In the dim morning light, Qin Wan opened her eyes feeling somewhat relieved. Although Ning Buyi had taken his own life, at least the case was solved, and she no longer needed to worry about more deaths occurring as time passed.

Qin Wan lingered in bed for a moment before rising. After breakfast, she took Bai Ying with her directly to the government office. Her visit today was regarding Daoist Zhang.

At the office, Zheng Baishi had gone to court to present the case’s conclusion, leaving only Zhan Yang at the yamen. Though the case was resolved, the official documentation needed to be meticulous. Zheng Baishi’s palace visit was merely to inform everyone that the case had been solved.

Zhan Yang, not particularly skilled at writing official documents, sat with his brows furrowed into the shape of a river character (川). Upon seeing Qin Wan arrive, he set down his brush and came to pay his respects. Qin Wan smiled lightly, “Captain Zhan, might you know where Daoist Zhang is?”

Zhan Yang pointed toward the direction of the rear courtyard cells, “He should still be in his room.”

Qin Wan nodded, glancing at the official documents on the desk. “Yesterday, I heard Captain Zhan mention going to Feng Qi Tower. Did you learn anything?”

Captain Zhan nodded, “I went early this morning. Qing Mei, who was close to Ning Buyi, told me that when he visited her, he indeed enjoyed listening to stories about the city’s wealthy patrons. However, he never deliberately sought information. Qing Mei considered him a confidant and, feeling indignant about the wealthy’s misdeeds, used them as examples of villains in her stories to Ning Buyi.”

Qin Wan sighed, “Ning Buyi came to the capital alone, then opened this Dye Ink Painting Gallery. Just as his reputation was rising, he committed such acts. He had no family or friends in the capital, not even a trusted servant…”

Zhan Yang frowned, “Princess, you find this point particularly strange?”

Qin Wan nodded, “Yes, something doesn’t feel quite right.”

A person, by nature, either pursues fame and fortune or maintains a detached mindset, but they must have some pursuit in their heart. Ning Buyi loved painting, and even in his final moments, he transferred ownership of his gallery, showing his desire for it to continue. Looking at his daily conduct and behavior, there was no particular sign of ruthlessness or obsession. Though such deeply calculating evildoers were adept at concealment, when Qin Wan thought of Ning Buyi’s various behaviors the previous night, she found it extremely peculiar. He had drifted into the capital alone, without attachments – what exactly motivated him to set up those Daoist rituals?

Qin Wan sighed, “His Highness the Crown Prince has already sent people to Huzhou to investigate Ning Buyi. Once we receive news from there, we should understand some of the causes and effects. The person who entered the capital has died, so many details of this case will remain unclear. It’s quite unfortunate.”

Zhan Yang smiled bitterly, “Indeed, I don’t even know where to begin with this official document.”

Unable to help with that matter, Qin Wan exchanged a few more words before heading toward the cell where Daoist Zhang resided.

It was already summer, and when Qin Wan entered the courtyard, Daoist Zhang was sitting under the eaves enjoying the cool air. The sun had already risen high, making the air sweltering. Upon seeing Qin Wan enter, Daoist Zhang immediately stood up.

“Greetings, Princess—”

Daoist Zhang had been busy all of yesterday, only determining the third location at the hour of night watch. With the case solved last night, he had presumably gotten a good rest, as his complexion looked much better.

Qin Wan smiled slightly, “Now that the case is solved, Daoist Zhang has finally cleared his name.”

Zhang Dongxuan laughed heartily at these words, “Indeed. Although I treated this matter as a cultivation practice, being wrongly accused was truly an unpleasant experience. Now that the truth has come to light, I can finally say I’ve made it through.”

Qin Wan then asked, “What are Daoist Zhang’s plans from here?”

Zhang Dongxuan looked at Qin Wan with a slight smile, “I remember telling the Princess before that once this matter was resolved, I would travel around outside. These past few years confined in that prison have made this old man’s joints quite rusty.”

Qin Wan continued, “And after traveling?”

Zhang Dongxuan raised his eyes to look at the sky, “This old man hasn’t thought that far ahead, but in this vast world, there must be a place for me.” He looked toward Qin Wan, “Does the Princess have any suggestions?”

Qin Wan smiled, “Might Daoist Zhang be interested in court affairs?”

Zhang Dongxuan seemed to understand what Qin Wan was suggesting, his eyes twinkling as he asked, “Is the Princess speaking for herself or someone else?”

Understanding that Zhang Dongxuan was no ordinary person, Qin Wan naturally knew he had grasped her meaning. She smiled elegantly, “Certainly not for myself. I simply don’t want to waste Daoist Zhang’s talents. However, since you enjoy wandering, I definitely won’t force you. But if one day you wish to return to this mundane world of prosperity, please come find me.”

