daring to cross the border. Here, all this glory and wealth built on jade and gold, these lives steeped in wine and pleasure, seemed utterly insignificant before his battle-tested bearing. No one could compare to him, nor dared to.

Qin Wan watched intently. Glancing around, she saw both Feng Chen Bi and Peng Hua Jing watching just as attentively. She first felt pride, but then, thinking of something unknown, her eyes darkened and an inexplicable bitterness rose in her heart.

“Good, good, good. The old lady hasn’t been well lately, but seeing you today has lifted her spirits. She should be able to sleep earlier. Since you’re late, first punish yourself with three cups. I know your father doesn’t allow drinking in the army, but now that you’re back in the capital, you can indulge a bit.” He raised his hand, “Grant him a seat, bring wine—”

Yuan Qing quickly gave orders, and soon several young eunuchs brought a new seat below the Eighth Prince’s position. Everyone understood: though Yan Chi was also of royal blood, he wasn’t a prince, yet clearly, Yan Huai was giving him supreme honor. Once the seat was arranged, Yan Huai nodded slightly, “Be seated.”

Yan Chi didn’t decline, merely cupped his hands in salute before taking his seat at the main position.

As he sat down, his gaze passed over the hall’s brilliant lights and landed unerringly on Qin Wan.

Qin Wan’s heart warmed as she saw Yan Chi’s lips curve slightly toward her before he looked elsewhere.

Though it lasted only a moment, Qin Wan’s heart felt as if it had been steeped in fine wine, fragrant and mellow.

Yan Chi raised his cup, first toasting those at the main seats. Just as he set down his cup, Zhao Shuhua said, “We were just talking about you, about your great achievements in the south this time.”

Yan Chi made an “oh” sound and smiled, “I dare not claim great achievements, merely helping to ease Your Majesty’s burdens.”

Yan Huai’s face showed full approval, “See? These words echo what everyone said earlier.”

Zhao Shuhua curved her lips, “Having achieved such merit this time, have you asked His Majesty for any rewards?”

At these words, Yan Huai’s smile deepened, naturally thinking of how Qin Wan had just declined rewards. Then they heard Yan Chi say, “It was merely my duty, how could I dare ask Your Majesty for rewards?”

Yan Huai laughed heartily, “What’s happening today? Why can’t I give out My rewards?”

Yan Chi looked puzzled, seemingly not understanding Yan Huai’s meaning. Zhao Shuhua explained, “You don’t know, but earlier when the Ninth Miss of the Qin family came forward, His Majesty asked if she wanted any rewards, and she also said it was her duty and dared not accept rewards.”

Yan Chi’s expression remained unchanged, “Oh? It seems Ninth Miss and I are kindred spirits.”

Yan Chi spoke rather quickly, making Qin Wan’s heart skip a beat. He had referenced her in front of so many people…

Just as she was thinking this, she heard Yan Huai ask, “Speaking of which, you two must be well acquainted?”

Yan Chi’s lips curved upward, “Indeed we are. The Grand Princess was concerned and specially instructed me to take good care of her.”

Yan Huai glanced toward Qin Wan, “It seems the Grand Princess was truly worried, first instructing you, then sending Me a letter. Well, with you staying in the capital from now on, everything will be fine.”

Yan Chi smiled broadly, “Naturally.” He seemed to completely ignore Yan Huai’s comment about “staying in the capital from now on.”

Since Yan Chi arrived late, Yan Huai had to punish him with wine. Yan Chi naturally drank it, then continued to toast several of his cousins above before stopping. Seeing his complete lack of aversion to alcohol, Yan Huai’s smile deepened, and he began asking about interesting stories from the Northwestern Army.

Yan Chi responded appropriately, improving the atmosphere at the main seats even more. Yan Qi, having met Yan Chi before, had much to discuss with him, though Yan Chi didn’t mention the incident of Yan Qi leading people to the charity house. Yan Qi noticed this, and their back-and-forth was quite harmonious, while in contrast, Yan Che seemed somewhat distracted.

After several rounds of drinks, the New Year’s feast was reaching its peak. Tonight, besides the grand banquet, Yan Huai would lead his officials to climb the Zheng Hua Gate tower to celebrate with the capital’s citizens. Just as Yan Huai was about to instruct Yuan Qing to prepare to end the feast and set out, suddenly, a young eunuch came running urgently through the right side door. In his haste, as soon as he saw Yan Huai, the young eunuch cried out, “Your Majesty, the Empress Dowager is in danger!”