“You managed to save the Empress Dowager?!” Secretary Qin asked in disbelief. Wan Qin nodded in response.

Yan Qin smiled and said, “Not only did Father not believe it, but I too was skeptical when I first received Ninth Sister’s message.”

He continued, “Father, let’s go inside first!”

Secretary Qin finally came to his senses and hurriedly stepped aside, “Quick, quick, come in and we’ll discuss this!”

Wan Qin followed Secretary Qin inside, where the fireplace warmly heated the room. Madam Hu and Yu Qin Chaoyu stared at Wan Qin intently. Madam Hu anxiously asked, “Wan’er, what happened? Tell us quickly!”

Wan Qin curved her lips into a smile and said, “When I arrived at Shoukang Palace, the Empress Dowager was indeed in a precarious state, but we managed to save her. I left a prescription at the palace, and as long as the medicine is administered on schedule, the Empress Dowager will certainly recover without major complications.”

After Wan Qin finished speaking with certainty, Secretary Qin and Madam Hu heaved sighs of relief. Yu Qin Chaoyu also exhaled, “We were worried to death, fearing something might go wrong. We never expected you would save the Empress Dowager.”

Wan Qin understood their concerns well. The Empress Dowager’s life and death were of great importance—if anything went wrong, the Marquis Manor would have faced a dire situation. She said, “I’m sorry for causing Uncle and Aunt to worry. Originally, I had no intention of getting involved, but when Miss Feng pushed me forward, and seeing the Empress Dowager’s critical condition, I decided to help.”

Secretary Qin smiled warmly, “What are you saying? You had no choice at the time, and besides, while we didn’t know if you could save her, you must have been confident in your abilities. After this incident, we know just how capable you are, Wan’er.”

Although Chengbi Feng had pushed Wan Qin forward, if she had directly stated she couldn’t help, the Emperor wouldn’t have truly allowed a young girl to try. But at that time, knowing the Imperial Physicians were helpless and that other physicians hadn’t entered the palace for so long, and considering the Empress Dowager was of similar age to the Grand Princess, Wan Qin ultimately felt compassion and took the risk.

“Today, I truly wasn’t completely confident. If I had failed, it would have implicated Uncle and Aunt.”

Madam Hu, who had harbored some resentment earlier, naturally suppressed those minor thoughts by now. “What are you saying? Since you three sisters came to the capital, you’re like Yu’er to us. We were worried earlier because we didn’t know you could save the Empress Dowager, but now that you have, we all share in your glory. We’re family, everything affects us all.”

Wan Qin smiled and dropped the subject, looking around instead, “Where are Fifth Sister and Sixth Sister?”

Originally, they planned a reunion dinner after Wan Qin’s group returned from the palace banquet. Secretary Qin explained, “When we returned, the New Year’s dinner was already prepared. We were worried you wouldn’t be in the mood to eat, so we accompanied Xiang’er and Shuang’er for dinner to mark the New Year. They don’t know about tonight’s events, and to avoid worrying them, we sent them back already.”

Wan Qin understood and asked no more. Madam Hu hurriedly asked, “Are you hungry? Would you like something to eat?”

Wan Qin shook her head, “I’m not hungry, Aunt, don’t worry.”

Secretary Qin then asked, “Wan’er, after you saved her, what did the Emperor say?”

“The Emperor said that since tonight’s wind is fierce and snow is heavy, he’ll send rewards tomorrow. He also mentioned that depending on the situation tomorrow, I might be summoned to the palace again.” Wan Qin reported truthfully, showing no trace of excitement or pride in her expression.

Secretary Qin noted this internally and felt reassured. Saving the Empress Dowager was such a significant achievement that rewards were certain to follow. Wan Qin wasn’t a palace physician, so this was entirely her accomplishment.

“Good, Uncle understands. Not only did nothing go wrong, but this will benefit both you and our Marquis Manor. Wan’er, you’re truly our family’s lucky star. You’ve been in the capital less than half a month and have already helped us tremendously.”

Wan Qin knew what Secretary Qin meant, “I only did some small things, it doesn’t count as help. As long as I don’t cause trouble for Uncle and Aunt, that’s good enough.”

Madam Hu affectionately held Wan Qin’s hand, “What are you saying? We’re all family, how could you cause trouble?”

Wan Qin smiled, “Thank you, Aunt.”