Zhang Dongxuan quickly cupped his hands, “Princess has saved this old man’s life. Regardless of my wishes, if the Princess has any commands, this old man will comply.”

Qin Wan waved her hand, “Daoist Zhang, you’re too kind. As I said before, that was merely a small gesture. I maintain what I said earlier – if you have any thoughts on the matter, please do let me know.”

Zhang Dongxuan nodded and solemnly agreed. Only then did Qin Wan turn to leave. After taking two steps, Zhang Dongxuan called out, “Princess, please wait.”

Qin Wan turned around, and Zhang Dongxuan continued, “The matter that concerns the Princess will surely be resolved. There are many noble people around the Princess, and the Crown Prince is an excellent choice.” With a smile, he added, “The Princess surely sees this, however, the Crown Prince may face some tribulation soon. Given your close relationship with him, please be sure to remind him of this.”

Qin Wan’s expression changed slightly. These two short sentences from Zhang Dongxuan were indeed profound, “Daoist Zhang, you mean…”

Zhang Dongxuan merely smiled mysteriously, “Words cannot reveal all. The Princess need only remember this old man’s words.” Looking up at the blazing sky, he continued, “Though the capital is a den of tigers and wolves, for the Crown Prince, it would be best not to leave this place in the coming half year. Wait until the tribulation passes before considering otherwise.”

Qin Wan had many questions, but Zhang Dongxuan would certainly not explain everything in detail.

Taking a deep breath, Qin Wan nodded, “Thank you, Daoist Zhang. I will remember.”

Zhang Dongxuan nodded without further words, and Qin Wan turned to leave, her steps heavier than when she arrived.

Had Zhang Dongxuan seen through her relationship with Yan Chi? Recently, the case of military provisions in Shuo Xi had been weighing heavily on Yan Chi’s mind. He had said that if no more news came from Shuo Xi, he would go there personally. Yet Zhang Dongxuan said he shouldn’t leave the capital in the next half year. Zhang Dongxuan didn’t know about the Shuo Xi military provisions, and he had no reason to deceive her.

Qin Wan’s heart sank further. This meant that Yan Chi couldn’t leave the capital for the next half year, and his tribulation would likely occur after he left the capital—

Given Yan Chi’s personality, once he made a decision, he would not change it. Moreover, since the matter involved the Shuo Xi army, he would not stand idly by. If things came to that point, how could she persuade Yan Chi?

To ignore the Shuo Xi army for the sake of his safety?

Qin Wan shook her head inwardly. Yan Chi would never do such a thing, and she couldn’t bring herself to suggest it.

Returning to the front hall, despite the hot weather, Qin Wan’s back was covered in cold sweat. Seeing her unusual expression, Zhan Yang asked, “Princess, what’s wrong? What did Daoist Zhang say?”

Qin Wan steadied herself. The matter hadn’t happened yet; she couldn’t let herself become distraught.

“Nothing. I just asked about Daoist Zhang’s plans. He said he intends to travel around.”

Zhan Yang nodded, “These years have been unfair to him. I wonder if the government can compensate him somehow. We’ll have to wait for the magistrate to return from the palace to discuss this.”

Qin Wan made a sound of agreement and was about to say more when a yamen runner came in from outside.

“Captain, there’s a young lady outside who says she’s here to claim Ning Buyi’s remains.”

Hearing this, Qin Wan’s eyes brightened immediately, and she quickly said, “Please invite the young lady in!”

Captain Zhan looked questioningly at Qin Wan, who explained, “I don’t know if it’s who I think it is, but I saw Ning Buyi speaking with a young lady at the painting gallery. She’s the daughter of his grand-uncle, and they had a verbal marriage agreement before. But after his family’s decline, her parents wanted to marry her to someone else. When I saw them, Ning Buyi was rejecting her.”

Zhan Yang thought for a moment, “I understand. That’s what he used to disguise himself as a victim before.”

Qin Wan nodded; she had witnessed that scene by chance and had even served as a witness for Ning Buyi.

Soon, the young lady was brought in. When Qin Wan saw her, it was indeed the same young lady she had seen that day. Led by the yamen runner, her eyes were red, and she appeared somewhat haggard.

Upon entering and seeing Qin Wan, she was slightly startled, clearly remembering her.

“This is Princess Yongci, and this is our Captain Zhan Yang.”

The young lady’s eyes widened in surprise, apparently not expecting Qin Wan’s status to be so noble. She hurriedly bowed, “Yu Fangze pays respects to the Princess and Captain—”

Qin Wan stepped forward, “No need for formalities, Miss Yu. I remember you.”

