Early the next morning, Qin Wan headed to the Lin’an Prefecture Office. Upon arrival, she found only Zhan Yang waiting in the courtyard. Having not seen Zhan Yang for many days, Qin Wan noticed he appeared somewhat dejected. Nevertheless, Zhan Yang was pleasantly surprised to see her, “What brings the Princess here?”

Qin Wan smiled, “There hasn’t been any progress in the Jin Prince Manor corpse case these past few days. I suddenly recalled some questionable points in Ning Bu Yi’s case. Well, I’m not one to stay idle, so I came to ask if you could retrieve those case files for me to review again, especially the background information and servant records discovered after the case was closed.”

Zhan Yang hadn’t expected this to be Qin Wan’s purpose. “Princess, why would you…”

Zhan Yang didn’t quite believe that Qin Wan wanted to review the previous case merely out of boredom. While there were indeed some questionable points when the case was closed, it seemed odd that Qin Wan would want to look into it now, half a year later. However, since Qin Wan asked, Zhan Yang naturally wouldn’t refuse.

“The case files have been sealed, but of course, the Princess may review them. Please follow me.”

As Zhan Yang led Qin Wan to the archives, she asked, “Is Magistrate Zheng not in the office?”

“The Magistrate has gone to the palace, though I’m not sure if he’s meeting with His Majesty or the Crown Prince.”

Zhan Yang answered casually. Unlike Magistrate Zheng Bai Shi, Zhan Yang wasn’t involved in court politics. He was just a humble Chief Constable whose concerns were limited to thieves and murder cases.

Qin Wan asked further, “Have there been any cases these past few days?”

Zhan Yang waved his hand, “No, just a few theft cases that have already been resolved.”

Qin Wan felt relieved. With the year-end approaching, if any more incidents occurred in the capital, the common people would likely spend New Year’s in anxiety.

“By the way, what about the Wu family’s eldest son? Any leads?”

Zhan Yang sighed helplessly, “Still no leads. We dispatched quite a few people to investigate over the past two months, but we still couldn’t find any clues.”

Cold cases were the most difficult to solve. Unless someone provided reliable information, it was clear the Wu family had missed the best timing for investigation.

After a pause, Zhan Yang continued, “With no progress in the corpse case, does Prince Cheng intend to continue the investigation?”

Qin Wan had already lost hope in Yan Qi. With the military provisions case report returned, Yan Qi would likely focus all his attention on how to best use this opportunity to strike at the Crown Prince.

“The investigation should continue, though I fear it may become another unsolved case.”

Qin Wan spoke in a low voice. Zhan Yang walked a few steps and said, “Don’t worry, the perpetrator will face justice one day.”

Qin Wan turned to look at Zhan Yang. Though there had been no major cases recently, Zhan Yang appeared somewhat defeated. This was the second time she had heard such words from him. Zhan Yang harbored an iron-like hatred toward criminals, perhaps this was why he had risen to the position of Chief Constable at such a young age.

“But some criminals do escape justice.”

Qin Wan’s mood was low. The more she understood, the stronger this thought became. There were too many people above the law in this world.

Zhan Yang turned to look at Qin Wan, “If that’s the case, then it’s the fault of our office, or rather, the fault of the Great Zhou’s criminal law.”

Qin Wan was surprised, and Zhan Yang had already looked away, “It’s a pity no one has appeared who can change all this.”

Qin Wan gathered herself before understanding Zhan Yang’s meaning. “How would you change it?”

Zhan Yang’s lips tightened slightly, then he smiled bitterly, “Actually, I don’t know. Great Zhou’s rules have been passed down for hundreds of years, they can’t be changed overnight. The royal family, nobility, aristocratic officials, common people, slaves – these classes have been maintained for hundreds of years. Princess, can you imagine a scene where a slave sits in a court of law? Probably not. Even I can’t imagine it, yet our current criminal law is established according to these distinctions.”

Unless the gaps between these classes could be changed, what else could be changed?

Qin Wan understood the implications of Zhan Yang’s words and found herself seeing him in a new light. Though Zhan Yang appeared cold and taciturn, seeming like a rough person, she hadn’t expected him to harbor such thoughts. Qin Wan smiled, “I’m truly impressed by Chief Constable Zhan today, though such words are best kept between us.”

Zhan Yang also smiled, “Of course, I wouldn’t even speak like this before the Magistrate.”

Speaking of Zheng Bai Shi, Qin Wan frowned. Zheng Bai Shi was of the Crown Prince’s faction, now that the Eastern Palace had encountered trouble, how would Zheng Bai Shi act?

“Has Magistrate Zheng mentioned anything about the recent changes in court?”

Zhan Yang shook his head, “I’m just a Chief Constable. Catching thieves and investigating murders is my domain, court matters don’t concern me much. At most, I know something about the Court of Judicature and the Ministry of Justice. Princess, you’re asking about… the Eastern Palace affairs, right?”

Qin Wan smiled bitterly. Everyone knew the Crown Prince was her brother-in-law, so such a quick understanding was normal.

Seeing Qin Wan’s tacit acknowledgment, Zhan Yang continued, “The Magistrate is indeed anxious. After all, he has always advocated for the Crown Prince as heir, and later received much favor from the Crown Prince. But in the current situation, even the Magistrate is helpless.”

Though Zhang Kai De had been imprisoned, the Emperor hadn’t said anything about trying him. No one knew whether he was waiting for Yu Wen Xian’s return or lacked a suitable person to preside over the case. However, no one knew whose names would appear on the next memorial from the northwest, and the current court was in a state of anxiety.

“Have you thought about how far you want to advance in the future?”

Though Zhan Yang’s position wasn’t high, he was still the Chief Constable of Lin’an Prefecture. There were paths available to him in either the Ministry of Justice or the Court of Judicature.