Secretary Qin then asked, “Did the Emperor send someone to escort you back? We were going to wait for you, but the Empress said you had someone taking care of you and told us not to wait.”

“No, it was His Highness the Crown Prince of the Rui Principality. He happened to be leaving the palace as well, so the Emperor asked him to escort me.”

Secretary Qin’s smile deepened, “He escorted you part of the way when you first arrived, and now this – it’s quite excellent.” Seeing it wasn’t too late, he added, “You must be tired tonight, so there’s no need to stay up for the New Year. Go rest quickly, and tomorrow morning, our whole family will have a proper New Year’s feast together.”

Wan Qin naturally agreed, and Secretary Qin asked Yan Qin to personally escort her back.

As soon as Wan Qin and Yan Qin left, Madam Hu suddenly clapped her hands, “This is wonderful! Wan’er is truly capable. Heaven bless us, heaven bless us! Now that Wan’er has saved the Empress Dowager, the Emperor will surely remember our family’s good deed.”

Secretary Qin nodded slightly, “Yes, Wan’er has made us proud this time!”

Then looking at Yu Qin Chaoyu, he said, “Yu’er, it’s getting late, you should go rest too.”

Though Yu Qin Chaoyu’s worried heart had settled, her emotions remained complex. Seeing Secretary Qin’s gesture, she bid farewell and left. After she departed, Secretary Qin, in high spirits, wrapped his arm around Madam Hu’s waist, “My lady, it’s New Year’s today, let’s retire early as well.”

Madam Hu’s face reddened slightly, naturally following Secretary Qin toward their chambers.

Yu Qin Chaoyu, who had left Renshou Hall, walked very slowly, contemplating tonight’s events regarding Wan Qin. Mo Yi held an umbrella beside her and asked, “What’s wrong, Young Miss? Shouldn’t you be happy that Ninth Young Miss saved the Empress Dowager?”

Yu Qin Chaoyu narrowed her eyes, “Of course this matter deserves celebration, but what if she becomes a hindrance to me in the future?”

Mo Yi was slightly stunned, then understood but didn’t know how to respond.

“Young Miss, what do the Master and Madam think?”

Mo Yi and the others had grown up alongside Yu Qin Chaoyu, and though they were servants, they had received better education than young ladies from ordinary families. They knew what Yu Qin Chaoyu was thinking and naturally planned for her benefit.

Yu Qin Chaoyu sighed at the question, “Father and Mother ultimately think of the Qin family’s interests. If… one day there’s no choice, what can they do…”

Mo Yi hurriedly said, “Tonight is New Year’s Eve, Young Miss shouldn’t think too much. Even if Ninth Young Miss is impressive, the Empress has been quite fond of you in recent years, as has the Crown Prince.”

Yu Qin Chaoyu frowned slightly, “The Crown Prince…”

Her tone was half questioning, half pondering. After a moment, she took a deep breath, “Never mind, never mind. Tonight, let’s not think about these useless matters. She made me a promise – if one day she goes back on her word, I’ll make her understand the consequences.”

Meanwhile, as soon as Wan Qin entered her courtyard, Fuling and Baiying rushed out.

“Young Miss! You’re finally back!”

“Young Miss, why were you delayed so long—”

The two immediately began examining Wan Qin up and down, looking left and right. After confirming she was unharmed, they barely acknowledged Yan Qin with a quick courtesy before pulling Wan Qin toward her chambers.

Yan Qin stood at the courtyard entrance holding an umbrella, watching as Fuling and Baiying anxiously led Wan Qin inside. Faintly, Yan Qin caught the scent of something delicious wafting from within the room.

Even before New Year’s Eve, the manor’s kitchen would reward servants with many delicacies, and naturally, whatever Wan Qin’s household staff requested would be provided. Yan Qin knew Fuling and the others were waiting to celebrate the New Year with Wan Qin. Smelling the delicious aroma, he felt somewhat hungry, but since the occupants showed no intention of inviting him inside, he could only smile wryly and leave.

“Young Miss, we’ve been waiting for you for so long! The Master and Madam returned early, but there was no sign of you. When we asked Nurse Yu, she only said you were detained at the palace for some matter, but wouldn’t say what it was. We were worried sick! Young Miss, are you hungry?”

Upon entering the room, Fuling spoke without pause while removing Wan Qin’s cloak and pressing a cup of hot tea into her hands. Meanwhile, several young maids who had been waiting in the room all curtsied to Wan Qin.