Yu Fangze smiled bitterly, “Princess, this commoner remembers you as well.”

Thinking of that day, Yu Fangze’s eyes reddened again. Qin Wan stepped forward to take her hand and help her sit down, “You’ve come to claim Young Master Ning’s remains? Then you must know about what happened?”

Yu Fangze’s tears fell instantly, “Princess, Captain, I don’t believe he would do such things. It couldn’t have been him. Could the authorities have made a mistake?”

Qin Wan and Zhan Yang exchanged glances. Though disapproval showed in Zhan Yang’s eyes, faced with the tearful Yu Fangze, he couldn’t bring himself to say harsh words. Qin Wan avoided addressing this topic directly, “That day I heard Young Master Ning mention you, saying you were childhood friends?”

Yu Fangze became somewhat agitated. In her impression, Ning Buyi naturally couldn’t be an evil person. It would be useless for Qin Wan to argue these points with her. Not answering Yu Fangze’s question, Qin Wan led her to a new topic. In her grief-stricken state, Yu Fangze was drawn to the new question. She nodded tearfully, “Yes, our families were old friends. His father was originally the Assistant Surveillance Commissioner at the Provincial Administration Office of the River Works in Huzhou. His father was a native of Huzhou, and after obtaining his official rank, he returned to serve in his hometown, which was quite an honor for the family.”

Qin Wan hadn’t expected Yu Fangze to come, but hearing her speak of this, she knew this was the best opportunity to inquire about Ning Buyi’s background. “But I heard Young Master Ning say that his family later encountered misfortune.”

Speaking of this matter, Yu Fangze’s tears fell again, “It happened eight years ago, during the summer. Huzhou experienced continuous heavy rains, and both the Min River and Qin River within Huzhou’s borders flooded, eventually leading to a disaster. The Provincial Administration Office and the Huzhou Prefecture Office jointly conducted disaster relief, but somehow a corruption case emerged. In the end, the Huzhou Prefect and Uncle Ning were held responsible and sentenced to death by beheading. When it happened, he was away studying. By the time he returned, Uncle Ning’s body was already cold, and Aunt Ning fell gravely ill from the shock and passed away shortly after.”

“Originally, their branch was the pride of the Ning clan, but after this incident, the clan feared being implicated and drove out the widow and orphan. His uncles all turned their backs on them. He believed Uncle Ning was wrongly accused and repeatedly went to the prefecture office to appeal, even reaching out to the Governor’s office, but to no avail. Moreover, as the son of a convicted criminal, he could no longer take the imperial examinations. After his mother’s death, he left Huzhou in anger. I don’t know where he went after that. Three years ago, I heard he had opened a painting gallery in the capital. I wrote many letters but received no replies. When I arrived in the capital earlier this year, I finally saw him. It had been seven years since we last met. Back then, Uncle Ning and my father had arranged our childhood betrothal, and I always considered him my future husband, but after that incident…”

Yu Fangze wept silently. Qin Wan’s heart grew heavy listening to the story. “After such events, your parents naturally hoped for you to marry into a good family. It’s a pity about your deep feelings.”

Yu Fangze shook her head with a bitter smile, “Three years ago when I got news of him, I thought he would return to Huzhou, but he didn’t. When I came to the capital earlier this year, I still couldn’t let go, so I sought him out several times. He also did it for me… My parents have already arranged my marriage, I shouldn’t have… but I don’t believe he was as people said. Now that he’s gone, alone, he might not even have a proper grave. That’s why I want to give him a proper burial.”

For criminals who committed serious offenses, there naturally was no good end. The mass graves outside the city would be their final resting place, but now that Yu Fangze had come to claim the remains, some accommodations could be made.

Seeing that neither Qin Wan nor Zhan Yang spoke, Yu Fangze continued, “Princess, Captain Zhan, did he kill someone? How could that be? Since his youth, he loved painting and devoted all his attention to it. Even when Uncle Ning wanted him to become a student supervisor early on, he refused. He was never arrogant like other officials’ children. Usually, he wouldn’t even bear to step on an ant…”

As Yu Fangze spoke, her tears flowed more freely. Qin Wan and Zhan Yang exchanged glances, unsure how to console her.

Perhaps the former Ning Buyi was truly as good as Yu Fangze described, but after the Ning family’s incident, Yu Fangze hadn’t seen him for seven years. Seven years was enough time for a person’s nature to change completely.

“Miss Yu, don’t be sad. This case hasn’t been completely closed yet. Usually, a murderer’s remains cannot be returned to the family, but… since he’s already deceased, if you’re sincere, you can wait for the perfect to return and discuss the matter.”