But clearly, Zhan Yang hadn’t thought about these matters. He just smiled, “Perhaps I’m only suited to be a constable.”

As they spoke, they arrived at the archives. Zhan Yang ordered two bailiffs to fetch the case files and invited Qin Wan to rest in the side hall next to the archives. Soon, the two bailiffs brought over more than ten volumes of case files. Looking at the files, Qin Wan asked casually, “Has Master Li visited these days?”

Zhan Yang paused, “Princess, you mean Master Li Mu Yun?”

Qin Wan nodded, and Zhan Yang shook his head, “He hasn’t visited. For the corpse case, the Magistrate always goes to find Master Li.”

Qin Wan nodded and opened the case files. She already knew the witness statements and documents from before the case was closed, so she skimmed through those quickly. However, she carefully examined the post-case documents. Since Ning Bu Yi was the murderer, even though he was dead, his properties and residences should have been confiscated and investigated. Yet as Qin Wan read through, she didn’t find many properties under Ning Bu Yi’s name. “Besides the Ran Mo Painting Gallery, did Ning Bu Yi not have any other residences or properties?”

Though half a year had passed since the case, because Ning Bu Yi’s case had caused quite a stir, Zhan Yang remembered the details very clearly.

“No others. It’s quite strange, but when we questioned both old and new employees at his gallery, none of them knew of any other properties. Including the painters who knew him, they all said they didn’t know of any other residences. He lived in the back courtyard of the painting gallery… Oh right, we also asked Miss Zhong, but she didn’t know either.”

After speaking, Zhan Yang’s eyes also showed some doubt. Though the case was closed, many points remained unclear. This was uncomfortable for both him and Qin Wan, who were dedicated to finding the truth. However, neither the office nor they could indefinitely invest energy into old cases.

Seeing Qin Wan focusing on the pages about Ning Bu Yi’s background, Zhan Yang said, “We investigated Ning Bu Yi’s background very thoroughly, but unfortunately, nobody knows where he went or what he did during those previous years. Princess, have you discovered some new clues in this case?”

Qin Wan looked up and shook her head, “No, I’ve just been thinking about his motive for the murders. At the time, he planned to kill seven people – a seven-person ritual could defy the laws of heaven. Is it possible he wasn’t killing for himself?”

“If not for himself, then for whom? His social circle was very simple.”

This was precisely what was strange. Ning Bu Yi was both a painter and a businessman. To do good business in the capital, one would naturally try to befriend powerful and noble people. Though Ning Bu Yi had some fame and connections with various nobles, he wasn’t particularly close with any family. Why was this?

The more Qin Wan thought about it, the more bizarre it seemed. Every word on these pages seemed to defy common sense.

After flipping through the last volume three or four times, Qin Wan finally sighed, “I can’t see anything at the moment. Perhaps I’m overthinking it.”

Not wanting to waste too much of Zhan Yang’s time, Qin Wan put down the files and prepared to leave.

As Zhan Yang escorted Qin Wan out, he said, “Princess, if you discover any clues or have any questions, you can tell me. I can help you investigate. I’m not entirely satisfied with how this case was closed either.”

Qin Wan sighed, “Alright, I did just suddenly think to come look today. If I discover anything later, I’ll seek your help.”

After Qin Wan said these words and left, Zhan Yang watched her departing figure thoughtfully.

After leaving the Lin’an Prefecture Office, Qin Wan felt somewhat deflated. Could the connection between Li Mu Yun and that residence truly be just a coincidence?

When Qin Wan arrived at Shou Kang Palace again, she found not only Yue Ning and Yan Ze had arrived, but even the Grand Princess was there.

Not having seen the Grand Princess for many days, Qin Wan was delighted and accompanied the Grand Princess and Empress Dowager in conversation for quite a while. The Empress Dowager insisted on playing chess with the Grand Princess, who had no choice but to ask Qin Wan to help. However, even the two of them together were no match for the Empress Dowager.

As they were laughing and talking, Qin Wan turned and noticed a wound on Yue Ning’s hand. She quickly asked, “What happened to your hand?”

Though the wound on Yue Ning’s hand wasn’t large, it still looked alarming. When Qin Wan asked, everyone looked over. Yue Ning could only smile bitterly, “It’s nothing, just accidentally bumped into something.”

Yan Ze, who was nearby, also frowned, “Ning’er? What happened?”

Since Yan Ze couldn’t see, he naturally didn’t know how big or small the wound on Yue Ning’s hand was. The Grand Princess quickly beckoned, “Come here, let me see. Tsk, Wan’er has good eyes, I didn’t notice it earlier. This… looks like it was cut by a knife…”

As Yue Ning was about to pull her hand back, Yan Ze asked, “Did you get hurt while carving the seal yesterday?”

With this question, Yue Ning was suddenly speechless. Yan Ze let out a long sigh, “It must have happened then. I knew something was wrong when you suddenly stopped carving. This is my fault.”

Both the Empress Dowager and Grand Princess looked at Yan Ze. Yue Ning quickly waved her hands, “No, no… Well, a few days ago, I was talking with Third Brother about carving seals in our youth. I wonder if the Empress Dowager and Grandmother remember – when I was little, I had a dagger that I used to make wooden swords, carved dolls, and seals with. But as I grew older, I gave it up. That day, talking with Third Brother about it made me nostalgic, and he immediately gave me a piece of fine jade, but then…”

“And because you’re out of practice, you ended up hurting yourself!”

The Grand Princess scolded irritably. Yan Ze quickly said, “Great-Aunt, don’t blame her. It’s my fault.”

The Grand Princess smiled, “You just keep protecting her. It’s her carelessness. Carving things isn’t the problem – it’s her rough and careless nature.”