Wan Qin finally said, “I stayed at the palace to treat the Empress Dowager’s illness. It was nothing serious.” She then sniffed the air, “I wasn’t hungry before, but smelling such delicious aromas has made me hungry.”

Fuling’s eyes brightened, “You treated the Empress Dowager? Young Miss, please come to the Warm Chamber, you can eat while you tell us about it.”

Wan Qin nodded, and Fuling led her to the Warm Chamber. There, the couch had been cleared, and on the square table sat a red copper charcoal hot pot. The central furnace glowed with red charcoal, while the pot bubbled with milky-white broth sending up steam. Around the pot were more than ten plates of delicious dishes, and to the side, a pot of wine was being kept warm. Though tired from saving the Empress Dowager and meeting Yan Chi tonight, Wan Qin felt content. Now, returning from the snowy night to find this steaming, fragrant copper hot pot, her appetite was thoroughly aroused!

“Ah, did you all prepare this?”

Wan Qin was delighted. Such charcoal copper pot dining was common only among noble families, and rarely seen among common people. In her own family, they only began eating this way after her father was promoted to Minister of Justice.

Fuling smiled, “Yes, I prepared it with the others. Thinking about how Young Miss said we’d celebrate New Year’s together tonight, I wondered what would be best to prepare. Later, seeing the snow falling heavier and heavier, I thought, with just our small group, gathering around a hot pot would be perfect.”

Walking to the couch, Fuling helped Wan Qin remove her shoes and climb up, positioning her by the window in the main seat. Baiying and Fuling also removed their shoes and climbed up, while two young maids sat on either side, and the remaining two servant girls brought high stools to sit at the couch’s edge. Thus, seven people crowded tightly around the square table.

“Young Miss, this lamb is the most tender cut from young sheep, and these side dishes are quite rare to obtain. Though we only asked for a small amount, Madam Fang from the kitchen was very generous. She made this broth for us, and this wine is her home-brewed plum wine – we can drink freely without getting drunk.”

As she spoke, Fuling first poured a cup for Wan Qin, then for Baiying and the other young maids.

Though Wan Qin typically didn’t drink, tonight she couldn’t resist. Sitting by the window with just a pane separating her from the howling wind and snow, before she was this warm pot and six smiling faces. Happy, she raised her cup and drank it all. Fuling laughed, “Even if it won’t make you drunk, Young Miss, you shouldn’t drink like that! Eat something first.”

Wan Qin smacked her lips. The wine was mild, with a subtle plum blossom fragrance, but after swallowing, that returning sweetness filled her entire mouth from her throat. Extremely satisfied, she smiled, “Delicious! Another cup!”

Fuling naturally refilled Wan Qin’s cup while Baiying began cooking food for her. Fuling asked, “Young Miss, what exactly happened tonight?”

Wan Qin’s smile broadened as she briefly explained about treating the Empress Dowager. Fuling and the others immediately stared at her with wide eyes, unable to respond for quite a while. Fuling said, “Young Miss, you treated the Empress Dowager! Only extremely capable people can treat the Empress Dowager!” To Fuling, the palace masters were almost like deities.

At this, Wan Qin showed a trace of pride, “Is your Young Miss not capable?”

Still marveling, Fuling hurriedly nodded saying “capable,” while Huan’er and the others agreed.

Wan Qin smiled, not wanting to discuss it further, and looked toward Huan’er and the others. The four young maids, being unfamiliar with Wan Qin, appeared quite nervous sitting at the same table. Looking at them, Wan Qin noticed they were all about two years younger than Fuling and Baiying, but besides one called Huan’er, she was quite unfamiliar with the other three.

Wan Qin said, “I know Huan’er, but starting with her, each of you tells me where you’re from, your age, how you came to Marquis Manor, and about your family members, so I can get to know you.”

Huan’er and the others rarely served directly under Wan Qin, only occasionally delivering messages and catching glimpses of her. They naturally held her in some awe, but tonight, Wan Qin let them dine at the same table – something other young ladies would never do.

Grateful, and seeing Wan Qin actively encouraging them to speak, their nervousness diminished somewhat. Huan’er straightened her back and began telling her story first, followed by Yu’er, Cui’er, and Zhu’er. As one spoke, the other six listened while eating. After all four maids finished speaking, they felt more at ease eating.