As an unmarried woman, Yu Fangze’s willingness to claim Ning Buyi’s remains showed her deep loyalty to him. Qin Wan couldn’t bear to refuse and looked toward Zhan Yang, who nodded and said, “Magistrate Zheng should return soon.”

Yu Fangze grabbed Qin Wan’s hand, “Princess, did he kill someone?”

As Yu Fangze seemed determined to know the truth, Qin Wan sighed and had to answer, “Yes, he confessed himself.”

Yu Fangze’s face turned pale, and she tightly pressed her lips together.

Qin Wan patted her shoulder gently, “He died last night from poison, seemingly taking his own life out of guilt. Before dying, he confessed his crimes. However, with his passing, many details remain unknown to us. Do you know if he had any trusted friends or old acquaintances in the capital?”

Yu Fangze shook her head, tears flowing, “I only arrived in the capital early this year, and each time I saw him was just briefly. I don’t know who his friends were, only that he had run this painting gallery for almost six years. I can’t know anything else now.”

Qin Wan nodded and offered her handkerchief to Yu Fangze. Yu Fangze took it and wiped her tears, suddenly feeling somewhat improper, though neither Qin Wan nor Zhan Yang would blame her. Qin Wan had planned to leave but seeing Yu Fangze’s state, decided to stay, considering it might be uncomfortable for Yu Fangze to be alone among men in the yamen.

Soon after, Zheng Baishi returned from the palace. With the case solved, the Emperor’s anger had subsided, and he even praised Zheng Baishi. Thus, Zheng Baishi was in good spirits. Seeing Yu Fangze tearfully begging to claim Ning Buyi’s remains, he didn’t make things difficult and granted permission after a few words. They needed to investigate Ning Buyi’s connections, but his remains were just a shell – death extinguishes all, and the yamen wouldn’t fixate on it. Even throwing the body in the mass graves would just be a formality.

Having achieved her wish, Yu Fangze repeatedly thanked Qin Wan before following the yamen runner to the public mortuary.

Watching Yu Fangze leave, Qin Wan sighed. Ning Buyi wasn’t completely alone after all; at least Yu Fangze’s devotion to him was admirable.

Leaving the prefect’s office, Qin Wan headed directly to the Anyang Marquis’s mansion.

Yue Ning had returned so late last night, and Wei Qizhi was injured – she wondered about his condition.

When Qin Wan arrived at the Anyang Marquis’s mansion, she was surprised to find Wei Qizhi there!

In the garden, as soon as Yue Ning saw Qin Wan, she said, “You’ve come at the right time. He brought the paintings.”

Qin Wan was slightly surprised and saw Wu Shu indeed holding several scroll paintings nearby. Wei Qizhi said, “I’ve purchased all the paintings the Princess liked earlier. Would you like to take a look?”

Qin Wan was quite surprised, as she had planned to buy them herself. “How much do these two paintings cost in total?”

Wei Qizhi waved his hand dismissively, “This is my way of showing gratitude for the Princess’s treatment of my wound that day, so I absolutely won’t accept any money from the Princess. If you consider me a friend, please accept these paintings.”

Qin Wan frowned; accepting paintings from Wei Qizhi was impossible for her.

However, Qin Wan didn’t rush to argue with Wei Qizhi about this matter. “Then I thank you first.” She continued, “Although your wound isn’t severe, you should be resting in bed today. Why did you come to the Marquis’s mansion?”

Wei Qizhi glanced at Yue Ning, “Isn’t it to apologize to the Princess?”

Hearing this, Yue Ning’s eyes narrowed, “You dare bring that up?”

Wei Qizhi smiled cheerfully, unafraid of Yue Ning’s reaction, “Last night was urgent, and I didn’t know what to say, so I just continued with our previous act. Princess, please don’t take offense.”

Yue Ning frowned, wanting to scold him but unsure what to say. Last night was indeed critical, and while Wei Qizhi’s actions might not have been entirely appropriate, when lives were at stake, who would care about such things?

Seeing Yue Ning’s expression of suppressed anger, Wei Qizhi grinned and took a painting scroll from Wu Shu, “This painting is for the Princess. Such a magnificent scene – I think the Princess will like it.”

Yue Ning raised an eyebrow, “What’s this about?”

Wei Qizhi was certain Yue Ning would like it and said, “Naturally, it’s to apologize.”

Yue Ning pulled Qin Wan toward the corridor, “Unnecessary! Just don’t say such things carelessly in the future. I won’t hold last night’s emergency against you…”

Hearing Yue Ning’s words, Qin Wan looked back and saw Wei Qizhi still carefully following behind. Qin Wan said, “This painting is indeed quite nice, and I imagine it’s not too expensive…”

Wei Qizhi immediately responded, “Right, it’s not expensive. Princess, please accept it so I can rest easy.”