Hearing these words, the Empress Dowager’s eyes showed a moment of distraction. “Yes, you all loved playing with knives and carving things when you were young.”

While Yan Ze and Yue Ning’s expressions remained unchanged, the Grand Princess gave the Empress Dowager a deep look. Their eyes met, both filled with sighs of reminiscence.

Yue Ning didn’t want the Grand Princess and Empress Dowager to continue this conversation. She pulled Qin Wan up and said, “The sun looks nice outside. Shall we go for a walk?”

Yue Ning looked at the Empress Dowager, who was holding the Grand Princess’s hand, and said, “I’ll chat with your grandmother. You young ones go ahead. Yan Sui is in his room – take him along. Come back for lunch later…”

Yue Ning naturally agreed, pulling Qin Wan while supporting Yan Ze as they walked out.

Early winter was approaching. Frost could be seen on the grass in the early morning, but now at noon, the warm sun made it perfect for a stroll.

Yue Ning, supporting Yan Ze, said, “Doctor Sun said Third Brother’s eyes should have the medicine cloth removed daily to expose them to bright light – it might stimulate sensitivity.” After speaking, she removed the medicine cloth from Yan Ze’s face. Yan Ze blinked, but his eyes remained still and vacant.

Yue Ning felt disappointed but dared not sigh. These days, she had been fantasizing that perhaps one day when the medicine cloth was removed, Yan Ze would be able to see!

“Ning’er, is your hand alright?”

As Yan Ze spoke, his hand searched to hold Yue Ning’s. In front of Qin Wan, Yue Ning’s face reddened slightly.

Yan Ze seemed to find Yue Ning’s wound and sighed, “You didn’t tell this blind man.”

These words immediately alarmed Yue Ning, who quickly said, “It’s not that I didn’t want to tell you, I just didn’t want you to worry… Alright, alright, next time I definitely won’t hide it from you.”

Yan Ze said somewhat helplessly, “I can’t see. If you don’t tell me, who knows how many things you’ll hide from me.”

Yue Ning felt embarrassed, as this incident had brought up the disadvantages of Yan Ze’s blindness, which was exactly what she didn’t want.

Seeing this, Qin Wan covered her smile and said, “Wait here, I’ll go check on Ninth Prince…”

After speaking, Qin Wan turned to leave. She had intended to go to Yan Sui’s room but suddenly remembered that Yan Sui had wanted to play chess but hadn’t gotten the chance. She turned back to get a chess set from the Empress Dowager’s warm pavilion. However, just as she reached the outside of the pavilion, she heard voices from inside. The Empress Dowager’s voice was heavy with grief, and Qin Wan unconsciously stopped in her tracks.

“In those days, Yan Han loved carving these things the most. He also enjoyed playing with knives and sticks, even more mischievous than Yue Ning was as a child. He even made me a peach wood comb. He made countless seals and jade pendants – I still have two at the bottom of my chest. Later, he became interested in forging swords, ah…”

“When I heard Yue Ning mention it, I thought of him as a child. After all these years, I’ve been dreaming of her these past few days.”

The Empress Dowager’s voice grew heavier with each sentence. The Grand Princess comforted her, “At our age, we tend to think of such things. But don’t worry, His Majesty letting Yan Li inherit the title shows his stance to everyone. No one in court dares to slight Yan Li and his mother. They will live well for the rest of their lives.”

“This matter is just the beginning. I wanted to burn some incense for Yan Han and send him a message, but…”

The Grand Princess sighed, “Better not. If His Majesty learns of this, he’ll surely be displeased. Though they were brothers, His Majesty nearly lost his life because of that incident. If it were me, I couldn’t forgive either. Sparing Yan Li and his mother was already showing exceptional mercy.”

“I understand this reasoning, but they’re all my flesh and blood…”

“Sister-in-law now is not the time to speak of such things. So many years have passed, why stir up trouble? Have you forgotten what happened back then?”

“I understand your meaning. Back then, I only wanted to give Yan Han a cenotaph. He’s buried on Feng Lei Ridge – it was his own doing, but I can’t bear thinking of his wandering spirit with no resting place. Looking back now, His Majesty had just recovered after lying ill for half a year and must have hated his brother deeply. I shouldn’t have brought it up then. Ah, I was also blinded by grief at the time. Fortunately, His Majesty only remained distant from me for a year or two before things improved.”

The Grand Princess said, “His Majesty is a wise ruler. Though that incident was a heavy blow to him, once he ascended the throne, he knew what he should and shouldn’t do. It’s all thanks to your good guidance, Sister-in-law. Otherwise, the late Emperor would surely be restless in his grave!”

Speaking of the late Emperor, the Empress Dowager sighed even more deeply, “The royal family most fears brothers harming each other. The late Emperor’s health was already poor then, and this incident angered him into serious illness. Fortunately, Ling Xi’s medical skills were excellent and saved His Majesty, otherwise… Ah, Yan Han was truly a sinner…”

“Enough, enough, these are all past matters. Let’s not speak of sinners anymore. His Majesty being able to let go of his grudge and allow Yan Li to inherit the title is a good thing. You share a mother’s bond, don’t let old matters cool His Majesty’s heart now. There have been many court matters lately. I hear the Empress is still confined?”

The Empress Dowager made a sound of agreement and began discussing the Empress’s confinement with the Grand Princess. Outside, Qin Wan slowly withdrew.

Leaving the warm pavilion, she encountered Matron Chen. Qin Wan suddenly came to her senses and said, “Please trouble Matron to find a chess set. I’ll play with the Ninth Prince for a while.”

Matron Chen smiled, “Only you have the patience to play with the Ninth Prince. Go ahead, this servant will bring it right away.”