After they finished, Wan Qin had a general understanding. Though she didn’t like having many people serving her, she knew that if she didn’t look after those in her household, their lives would be difficult. Therefore, while she might not be overly friendly, she naturally treated them as her people.

Huan’er and the others had all been purchased by Madam Hu from slave traders, all with clean backgrounds. Except for Huan’er, they all had relatives in villages outside Lin’an City, and due to having too many brothers at home, they were sold to wealthy families as servants.

Fuling asked, “How did you get your names?”

Huan’er replied shyly, “The matrons gave them to us when we entered the manor, saying that when we were assigned to young ladies’ households, they would give us new names.”

Fuling made a surprised sound, “Would you like new names?”

Huan’er nodded quickly, “Sister Fuling and Sister Baiying’s names are so beautiful!”

Fuling smiled at Wan Qin, “My name was given by the Second Master and Second Madam. If you want new names, you must ask Young Miss to change them…”

Huan’er and the others quickly raised their wine cups, looking hopefully at Wan Qin. Wan Qin laughed – she had drunk several cups, and though not drunk, her chest felt warm. At Fuling’s suggestion, she put down her chopsticks and said, “Names… do you all want names like Fuling and Baiying?”

Huan’er and the others nodded eagerly. Wan Qin considered, “Fuling’s name comes from an herbal medicine, and Baiying… though ‘ying’ is a flower, it can also be used as medicine. How about giving you all medicine names as well?”

The girls felt whatever Wan Qin suggested must be good and nodded repeatedly.

Wan Qin thought for a moment, “Huan’er was born in summer, she could be called Banxia.”

As soon as she said this, Huan’er’s eyes lit up, and she softly repeated it several times, her face full of joy. Wan Qin looked at Yu’er, “Yu’er… there’s a medicine that would suit your name, how about Yuzhu?”

Yu’er quickly nodded, and Wan Qin looked at Cui’er, “Cui’er… there’s a name somewhat similar to your current one, how about… Qingdai?”

Compared to Cui’er, these two characters Qingdai carried much more elegance. Cui’er grinned, naturally delighted. Wan Qin then looked at Zhu’er, “Zhu’er, you were born in winter, how about Rendong?”

Zhu’er also murmured her new name repeatedly, quickly nodding with joy.

All four, having received new names, raised their wine cups to thank Wan Qin, who drank another cup herself.

Thus, with their new names, Banxia and the others became more animated, first asking about the medicinal properties of their namesake herbs, then talking about interesting things they knew about the capital, and eventually moving on to a discussion of the nobility.

Though Banxia and the others hadn’t yet served elsewhere, after being bought by the slave traders, due to their good appearances, they were trained before being presented to the Marquis Manor’s matrons. Therefore, at the slave trader’s place, they knew they were destined for noble households, and with many people there, the young girls had discussed the capital’s nobility extensively, both truth and rumor.

Just as they mentioned the Rui Prince’s Manor, Qingdai’s eyes brightened, saying she knew about it.

Fuling quickly asked, “You know about the Rui Prince’s Manor?”

Qingdai nodded and said, “I heard about it from the matron at the slave trader’s. She said the Rui Prince was the former Emperor’s most beloved son, but because he wasn’t born of the primary consort and wasn’t the eldest, he couldn’t be named Crown Prince. Later, the current Emperor ascended instead. She also said the Rui Prince’s wife was extremely beautiful, the eldest daughter of the Lu family from Lan Province. The Lu family initially didn’t want their daughter to marry the Prince, but she severed ties with her family to enter the Rui Prince’s household. However, less than three years after marriage, Lady Lu passed away. Oh yes, when she died, the Rui Prince’s heir was not yet two years old.”

Then, Qingdai’s expression suddenly changed slightly as she said, “I heard another version, but I dare not speak of it…”

When the words “Rui Prince’s Manor” were mentioned, Wan Qin’s attention was caught, and she even stopped using her chopsticks while Qingdai spoke. She knew about Yan Chi and the Rui Prince but had rarely heard about the Rui Princess Consort’s affairs. If not for Qingdai, Wan Qin wouldn’t have known the Princess Consort came from the Lu family of Lan Province.