Yue Ning frowned, not believing Wei Qizhi would truly be unable to rest easy.

Seeing Yue Ning unmoved, Wei Qizhi said, “If the Princess won’t accept it, I’ll have to come visit every day.”

Hearing this, Yue Ning felt a headache coming on. When it came to thick skin, Wei Qizhi was truly unmatched. Yue Ning reluctantly said, “Fine then, leave the painting, but you can go now. Take care of that wound of yours.”

Wei Qizhi smiled, “Thank you for your concern, Princess. Now that I’ve delivered the paintings, I’ll take my leave. Princess Yongci, farewell.”

Qin Wan nodded and joined Yue Ning in watching Wei Qizhi leave.

As soon as Wei Qizhi left, Yue Ning complained, “This Wei Qizhi is getting more and more unpredictable and thick-skinned. He even dares to threaten me! If it weren’t for his injury, I’d want to hit him.”

Qin Wan couldn’t help but laugh. Yue Ning asked, “What’s so funny? You think I won’t hit him?”

Qin Wan shook her head, “No, no, I was just thinking that if you wanted to hit him, he’d probably just stand there motionless and let you do it. So go ahead and hit him if you want!”

Yue Ning blinked, hearing Qin Wan’s words, and her ears inexplicably began to burn.

How could such a grown man just stand there motionless and let her hit him?

Not wanting to joke about this too much, Qin Wan said, “Tomorrow I plan to visit the Empress Dowager in the palace. Would you like to come along?”

Yue Ning nodded casually, “Of course.”

“Good, I’ll come get you then—”

The Anyang Marquis’s mansion was closer to the Imperial City, so coming to get Yue Ning wouldn’t be too far out of the way.

Qin Wan stayed at the Anyang Marquis’s mansion until the afternoon before returning to her residence. The next day, she came early to the mansion. Since Princess Tai was feeling lazy these days, only Qin Wan and Yue Ning entered the palace.

Qin Wan hadn’t entered the palace for many days due to the case, and today when she arrived at Shoukang Palace, the Empress Dowager was overjoyed.

“I’ve heard everything. What a strange case it was. Fortunately, you helped.”

Qin Wan shook her head, “Empress Dowager, you’re being partial. Prefect Zheng and Captain Zhan were the main force. I merely assisted. Oh right, Yue Ning helped too!”

The Empress Dowager quickly asked Yue Ning, who had to briefly explain her scheme to Qin Wan and Wei Qizhi. The Empress Dowager listened as if to a storybook, and learning how Qin Wan had thought of such a plan, and how Wei Qizhi had risked his life and been wounded, she couldn’t help but exclaim repeatedly, “You were all so bold, not afraid of anything going wrong…”

Yet she added, “Ah, only you young people can do such thrilling things. I’m too old now…”

There was a note of regret in her voice – if the Empress Dowager were young, she would probably have joined Qin Wan and the others in their adventure.

As they were talking, Ninth Prince Yan Sui tottered in from outside. Seeing Qin Wan, he came forward and asked, “How is my little bird?”

At this question, Qin Wan didn’t know how to respond.

Yan Sui’s eyes looked expectantly at Qin Wan. She had no choice but to say, “Of course it’s fine! When it first went out, it wouldn’t eat or drink, but now it’s used to it. Every morning I can hear it chirping.”

Yan Sui’s eyes brightened, “That’s right.”

Yue Ning asked, “What does Your Highness mean by ‘that’s right’?”

A smile appeared on Yan Sui’s face, “She, taking it away, was right.”

The Empress Dowager laughed hearing this, “Silly child, remembering a bird for so many days. According to Matron Su, he keeps mentioning it from time to time—”

Just then, Matron Chen came in from outside and said, “Empress Dowager, an attendant from the Fifth Princess’s palace has come, saying there’s an urgent matter to see you—”

The Empress Dowager frowned and quickly said, “Let her in.”

Matron Chen left and soon a palace maid entered. Her eyes were red, and upon seeing the Empress Dowager, she knelt, “Empress Dowager, please, please go save our Princess! The Empress is going to beat the Princess to death!”

The Empress Dowager’s expression changed, and Qin Wan and Yue Ning instinctively exchanged glances!

The Empress usually loved the Princess dearly – how could she possibly beat her to death?!