Qin Wan nodded and headed toward Yan Sui’s room. After hearing the Empress Dowager and Grand Princess’s conversation, she thought of the wooden hairpin the恭 Princess Consort had given her. She hadn’t asked at the time, but now she wondered, could it have been made by Prince Gong himself? If Prince Gong was the kind of person who would make peach wood combs for his mother and wooden hairpins for his wife, why did he ultimately choose that path of no return? Qin Wan naturally couldn’t understand the evil thoughts brought by power.

Yan Sui was still practicing calligraphy in his room. The small figure stood on a low stool, his wrist slightly trembling from being held up for so long.

Qin Wan watched from the side for a moment. Yan Sui had been extremely focused, but suddenly seemed to sense Qin Wan’s gaze and turned his head. Seeing Qin Wan at the door, his eyes brightened, but he didn’t immediately come over. Instead, he continued lowering his head to finish writing the remaining characters before putting down his brush and stepping down from the stool. Qin Wan smiled and came forward to meet him, “You’re becoming more and more diligent. Would you like a reward?”

Yan Sui looked expectantly at Qin Wan and suddenly asked, “Has the golden oriole returned?”

Qin Wan’s eyes darkened slightly, but she continued smiling and shook her head, “No, it probably made its home in the mountains.”

Yan Sui didn’t seem disappointed but rather seemed to release a breath as if letting go of something.

Qin Wan smiled and said, “Come, let’s go play chess…”

Hearing this, Yan Sui immediately brightened, his face full of clear joy. Qin Wan led him toward the courtyard and saw Yue Ning supporting Yan Ze as they sat talking on the pavilion’s railing. Qin Wan smiled and led Yan Sui into the pavilion. Matron Chen had already set up the chessboard. Yue Ning smiled, “You won’t play against the Empress Dowager, but you enjoy teaching the Ninth Prince.”

Qin Wan replied, “I can only teach the Ninth Prince now…”

The two sat down, and Qin Wan began carefully explaining to Yan Sui. However, Yan Sui was set in his old ways of playing and didn’t quite understand even after Qin Wan explained twice. Yue Ning listened and smiled without speaking. Yan Ze said, “Just like Yan Li when he was young.”

Matron Chen, standing nearby watching the fun, changed her expression slightly upon hearing this, “Oh my, I didn’t realize until Master Ze mentioned it, but the Ninth Prince is… This servant remembers Young Master Li was also as beautiful as a jade doll when he was little.”

Yue Ning laughed, “Yan Li was indeed handsome, I thought he looked more like a girl when he was young.” Yue Ning examined Yan Sui, seeming to recall what Yan Li looked like as a child. After a moment, Yue Ning nodded, “It’s true. I heard Grandmother say that all Yan family boys share three similar features, especially their eyes.”

Matron Chen smiled, “Indeed, the late Emperor and the princes were the same.”

Qin Wan didn’t pay particular attention to their conversation, focusing instead on teaching Yan Sui carefully. The golden oriole was already dead, but she had lied to Yan Sui. Seeing how much Yan Sui trusted her made her feel quite uncomfortable. She only hoped Yan Sui would quickly learn chess and develop new interests to forget about that bird.

Yue Ning added, “Speaking of which, it’s interesting how close Yan Li and the Ninth Prince are.”

Hearing this, Yan Sui seemed to think of something and suddenly asked Qin Wan quietly, “When will he come to the palace?”

Qin Wan was stunned for a moment before realizing Yan Sui was asking about Yan Li. Remembering that Yan Li had promised to bring Yan Sui a reward, she understood what was on Yan Sui’s mind. Qin Wan’s eyes twinkled as she said, “Young Master Li is very busy these days, but I guess he’ll come to the palace tomorrow.”

Yan Sui’s brows furrowed slightly as he said quietly, “Liar—”

Qin Wan laughed, then coaxed him in a low voice, “What does Your Highness want? Tell me, and I’ll bring it to the palace for you?”

Yan Sui shook his head stubbornly and correctly placed a black piece. Qin Wan fondly patted his head, “Your Highness, don’t worry, I won’t break my promise.”

Yan Sui gave a light snort and said nothing more.

After lunch, the Grand Princess prepared to take her leave. Seeing this, Yue Ning and Yan Ze also prepared to leave the palace. Qin Wan planned to go out to find Yan Chi, so she also joined them heading toward the palace gates. However, just as they reached Zhengyang Gate, Qin Wan saw a familiar figure coming toward the palace – it was Wei Qi Zhi, whom she hadn’t seen for many days!

Wei Qi Zhi also hadn’t expected to meet Qin Wan’s group here and quickly bowed to the Grand Princess first.

The Grand Princess, sitting in her sedan chair, smiled and asked Wei Qi Zhi, “Young Wei, what brings you to the palace today?”

Qin Wan nodded to Wei Qi Zhi. He glanced over Yue Ning and Yan Ze, particularly noticing Yue Ning’s hand supporting Yan Ze, before saying, “I’m here on my aunt’s orders to visit. I didn’t expect to meet Your Highness. It’s been many days, but you’re still as spirited as ever!”

The Grand Princess laughed with pleasure. Wei Qi Zhi had visited the An Yang Marquis Manor several times, so she naturally knew that his aunt was Consort Wan. “Where have you been lately? Why haven’t you visited the manor?”

Wei Qi Zhi glanced at Yue Ning, “I went north. I’ll visit your manor another day. I acquired some excellent white fox furs – I’ll bring them to you then!”

The Grand Princess was very pleased, “Good, good, good. Then I’ll be waiting for your visit. I won’t delay you now – go see your aunt quickly!”