Lan Province lay in the southeast, extremely far from the capital, yet the Lu family had been the foremost clan of the previous dynasty. During the Great Qi Dynasty before the current Great Zhou Dynasty, the Lu family of Lan Province had produced three Prime Ministers and five Empresses, with four Qi Emperors carrying Lu family blood. Thus, one can imagine that the Lu family of Lan Province was truly an extraordinary clan of ancient noble lineage.

Later, during the final years of the Great Qi, when the Qi Emperor became corrupt and favored sycophants, the Lu family, perhaps foreseeing the dynasty’s end, decisively resigned from all court positions and retreated with their clan members to Lan Province. Sure enough, less than five years after the Lu family left the capital, the Great Qi was replaced by the Great Zhou.

Because the Lu family’s retreat was timely, not only were they not listed as former officials to be eliminated, but the founding Emperor of the Great Zhou personally invited the Lu clan to serve in court, offering them the position of Prime Minister again. However, the Lu family patriarch declined the Emperor’s invitation, stating that the Lu family would never serve in office again. Over the following century, the Lu family settled in Lan Province, establishing schools and academies. The Lu clan devoted themselves to education, never accepting any official positions. Gradually, with many seeking to study there, they gained high prestige among scholars and commoners, becoming a renowned reclusive noble clan.

Because of this, it was understandable why the Princess Consort’s family initially opposed her marriage to the Rui Prince.

But what was it that Qingdai dared not say?

Fuling said helplessly, “We’re all our people here, what’s there to be afraid of? We won’t tell others.”

Fuling knew of Wan Qin’s acquaintance with Yan Chi, and since they didn’t know much about the Rui Prince’s household, this was naturally a good opportunity to learn more. At her words, Qingdai thought for a moment, then leaned forward and lowered her voice, “That old matron said… when the Princess Consort died… there were rumors that… that the Rui Prince was responsible for her death.”

As these words fell, Fuling’s chopsticks dropped onto her skirt with a clatter.

“Wh-what?” Fuling quickly glanced at Wan Qin, “How is that possible?”

Qingdai grew nervous, “It wasn’t me who said it, it was that old matron. Sister, if you don’t believe me, ask Huan’er… ask Banxia, she knows too…”

Beside them, Banxia nodded, “That old matron used to serve in a Duke’s mansion, then left to teach us servants, so she knows more than most.”

Fuling coughed lightly, seeing Wan Qin’s darkening expression, she knew Wan Qin disliked such talk and hurriedly said, “The Rui Prince’s heir is acquainted with our Young Miss. All of you, keep these words in your bellies, don’t speak of them outside!”

Hearing this, Banxia and Qingdai’s expressions changed dramatically, “Yes, yes, we’ll never dare speak carelessly again.”

Fuling also felt uncomfortable and said, “I thought it would be something interesting… but… ah, it’s all my fault, all my fault, these words must be false. Come, come, let’s eat and talk about other families.”

She poured another cup of wine for Wan Qin, “Young Miss, please pretend you never heard this.”

Wan Qin’s lips twitched as she picked up the wine cup, but how could she pretend she hadn’t heard?

Qingdai said these words came from that old matron, and only people of that age would know such things. Wan Qin didn’t know if the words were true, but at least one fact was confirmed – Yan Chi had lost his mother at a young age.

Thinking of this, Wan Qin’s heart grew heavy. Though they had just parted, she found herself missing Yan Chi.

Whether Qingdai’s words were true or false, for such rumors to have spread at the time, there must have been some underlying circumstances. Combined with Yan Chi’s injury, Wan Qin seemed to glimpse the tip of an iceberg of schemes and calculations beneath the capital’s prosperity and splendor…

Fuling brought up other topics, and the table soon grew lively again. Wan Qin had eaten her fill and listened to everyone talk, though her thoughts wandered elsewhere. After a while, the water clock in the corner of the room suddenly chimed once, and Banxia exclaimed happily, “It’s the New Year, it’s the New Year… we’ve stayed up for the New Year! Quick, quick, let’s kowtow to Young Miss…”

Banxia pulled the other young maids to kowtow, while Fuling and Baiying also got down to pay their respects. Wan Qin smiled and had Fuling bring silver coins as a reward, then put all the remaining dishes into the pot. The maids quickly finished off all the food, thus carrying their New Year’s feast from the old year into the new. After eating, Fuling poured hot tea for Wan Qin and directed the other maids to clean up the table. Wan Qin curled up by the bed holding a cup of hot tea, faintly able to see the heavily falling snow through the window paper.