The Empress Dowager stood up. Though the palace maid’s words seemed absurd, if they weren’t serious, how could they have come to seek her help? The Empress Dowager immediately ordered Matron Chen, “Prepare the carriage to Fifth Princess’s palace—”

The Fifth Princess lived in Jingning Palace, north of Kunning Palace. As the Empress Dowager headed to Jingning Palace, Yue Ning, and Qin Wan looked at each other, unsure whether they should follow. The Empress Dowager said, “You two wait here, we don’t know what the matter is yet.”

Not knowing the situation, it would be inappropriate for them to go along impulsively.

Qin Wan nodded and stayed in Shoukang Palace with Yue Ning. After the Empress Dowager left, Yue Ning whispered, “The Northern Wei envoys left several days ago, having settled the marriage alliance. The Empress said the Fifth Princess agreed, but given this scene, it seems the Fifth Princess didn’t truly agree and must have changed her mind now.”

Tuoba Wu and his party had delayed their departure repeatedly. They were supposed to leave earlier, but the Fifth Princess firmly refused to marry into Northern Wei. However, the Empress strongly favored this marriage, so she had the Northern Wei delegation stay longer to persuade the Fifth Princess to change her mind.

Qin Wan sighed, “Being an empress in Northern Wei brings honor, but it’s too far from home.”

Yue Ning nodded, “Indeed, once she goes to Northern Wei, she’ll likely never return to her maternal family.”

As the two were feeling bored, they noticed Yan Sui again hunched over a table, writing and drawing. Qin Wan’s heart stirred, and she quickly went to see what he was writing. To her surprise, she discovered Yan Sui was writing the character for “king.”

Yan Sui had a habit of writing and drawing and had once drawn a very strange portrait. Qin Wan had always been very interested in this but hadn’t gotten any definite clues during the Weishan hunting grounds incident. Now, Yan Sui was deliberately writing the character for “king.”

“Ninth Prince, why are you writing this character?”

Yan Sui raised his head to look at Qin Wan, “Mother.”

Yan Sui was withdrawn by nature. Sometimes he could speak a complete sentence, but other times he couldn’t manage even that. Like now, he only said these two words and Qin Wan had no idea what he meant.

“Did Noble Consort Jin teach you this?”

Yan Sui shook his head and lowered it again. Qin Wan grew anxious, “Then did Noble Consort Jin say something to you about it?”

Yan Sui remained silent, not even looking at Qin Wan.

Qin Wan was about to ask more, but Yue Ning glanced warily outside and said, “Why are you asking these things? Don’t you know this is taboo?”

At Yue Ning’s words, Yan Sui seemed to understand and stopped writing, turning to run outside.

Qin Wan was frustrated, while Yue Ning looked at her suspiciously, “What’s wrong with you? One can’t mention Noble Consort Jin in the palace.”

Qin Wan could only smile bitterly, “Don’t worry, I know.”

Qin Wan dared not reveal her thoughts, but although Yan Sui was close to her, he still seemed to have an emotional barrier. When Noble Consort Jin was killed, Yan Sui was the first to arrive at the scene and might have seen something – this was an extremely important clue.

Qin Wan didn’t continue questioning. Soon, the Empress Dowager returned to Shoukang Palace with a thin anger on her face, and Qin Wan and Yue Ning hurried to welcome her.

As soon as she sat down, the Empress Dowager heaved a long sigh, “What a tragedy! The Empress loves Zhen’er most dearly, but this time she’s being foolish…”

Matron Chen, who had accompanied her, quickly said, “Great Zhou has already settled the marriage alliance with Northern Wei, just waiting for the Imperial Astronomer’s Office to set the date.”

The Empress Dowager sighed deeply and waved her hand, “Enough, I won’t keep you two here. I have a headache and need to lie down.” She instructed Matron Chen, “Keep an eye on the situation at Jingning Palace.”

Seeing this, Qin Wan and Yue Ning had to take their leave. As Matron Chen saw them out, Yue Ning couldn’t help but ask, “Matron Chen, what exactly happened?”

Matron Chen treated Yue Ning and Qin Wan as her people and said, “Well, even if I don’t tell you, rumors will probably start spreading in a few days. The Princess doesn’t want to marry into Northern Wei, and she says she has someone she loves.”

Yue Ning had mentioned this before. Qin Wan continued looking at Matron Chen, who smiled bitterly, “The Princess says she’s fallen in love with Zhao Yu, the Deputy Commander of the Imperial Guards. She says she’s completely devoted to Commander Zhao and won’t marry anyone else. When this servant and the Empress Dowager arrived today, the Empress was indeed whipping the Fifth Princess. The Princess kept saying she’d rather die than marry, and if the Empress Dowager hadn’t arrived, the Empress might have beaten the Princess severely. Right now, the Empress is probably questioning Deputy Commander Zhao.”