Wei Qi Zhi bowed again before taking his leave. As Qin Wan’s group continued outward, Yan Ze said quietly, “Who was that…”

“He’s Consort Wan’s nephew. Both Wan’er and Ning’er know him – he’s been a guest at our manor,” the Grand Princess explained, then smiled. “Though the court is unstable now, the Duke Song’s household remains patient. Though I wonder why Consort Wan summoned young Wei to the palace. With his temperament, it would be a pity if he doesn’t enter court service, yet also a pity if he does…”

Yue Ning frowned, “Grandmother, his ambitions lie elsewhere. Don’t worry about it.”

The Grand Princess glanced at Yue Ning, “Let’s hope so. Since last year, Consort Wan has been behaving herself.”

When Song Rou was arranged to marry Yue Jia, it was Consort Wan who had advised it. After what happened later, Consort Wan naturally knew she had touched the Grand Princess’s reverse scale. She became much more docile afterward. Since the Grand Princess returned to the capital, they had only encountered each other twice at banquets, and seeing her behave so cautiously, the Grand Princess hadn’t made things difficult for her.

After walking a few more steps, Yue Ning asked, “Grandmother, how long will the Empress’s confinement last?”

The Grand Princess’s smile faded as she sighed, “That I cannot say.”

As they spoke, the group had already passed through Zhengyang Gate. Just as they were about to exit Zhenghua Gate, the Grand Princess suddenly looked back and said quietly, “If it weren’t for Sister-in-law still in this palace, I wouldn’t want to return at all…”

Yue Ning and Qin Wan exchanged glances but said nothing.

Thinking of Yan Sui, after leaving the palace gates, Qin Wan first went to the West Market. The market was lined with shops, and Qin Wan bought dozens of small trinkets unavailable in the palace, placing them in her carriage before heading to Prince Rui’s manor. However, thinking that Yan Chi probably hadn’t left court yet, she detoured to the Qin residence in the west.

Old Man Han was delighted to see Qin Wan after many days. Qin Wan gave two small toys to Er Bao and then sat with Old Man Han in the main hall to talk.

“The accounts that Princess requested Han Dong to compile are ready. This list shows all income from the past half year, as well as all liquid assets. The situation of other shops is also listed here…”

After a slight pause, Old Man Han hesitantly asked, “Princess, it’s not yet year-end. May I ask why you need these now?”

Qin Wan glanced over the documents. Though these properties belonged to Second Master Qin Yi and his wife, they were indeed substantial. Hearing the question, Qin Wan replied, “My wedding date with Prince Rui has been set. These days, Aunt is preparing my dowry. I’ve been thinking, as a daughter of the Qin family, it wouldn’t be right to take all of Father’s properties. So I plan to return the properties to my Uncle and Aunt. As for my dowry, what I’ve saved myself should be enough. Uncle and Aunt will likely add to it, and I won’t refuse their additions, but I shouldn’t take all of the Second Branch’s properties.”

Old Man Han’s expression changed slightly, “Princess, actually… these properties were all Master’s. It would be proper even if you took them all.”

Qin Wan could only smile bitterly. If she were the Ninth Miss, that would be fine, but she wasn’t. In this past year, just the gifts from the Grand Princess and rewards from the Empress Dowager and Emperor were substantial. Those things combined were enough for her dowry, and many of these properties were Qin family ancestral holdings – she truly couldn’t bring herself to take them.

“Though Uncle and Aunt don’t mind, once I marry into Prince Rui’s manor, I won’t be a daughter of the Qin family anymore. Uncle may not say anything, but I must observe proper etiquette. Uncle Han, don’t worry. Han Dong will certainly continue working at the shops, and I’ll still provide for your retirement. You and Er Bao can continue living here.”

Old Man Han quickly waved his hands, “That’s not what I meant. Ah, when Miss marries into the Prince’s manor, there will be many occasions requiring money. Miss should think more of herself.”

Old Man Han was so concerned he forgot to address her as Princess. Qin Wan nodded reassuringly, “I understand all this, don’t worry.”

Qin Wan put away the accounts and asked, “Has there been any trouble with Young Master Sun these past few days?”

At this, Old Man Han immediately replied, “Miss, I was going to report this even if you hadn’t asked. These past few days, Young Master Sun has been landscaping the manor. He dug two pools, saying he wanted to make lotus ponds. I helped find the workers, and Young Master Sun has been supervising personally. When I went by yesterday afternoon, the basic shape was complete. We’re just waiting to move in the prepared Taihu rocks. It should be finished in half a month.”

Qin Wan frowned slightly, “Did Young Master Sun mention if he plans to stay long in the capital?”

Old Man Han smiled, “Though he hasn’t said, it looks like he plans to stay long-term. Why else would he put in so much effort?”

Qin Wan’s heart sank. Unable to sit still, she stood up, “I’ll go take a look.”

The two residences were separated by just one street. When Qin Wan arrived at the Shen residence, the main gate was half-open, and she could faintly hear people talking in the courtyard. When Bai Ying went forward to announce their arrival, Sun Mu Qing himself came to open the door. He was overjoyed to see Qin Wan, having not expected her visit. “Princess, what brings you here!”

Qin Wan smiled, “I was visiting Uncle Han, so I came to see you as well.”

“Please come in, Princess… I apologize for the mess in the courtyard right now. Please follow me to the flower hall…”

Sun Mu Qing called over a young servant and ordered tea, then led Qin Wan through the corridor. In the central courtyard, the original potted landscapes had been moved away. A square pool had been carved into the ground, with huge stones already lining its sides. The pool wasn’t yet filled with water, and two craftsmen were measuring its dimensions.

Sun Mu Qing smiled, “I was living quite comfortably in this residence, but living alone, there were too many rooms. So I thought about changing the landscape. I demolished two empty rooms and added two pools – one here in the front courtyard and another outside the study. Would you like to see it?”