The 240th year of the Great Zhou calendar had thus arrived.

…

…

Having drunk wine, Wan Qin slept very soundly that night. Early the next morning when she opened her eyes, she heard the sound of firecrackers, and after gathering her thoughts, she heard Shuang Qin’s voice.

Wan Qin’s lips curved into a smile as she rose to change clothes. After finishing her morning ablutions and coming out, she saw the snow had stopped, and Shuang Qin was standing in the snow outside wearing a cloak. She covered her ears with both hands while Wanjing was trying to bury a small firecracker in the snow to light it. However, Wanjing was also afraid and kept leaning away as she reached out, unable to light it after quite some time!

Fuling supported Wan Qin as she went outside. Wan Qin laughed, “You come to make trouble so early!”

Seeing Wan Qin awake, Shuang Qin immediately lost interest in the firecrackers and rushed over to her, “You have some nerve to talk! We waited for you last night for the New Year’s dinner. Tell me, what exactly were you doing last night?”

Wan Qin’s lips curved slightly, “The Empress Dowager was ill, I went to treat her.”

Shuang Qin froze, “You mean… the Empress Dowager?”

Wan Qin nodded, and Shuang Qin exclaimed in surprise, “The Empress Dowager gets sick?”

Wan Qin couldn’t help but laugh, “The Empress Dowager is human too, of course, she can fall ill.”

Shuang Qin hadn’t yet recovered from her shock, “But that’s the Empress Dowager… how could they let you treat her? Doesn’t the palace have Imperial Physicians? Aren’t they the most skilled doctors in the world?”

Wan Qin shook her head. The Imperial Physicians were skilled, but they couldn’t be called the most skilled. “Last night, the Imperial Physician who usually treats the Empress Dowager wasn’t in the palace. The situation was urgent, so I treated her instead.”

Shuang Qin stared blankly at Wan Qin, then suddenly came forward and pressed a sachet into her hands, “Here, this is your New Year’s gift. There’s a ruyi knot inside, it’s auspicious.”

Wan Qin laughed, then looked at Fuling, who also brought out a small ornament for Shuang Qin. Shuang Qin clung to Wan Qin’s arm in an ingratiating manner, “You’re becoming more and more impressive. When you rise to prominence, don’t forget about me!”

Shuang Qin’s sincere fawning made all the young maids in the courtyard laugh.

Wan Qin pretended to be stern, “Then you’d better make sure to stay on my good side.”

Shuang Qin snorted lightly but extended her hand again, “Come on, come on, let me help you go find our Fifth Sister. Aunt said we’ll have our reunion dinner this morning after you return, and told us to go to Renshou Hall as soon as we wake up.”

Wan Qin smiled but didn’t take Shuang Qin’s offered hand, instead placing her hand in the crook of Shuang Qin’s arm. Shuang Qin smiled happily and walked out with Wan Qin’s arm in hers. Just after leaving the door, they saw Xiang Qin walking ahead with Wanhe and Xiuzhi. Shuang Qin called out, and Xiang Qin stopped and turned around.

“Has our little medical immortal returned?”

Xiang Qin’s first words carried a strange tone, and clearly, she knew what Wan Qin had done last night.

Wan Qin smiled without speaking, only looking at Fuling, who went forward to present Xiang Qin’s New Year’s gift. Xiang Qin glanced at it and had Wanhe accept it, then walked ahead. Shuang Qin raised her eyebrows, suddenly not wanting to give the prepared sachet.

The three sisters walked to Renshou Hall, one in front and two behind. As they approached, they saw a young man in a green robe covered by a navy blue cloak standing before the hall. Looking at his profile, he bore a slight resemblance to Secretary Qin. Wan Qin raised an eyebrow, immediately understanding who it was, and at the same time, the man turned to look at the three of them.

Seeing them, the man’s face broke into a faint smile, and he bowed, “Greetings, sisters.”

Xiang Qin stopped, startled, then said, “Fourth Brother?”

Si Qin’s smile deepened, “This must be Fifth Sister? And behind are Sixth Sister and Ninth Sister?”

Si-Qin was a year younger than Yan Qin, similarly tall and handsome, but compared to Yan Qin, he carried more of a martial air. Despite this, it only added to his heroic bearing. His speech was clear and bright, and his eyes, unlike Yan Qin’s impenetrable gaze, seemed particularly transparent. Because of this, Wan Qin could see that his smile didn’t reach his eyes. Though he appeared very amiable, it seemed he felt little real closeness to the three sisters.