Zhao Yu! Yan Zhen had fallen in love with Zhao Yu—

Qin Wan hadn’t expected this. Yue Ning wasn’t familiar with Zhao Yu, but since the Imperial Guards were responsible for palace security, the Princess could see him frequently.

In Kunning Palace, Empress Zhao Shuhua sat in the main seat with a cold expression.

Not far from her, Zhao Yu knelt on the ground, covered in cold sweat.

Zhao Shuhua’s cold eyes narrowed her gaze like a sharp blade suspended over Zhao Yu’s head. “When did the Princess start sending you gifts?”

Sweating profusely, Zhao Yu replied, “It… it was after this servant helped the Princess find that white fox.”

A flash of sharp light crossed Zhao Shuhua’s eyes. This incident happened at the Weishan hunting grounds. She remembered how Yan Zhen had been heartbroken when she lost her little fox, even crying in her arms. She only cheered up after the fox was found – by none other than Zhao Yu. Afterward, Zhao Shuhua rewarded Zhao Yu, as it was merely part of his duty. She thought the matter had long passed, but now she learned that Yan Zhen had developed feelings for Zhao Yu since then, and had even sent him multiple gifts.

Yan Zhen had grown up cherished in Zhao Shuhua’s palm. She never imagined her daughter would one day oppose her like this. Looking at her palm, she could still see the marks from gripping the whip. She had never lost her temper with Yan Zhen before, but today, she had whipped her. She had been negligent! She had focused too much attention on Yan Che, assuming Yan Zhen was carefree with nothing to worry about.

But she had forgotten – Yan Zhen had grown up, and at this age, young love was beginning to bloom. Especially since Yan Zhen was naive about worldly matters. Zhao Yu was talented and handsome, and he had found her precious little fox – how could she not develop feelings for him?

Zhao Shuhua was furious, “Fifth Princess is the precious pearl of myself and His Majesty. With her noble status, how dare you repeatedly accept her gifts?!”

Zhao Yu kept his head lowered, not daring to meet Zhao Shuhua’s gaze.

“Your Majesty, this servant… this servant did tell the Princess not to do such things, but she wouldn’t listen. She said… said she was grateful for me saving her little fox, so it was only right. This servant considered telling the Crown Prince but thought such a small matter might cause misunderstanding, so I didn’t—”

“A small matter?! The Princess personally made you a fragrance pouch, and you still think it’s a small matter?!”

Zhao Shuhua was both angry and heartbroken – angry at Zhao Yu’s dismissive attitude, and heartbroken that Yan Zhen had likely misplaced her affections.

Zhao Yu hurriedly said, “Your Majesty, this servant also felt it inappropriate, but… but these were bestowed by the Princess. This servant dared not refuse, especially since the Princess is naturally lively and innocent. This servant couldn’t bear to refuse.”

Zhao Shuhua narrowed her eyes, “You couldn’t bear to refuse?!”

Zhao Yu swallowed hard. Yan Zhen was lively and innocent but also somewhat willful. When he refused, she would assert her authority as a princess. He could have refused at all costs, but… but he ultimately softened his heart. It was partly because he couldn’t bear to, and partly because, after realizing the Princess’s feelings, his own heart had stirred. He was from a noble family; it wasn’t impossible with the Princess. He admired Yan Zhen’s innocent and unrestrained nature, thinking that if he served loyally for a couple of years and earned a promotion, it wouldn’t be too late to speak up.

Though Yan Zhen had shown her favor several times, she hadn’t explicitly expressed her feelings. So he quietly accepted her goodwill, thinking to wait and see. If Yan Zhen’s feelings were genuine, he could plan for the future later.

But unexpectedly, everything was exposed after just over a month.

Zhao Yu pressed his lips together and straightened his back, “Yes, this servant felt the Princess was pure and innocent, treating everyone and everything with complete sincerity, so this servant neither dared nor could bear to refuse.”

Zhao Shuhua laughed coldly, “Then do you know this is an improper exchange? If others found out, what would become of the Princess’s reputation?!”

Zhao Yu quickly said, “If others found out, this servant would take full responsibility. This servant would marry the Princess with utmost sincerity!”

Zhao Shuhua’s cold laugh intensified, “You want to marry my Zhen’er? You?!”

Zhao Yu felt as if he’d been slapped, but since Yan Zhen was a high-ranking princess, he dared not say much, only, “This servant knows I’m not worthy of the Princess now, but the Princess is still young. If the Princess deems this servant worthy, this servant will serve His Majesty loyally for her sake, striving for the day I can honorably marry the Princess!”

Though Zhao Shuhua appeared fierce, she wanted to test Zhao Yu’s intentions. Hearing his words, she realized he was neither a coward nor a weakling, and had finally said something worth hearing.