Looking at the familiar courtyard, Qin Wan nodded somewhat absent-mindedly, “Alright—”

Sun Mu Qing walked ahead, occasionally glancing back. Seeing Qin Wan’s dazed expression, he assumed she also liked the courtyard’s layout. “It’s very messy now, but once everything is set up, I’ll invite Princess to visit again. This way, please…”

Passing through a moon gate, they saw that two wing rooms that had been adjacent to Shen Yi’s former study had been demolished, replaced by another empty pool in the ground.

The study’s windows directly faced this empty pool. If lotus flowers were planted there, it would make a beautiful scene in summer.

Qin Wan walked slowly, lost in thought.

She clearly remembered how, before the incident, her father would sit alone in the study every night. When he occasionally walked out, he would only stand under the corridor and stare blankly at the courtyard’s sky, emanating a suppressed, stifling anxiety that still made her uneasy to recall.

Was Father already thinking about fleeing with the family then?

Qin Wan shook her head. No, that’s wrong. At that time, Father surely hadn’t made up his mind yet. What made him decide was his last meeting with Prince Jin. But why did that final meeting with Prince Jin cause Father to panic? What had Father done before meeting Prince Jin?

The harder Qin Wan tried to remember, all she could see was her father’s anxious expression. What else he did or said during those days became increasingly blurry. She was lost in thought for so long that Sun Mu Qing noticed something was wrong, “Princess? What’s wrong?”

Qin Wan shook her head. Sun Mu Qing said curiously, “Last time Princess visited, you also seemed to space out for a while.”

Qin Wan smiled to cover her thoughts, “It’s nothing. I was just wondering if you’re planning to stay long-term in the capital…”

Qin Wan had repeatedly told Sun Mu Qing that the capital wasn’t a place to stay long, and he had agreed. Yet now he had gone back on his word…

Sun Mu Qing showed some embarrassment, too preoccupied to analyze Qin Wan’s earlier thoughts.

Sun Mu Qing gestured, “Let’s talk in the flower hall.”

Qin Wan nodded, taking one last look at the study before moving on. Sun Mu Qing explained, “Firstly, the Young Master’s eyes aren’t better yet, and secondly… I don’t have any urgent matters at Medicine Valley now. I’m even thinking about opening a medical clinic here in the capital to treat people.”

Qin Wan drew a sharp breath at these words. Not leaving was one thing, but opening a clinic! Once opened, the clinic would likely be overwhelmed with patients. How could Sun Mu Qing leave then?!

Qin Wan barely controlled herself from speaking out, though her expression had already turned quite unpleasant. Sun Mu Qing shrank his neck slightly as he looked at Qin Wan, “Princess, I promised you before, but… but I can’t bear to leave this residence. A few days ago, I discovered several old items that weren’t destroyed in the fire… and I just…”

Qin Wan’s steps suddenly halted, “What did you find?”

Sun Mu Qing was startled by Qin Wan’s sudden sharp question, “A pestle, some books, a set of short knives… and some other odds and ends. Anyway, all things that weren’t destroyed in that great fire. Several items belonged to my little martial sister. Ah, it’s a pity I never visited here while she was alive.”

Qin Wan’s heart clenched painfully. She had known this residence would retain some old items, but she had never come to retrieve them. Passing by many times without entering, she lacked the courage to face it. She hadn’t expected Sun Mu Qing to do all this.

“You… you were… good to your little martial sister…”

Sun Mu Qing scratched his head embarrassedly, “She was my only little martial sister.”

“Where are those things? Can you show me?”

Qin Wan’s eyes showed emotion, seemingly moved by his actions. Sun Mu Qing smiled, “Of course! We found quite a few things when first renovating the house. I didn’t let them throw anything away and kept everything that was still recognizable. Only stone and iron items were still visible though. A few days ago when digging the pools, we found two more items, including a small pestle. That pestle is from Medicine Valley – I recognized it. I felt quite sad then. Ah, that’s why I really can’t bear to leave.”

Sun Mu Qing led Qin Wan to a side room where miscellaneous items were stored. When the door opened, they saw the room filled with various items: stone benches and tables, flower-planting hoes, two fire-blackened tall cabinets, and a jumble of iron and porcelain items. The great fire had burned down most of the Shen manor, but iron, stone, and porcelain items weren’t easily destroyed. Though many porcelain pieces were broken, Sun Mu Qing had collected all that weren’t too damaged. The room full of smoke-stained, fire-marked old items made Qin Wan’s eyes sting. She had to bite her lip to keep from crying.

“Look, this is the small pestle.”

Sun Mu Qing opened one of the blackened cabinets that could still store items and pulled out a pestle.

The pestle was made of polished obsidian. It had been worn smooth and shiny by Qin Wan’s use, and even after the great fire and being buried in soil for many days, it hadn’t lost its luster. When Qin Wan took the pestle, its familiar feel gave her a sense of déjà vu.

For a moment, she felt she was still Shen Wan.

“I have a pestle like this too, currently kept at Medicine Valley. I knew right away it belonged to little martial sister. There’s also a set of short knives here that should be hers too. Little martial sister used to study human bones, and those knives could dissect corpses.”

Then Sun Mu Qing couldn’t help adding, “These tools would suit Princess well, but since they were little martial sister’s things, I should keep them properly.”

Even though Sun Mu Qing was now on good terms with Qin Wan, he couldn’t bear to give away Shen Wan’s belongings. Qin Wan felt her heart fill with bitterness, hardly willing to let go of the small pestle she held.

“There’s also an inkstone, white jade paperweight, and a set of brushes – I’m not sure if they belonged to little martial sister or Uncle Shen. And several pieces of jewelry that must have been Aunt Shen’s. Ah, when I came to the capital this time, I wanted to pay my respects to them, but… I’ve been thinking about setting up a cenotaph for them. It would be good to have a place to remember them by, with some of their old belongings.”

“Do it,” Qin Wan suddenly said softly.