Wan Qin knew this Fourth Brother was born of a concubine. He had been away on business earlier, and she didn’t know when he had returned – she hadn’t seen him after returning to the manor last night.

“Fourth Brother—”

Wan Qin and Shuang Qin curtsied together. Wan Qin lowered her gaze and noticed mud and dampness on Si Qin’s boots, while his hairline showed traces of sweat, as if he had been training early in the morning.

As Wan Qin pondered this, she saw Secretary Qin and Madam Hu approaching arm in arm, followed by Yu Qin Chaoyu and Yan Qin.

Si-Qin looked up and hurried forward to bow, with Xiang Qin and the others following suit.

Si-Qin said, “Father, Mother, I returned too late last night and missed the proper time. It was my fault.”

Secretary Qin was in an excellent mood and didn’t mind at all, simply coming forward and putting an arm around Si Qin’s shoulders, “I’ve read all the messages you sent back. You handled everything extremely well this time! You must be tired. Now that you’re back, rest well. You weren’t here last night, and as it happened, your Ninth Sister was also delayed by something, so now our whole family can have a proper reunion meal together.”

Then looking at Wan Qin and the others, he asked, “Have you all met? Do you recognize each other?”

Si-Qin smiled, “We’ve met. Father described them in his letter, and I recognized them at once.”

Secretary Qin laughed heartily. Seeing the two of them, Wan Qin noticed how well Secretary Qin treated this son born of a concubine. Glancing at Yan Qin, she saw a faint smile in his eyes, while Madam Hu also appeared full of smiles. Only Yu Qin Chaoyu seemed indifferent to Si Qin.

Since breakfast had become the reunion meal, everything was naturally prepared in advance. Wan Qin and the others entered the room and took their seats according to rank. The table was laden with delicacies. Secretary Qin raised his wine cup, while Wan Qin and the others still had the plum rice wine from last night. After Secretary Qin spoke a few brief words of blessing, everyone began eating. With Si Qin’s addition, the table became even more harmonious. Though this Fourth Brother didn’t speak much, each word he uttered deepened Secretary Qin’s smile, which Wan Qin couldn’t help but admire.

“This year is good. Our manor has gained three new daughters, making this New Year livelier than previous years.”

Looking at Si-Qin and Yan Qin, he continued, “Yan’er and Si’er are both doing well. This year, hopefully, Yan’er can enter the Imperial Guard, and there’s Yu’er too. In any case, because of Wan’er, we’ve already had a good start to the year. May everything go smoothly for us throughout the year.”

Si-Qin showed no surprise at Secretary Qin’s words, clearly already aware of Wan Qin’s deeds.

Yan Qin hurriedly said, “Father, rest assured, I will prepare well.”

Secretary Qin nodded, “Our manor has many matters to attend to this year. I’ll look after you two’s affairs, while Xiang’er and the others will be your aunt’s concern. Xiang’er and Shuang’er are both grown up now, and your uncle truly wishes to keep you here this year.”

The meaning of these words was very clear. Wan Qin glanced at Shuang Qin, seeing her cheeks had already turned red.

After the New Year, Wan Qin and Yu Qin Chaoyu would be seventeen, while Xiang Qin and Shuang Qin were already eighteen. With Xiang Qin being older, her marriage would naturally be considered first. The best plan would be for the two to be betrothed in the first half of the year and marry in the second half or early next year. Setting aside Yu Qin Chaoyu’s prospects as future Crown Princess, once these three were settled, it would be Wan Qin’s turn.

Wan Qin felt slightly relieved. No matter how powerful the Marquis Manor was, they wouldn’t marry off four daughters in one year. She still had time to consider her father’s case, and coincidentally, her saving the Empress Dowager last night was also, in a way, for her benefit.

As this was a reunion meal, such topics were inevitable, but Secretary Qin only touched briefly on matters concerning daughters. After a few more words, Si-Qin said, “Father, what do you think about me joining the Patrol Guard?”

At these words, Madam Hu’s expression slightly dimmed, and Secretary Qin’s brows furrowed. After a moment’s thought, Secretary Qin said, “I’ll try my best to arrange it.”

Si Qin’s smile broadened, “Good, thank you, Father.”