If not for Northern Wei, a talented young man like Zhao Yu could have been considered for a prince consort, but…

The compassion and pity in Zhao Shuhua’s heart vanished in an instant. She said coldly, “Do you know about Northern Wei’s proposal for the Princess? Though your background isn’t low, how can you compare to the Crown Prince of Northern Wei?”

Zhao Yu felt a bitter taste in his throat, “Yes, this servant cannot compare to the Northern Wei Crown Prince’s nobility,… but Northern Wei is far away. The Princess is accustomed to the comfort of having her parents and siblings in Great Zhou. How could she marry thousands of miles away to Northern Wei? Northern Wei is cold year-round; the Princess would surely be uncomfortable, not to mention being far from familiar loved ones – how lonely would the Princess be? When news of the Northern Wei Crown Prince’s proposal spread, this servant knew about it. However, this servant believed that Your Majesty and His Majesty love the Princess deeply, and would surely follow the Princess’s wishes in marriage. Therefore, this servant never worried…”

Hearing this, the cold light in Zhao Shuhua’s eyes intensified, “Never worried? Are you using my love for Zhen’er to threaten and force me? If I don’t follow Zhen’er’s wishes, does that make my love false?”

Zhao Yu quickly lowered his head, “This servant wouldn’t dare! Not just this servant, but everyone in Great Zhou would think so.” He raised his head, “Your Majesty, the Princess does not wish to marry into Northern Wei. Please…”

Zhao Yu wanted to ask Zhao Shuhua not to force Yan Zhen, but what right did he have?!

Seeing the pain on Zhao Yu’s face, Zhao Shuhua’s heart finally stirred slightly. If Zhao Yu had remained indifferent while Yan Zhen was resisting so strongly, she might have killed him!

Yan Zhen was her most beloved child. She wanted Yan Zhen to be happy all her life, but she had thought too simply. And Yan Zhen, how could she understand her mother’s thoughts?

Never mind. She might hate her now, but someday she would understand her mother’s good intentions.

“In your family, you’re the only one serving as an official in court now?”

Zhao Shuhua suddenly changed the subject. Zhao Yu looked up, “Yes…”

They had been discussing his matter with the Princess; why ask about this?

Thinking of his family, Zhao Yu grew nervous. The Zhao family was considered nobility, and though they weren’t the same Zhao family as the Empress, they were still a significant clan. However, the family had declined, with most descendants becoming dissolute. Only he supported the family name. The Empress suddenly bringing this up meant…

Zhao Shuhua said coldly, “The Princess’s marriage to Northern Wei is inevitable. If you obey, I won’t touch your position. If you insist on opposing me, I guarantee that you and your family will quickly disappear from the capital.”

Zhao Yu’s back stiffened, and the blood drained from his face.

Though he came from a noble family, achieving his current position at such a young age wasn’t easy. He was the youngest Deputy Commander of the Imperial Guards, with a promising future and the Emperor’s favor. Through him alone, the family maintained its noble status. If he received a promotion in the future, they could become a pillar of the state, perhaps even rivaling the Three Grand Duke Mansions and the Supporting General’s Manor.

If it were just him, that would be one thing, but he carried the hopes of nearly a hundred family members on his shoulders. Should he become the Empress’s enemy? He knew that before the Empress, he had no chance of resistance.

Zhao Yu’s throat tightened. Having achieved his current position through strategy and foresight, he had only one choice in this matter.

Yet thinking of Yan Zhen’s smiling eyes whenever she brought him gifts, his throat filled with bitterness. Though they hadn’t reached the point of confessing their feelings, in his twenty-some years, he had never accepted a fragrance pouch from any other woman.

The choice was clear, but Zhao Yu found it impossible to speak, as if once spoken, his entire life would be overshadowed by these words, unable to peacefully enjoy any future glory and nobility.

Seeing Zhao Yu’s stubborn silence, Zhao Shuhua said, “If you agree to my demands, the future position of Commander of the Imperial Guards will certainly be yours. Moreover, I can grant your clan hereditary privileges!”

This offer was truly tempting. The Commander of the Imperial Guards was the Emperor’s confidant, and commander of the palace guards, and hereditary privileges would ensure his family’s prosperity for generations.

Zhao Yu’s back was taut like a bowstring about to snap. His eyes stared silently at the floor before him. After a long while, he said hoarsely, “What… what would Your Majesty have me do?”

With these words, a mocking smile curved Zhao Shuhua’s lips. Zhao Yu’s tense back slowly relaxed, his head hanging low. He appeared completely dejected as if an invisible hand had forcibly bent his spine.