Sun Mu Qing abruptly turned to look at Qin Wan. Previously, she hadn’t liked him talking about the Shen family’s past. He understood she meant well, but today he couldn’t help bringing it up. He had expected her to caution him again, but surprisingly, she even agreed to the cenotaph!

Seeing Sun Mu Qing’s astonished expression, Qin Wan had to explain, “I didn’t approve before, but… I’m somewhat moved. Didn’t you say I resemble your little martial sister? When you set up the cenotaph, why not include me? Let me do my part for them. I… I learned much of my autopsy skills from Master Shen’s writings. He was like half a master to me. Besides you, there’s probably no one else in this world who would build a tomb for them. Having one more person to pay respects might bring them comfort in the afterlife.”

Sun Mu Qing’s eyes widened, overflowing with joy…

“Princess… this… this is wonderful!”

Qin Wan couldn’t directly face Sun Mu Qing’s gaze. She turned slightly, pretending to examine the room full of items, and added, “You’re unfamiliar with the capital. Why don’t you let me handle this? I’ll have Uncle Han find an auspicious spot outside the city. Once everything is arranged, you can bring these items there. How does that sound?”

Sun Mu Qing indeed wasn’t skilled at arranging such matters, and making a grand display of establishing a tomb for Shen Yi would be impossible. With Qin Wan’s help, everything could be properly arranged. He nodded eagerly, “That would be excellent! Thank you so much, Princess!”

Qin Wan’s lips moved, but no words came out. She should be the one thanking him.

Taking a deep breath, Qin Wan finally composed herself, “It’s nothing, leave it to me. However… we probably can’t engrave anything on the tombstone.”

Sun Mu Qing’s smile faded, “Ah, then… what should we do…”

Qin Wan forced a slight smile, “Why don’t we use blank stones for now, and engrave them later?”

Shen Yi was a condemned criminal of Great Zhou. A tomb outside the city had a high chance of being discovered. Engraving names would likely bring disaster upon themselves and implicate Qin Wan. Sun Mu Qing understood this, but since Qin Wan mentioned engraving later, he quickly asked, “Can we engrave them in the future?”

Qin Wan nodded, “Definitely.”

These four words seemed like a promise, immediately putting Sun Mu Qing at ease. He showed an apologetic expression, “This is dangerous. I hope everything goes smoothly, otherwise I’ll have caused trouble for Princess.”

Qin Wan couldn’t even manage a smile. She waved her hand and reluctantly returned the pestle to Sun Mu Qing, “This…”

Sun Mu Qing quickly took it and placed it back in the tall cabinet.

The room full of old items carried memories of past days, weighing heavily on Qin Wan’s heart. She suddenly couldn’t bear to stay longer and hurried out. Sun Mu Qing followed behind her. Qin Wan suddenly turned back and asked, “Did you find any books or documents in the residence?”

Sun Mu Qing shook his head, “Books and documents must have all turned to ash. Why does Princess ask?”

Qin Wan could only say, “I greatly admired Master Shen’s expertise in criminal cases and wondered if any writings remained.”

Sun Mu Qing scratched his head, “I haven’t seen anything like that…”

Qin Wan didn’t ask further and didn’t plan to stay longer in the residence. She followed Sun Mu Qing back to the flower hall, had just one cup of tea, and then took her leave.

Sun Mu Qing escorted Qin Wan to the door and watched her carriage leave before turning back. As he walked, he thought about how fortunate he was to meet someone as kind as Qin Wan, who would help him despite knowing the great risk.

Qin Wan returned to the Qin residence and immediately summoned Uncle Han to arrange the tomb matters. “Best not to choose Qi Wu Mountain. Find somewhere a bit farther from it. We need three tomb sites – no, make it two, with one for a couple to be buried together. The feng shui must be good. Better to find strangers to do the work. This must be kept secret. Send word to me once everything is ready.”

Uncle Han was puzzled, “Miss is helping a friend?”

Qin Wan nodded, “A very important friend.”

Given Qin Wan’s words, Uncle Han dared not take it lightly. “Don’t worry, we’ll handle this well. We’ll have an answer within five days at most.”

“No need to rush. After the tombs are built, I’ll bring my friend there. My friend’s parents’ remains can’t be found – we’re just setting up cenotaphs. Make sure this is clear.”

Uncle Han asked, “Then should we prepare the tombstones in advance… who…”

“Use blank stones for now,” Qin Wan answered decisively. “No engravings.”

Uncle Han was slightly surprised but didn’t say more. “Yes, I understand.”

After giving instructions, Qin Wan still felt she hadn’t left that room full of old belongings. Even after talking so much with Uncle Han, her heart still ached terribly. Of the twenty-four members of the Shen family, their bones now lay who knows where, yet she could only help establish a cenotaph for her parents. The truth behind her father’s case remained hidden in the fog. It felt like a knife constantly grinding at her heart.

Qin Wan took a deep breath, “I’m leaving now. When everything is ready, send someone to find me at the Marquis Manor.”

“I understand. Don’t worry—”

Qin Wan left the Qin residence and headed straight for Prince Rui’s manor.

At Prince Rui’s manor, Yan Chi had indeed not returned yet. Qin Wan went directly to the waterside pavilion.

Since leaving the Qin residence, Qin Wan hadn’t spoken a word. Now her expression carried traces of desolation, making Bai Ying extremely worried.

“Miss, what’s wrong?”

Qin Wan waved her hand, “Nothing. Let me sit alone for a while.”

Qin Wan sat alone behind Yan Chi’s desk, not even caring what was on it, just staring straight out the window at the desolate early winter lake scene. As she stared, her nose began to sting and her eyes grew wet. Her lips pressed tighter and tighter as she struggled to hold back tears. Memories of her family of three’s warmth came flooding back, filling Qin Wan’s heart with both grief and anger. How could she have imagined, over a year ago, that her family would meet such a fate?