Just as he finished speaking, Steward Wu Yang suddenly entered from outside with a joyful expression, “Marquis! Madam! Someone has come from the palace!”

Secretary Qin’s eyes brightened. The New Year’s rewards for their manor had already been delivered by Yuan Qing yesterday, so why now? Without saying more, it must be for Wan Qin. Sure enough, Wu Yang continued, “Eunuch Yuan has come personally, asking specifically for Ninth Young Miss.”

Secretary Qin stood up, “Wan’er, let’s go—”

Though they had asked specifically for Wan Qin, Madam Hu and the others all followed to the front courtyard. Even Fuling, Baiying, and the other maids followed. Upon reaching the front courtyard, they saw not only Yuan Qing but also more than ten palace servants, making quite an impressive sight. Not only were there many people, but the front courtyard was also filled with boxes and chests of various sizes, clearly indicating extremely generous rewards!

“My respects to the Marquis and Madam,” Yuan Qing first bowed to Secretary Qin, then nodded to Wan Qin, “Ninth Young Miss.”

Wan Qin and the others curtsied together. Secretary Qin said, “Happy New Year, Eunuch. Coming to our manor so early today, this is…”

Yuan Qing smiled, “Marquis, you’re pretending not to know. You must already know that Ninth Young Miss saved the Empress Dowager last night.”

Secretary Qin smiled, and Yuan Qing looked at Wan Qin and said, “Ninth Young Miss, before dawn today, the Empress Dowager indeed awoke, took her medicine, and went back to sleep. I’ve come firstly to deliver rewards, and secondly to convey a verbal decree: the Emperor commands you to enter the palace before noon to check on the Empress Dowager again.”

Wan Qin hurriedly said, “This commoner accepts the imperial command—”

Yuan Qing nodded and turned around, “These are the Emperor’s rewards for Ninth Young Miss: twenty bolts of brocade, a pair of gold ruyi scepters, a box of Eastern Sea pearls, twenty jade pieces large and small, and a box of blood jade stones, each the size of a pigeon’s egg.”

Then, specifically pointing to two boxes, “These are from the Empress for Ninth Young Miss: two sets of sapphire-inlaid headdresses, two pairs of coral bracelets, two pairs of gold-inlaid jade bangles, two pure gold dragon-pattern necklaces, and twelve pieces including hairpins, rings, swaying ornaments, and earrings.”

Turning again, he pointed to two boxes opposite, “These are from Noble Consort Su for Ninth Young Miss: a coral tree, two-hundred-year-old ginseng roots, two-hundred-year-old lingzhi mushrooms, and a box of twin snow lotus flowers.”

Standing at a distance, Fuling’s eyes were already shining brightly, while nearby, Wan Qin maintained a calm expression as she heard about these jewels, treasures, and spiritual medicines. Yuan Qing said, “These are all for Ninth Young Miss, to reward her for saving the Empress Dowager.”

Wan Qin quickly curtsied, “Thank you to His Majesty, Her Majesty the Empress, and Noble Consort Su for their generous rewards. This commoner is grateful.”

Yuan Qing smiled and instructed, “His Majesty and the two ladies are waiting for Ninth Young Miss. Though noon was mentioned, please come to the palace a bit earlier.” Then he took out a waist tablet from his sleeve, “This is the tablet His Majesty has given you. There won’t be a need to send someone to escort you from the manor – once you enter the palace gates, someone will guide you to Shoukang Palace.”

Wan Qin looked at the “Yan” character tablet with slight surprise. The “Yan” was written in ancient seal script, with a black background and gold paint highlighting gold dragon patterns carved into it. It was an imperial item. As Wan Qin took it, she felt its substantial weight in her hand.

“Yes, this commoner will arrive early.”

Yuan Qing smiled at this, “Good, then this old servant will take his leave.”

He bowed to Secretary Qin and indeed left with his people. After Yuan Qing’s group departed, the front courtyard became empty except for the rewards covering the ground. Looking at all the rewards, Wan Qin hadn’t quite recovered her composure. Though she had expected rewards, their magnitude still shocked her considerably.

Just then, another voice rang out—

“Haha, it seems I’ve come at just the right time!”

Wan Qin looked toward the voice and saw it was Baishi Zheng! Behind him was the stern-faced Yang Zhan, and beside Yang Zhan, Yun Li Mu was smiling at Wan Qin.