Her mother came from a declined official family, was kind-hearted, and couldn’t bear to step on even an ant. Yet in the end, she had watched helplessly as her mother lay in a pool of blood. Even today, she could still remember her mother’s heart-wrenching pain as she looked at her. Even in her final moment, she had tried to embrace her, to shield her from the rain of arrows. Qin Wan’s hands trembled at her sides. The pain of that arrow piercing her heart seemed to spread again in waves. She could even hear the hoofbeats of the Imperial Guard surrounding them. A roar filled Qin Wan’s mind as she seemed to fall into a world of blood and fire, unable to distinguish reality from dreams—

When Yan Chi returned from outside, he knew Qin Wan had arrived and had been waiting for him for nearly half an hour. He strode quickly toward the waterside pavilion. Just as he reached the door, he saw Bai Ying standing outside with a grave expression. Yan Chi frowned, “What happened?”

Bai Ying shook her head, “Nothing serious, just that Miss is not in a good mood.”

Yan Chi frowned and took two steps into the pavilion, but stopped in his tracks as soon as he entered.

Qin Wan had somehow fallen asleep on his desk, but even from this distance, he could see her shoulders trembling slightly. Yan Chi’s heart tightened and he quickly went to her. Though his footsteps were light, normally Qin Wan would have reacted immediately. But now, even when he reached her side, she showed no response. Worried, Yan Chi grabbed her shoulders and helped her up.

As he lifted her, Yan Chi was stunned as if struck by lightning.

Qin Wan’s eyes were closed as if sleeping, but her face was covered in tears, her brows trembling – she was caught in a nightmare.

“Wan’er?” Yan Chi panicked. He lifted her into his arms, but even such a large movement didn’t wake her. He had no time to question Bai Ying and strode quickly to the inner chamber. Though he had intended to lay her on the bed, when he reached it, he couldn’t bear to put her down. Instead, he sat on the edge of the bed with her in his lap, holding her protectively in his arms.

Qin Wan’s brows were knitted, tears falling one after another. Yan Chi’s heart ached terribly. When had he ever seen Qin Wan cry? Even in the most urgent life-or-death moments, she remained calm. What could have happened? Why was she like this?

Yan Chi felt both heartache and anger rising. Had something happened today that he didn’t know about? Had someone bullied her?

Yet as soon as these questions arose, Yan Chi instinctively dismissed them. Qin Wan was someone who could remain unmoved even if a mountain collapsed before her. No matter how others might bully her, they couldn’t make her cry like this. Only something involving her closest loved ones could hurt her so deeply.

Yan Chi suddenly thought of Qin Wan’s long-cherished wish… that secret buried in her heart that she couldn’t be honest about even with him.

Yan Chi’s heart twisted in pain. Though he usually couldn’t stand women crying, now seeing Qin Wan’s silent tears, he felt as if a knife was grinding at his heart. He carefully wiped her tears, and seeing her reddened eyes, he lowered his head to kiss away her falling tears. The salty, bitter taste spread on his tongue. Yan Chi held Qin Wan tightly, his cheek gently brushing against hers, wanting to give her the most intimate comfort.

“Mother…”

Suddenly, Yan Chi heard a murmur. His back stiffened as he heard Qin Wan call “Mother,” the words tender and grieving, immediately drawing out the sorrow in his own heart. He finally realized she was dreaming of her mother.

Both pitying and heartbroken, Yan Chi quickly kissed her eyes and cheeks several more times. His embrace was broad and warm. Soon, Qin Wan murmured again.

Yan Chi listened closely—

“Father…”

Yan Chi felt his heart was about to shatter!

Qin Wan was always calm and composed, occasionally showing a gentle and coquettish daughter’s manner, but “fragile” was never a word associated with her. Yet now, Qin Wan’s face was covered in tears, her body trembling and eyes crimson, completely different from her usual cool demeanor. Yan Chi wished he could enter her dream and take all her pain upon himself. He silently kissed away all her tears. After who knows how long, the person in his arms finally stopped trembling and unconsciously curled closer to him. A moment later, she stopped crying. Yan Chi felt his throat constricting but didn’t dare wake her. After what seemed like two incense sticks’ worth of time, Qin Wan slowly opened her tear-filled eyes.

Seeing Yan Chi’s face and finding herself in his arms, Qin Wan seemed unable to distinguish between dream and reality.

Yan Chi lowered his head and kissed her lips, “Wan’er, you had a nightmare.”

Qin Wan remained dazed. A moment later her pupils suddenly contracted as if remembering the scene from her dream. She bit her lip and her eyes immediately reddened again, but now that she was awake, she couldn’t let tears fall in front of Yan Chi. Yan Chi saw the tears gathering in her eyes, making them gleam while reflecting the grief and fear that hadn’t yet dissipated from her gaze.

Yan Chi touched her wet eyes with one hand, “What did you dream about? Your crying broke my heart.”

Qin Wan stared blankly at Yan Chi, light flickering in her eyes. Suddenly, she threw her arms around his neck and buried her face deep in his neck. Yan Chi froze, feeling something wet and hot fall on his neck. He closed his eyes – all he could do was hold her tighter.

“It’s alright now, it’s alright. I’m back, I’m here.”

Yan Chi comforted Qin Wan in an unprecedentedly soft and low voice, “Whatever you dreamed about, it’s over now, Wan’er, it’s all over.”

Low sobs escaped Qin Wan’s throat – she couldn’t hold back anymore. Yan Chi felt his neck becoming wet and his heart ached again. Words of comfort seemed inadequate, and he didn’t know what Qin Wan had dreamed about. He gently stroked her back, repeatedly saying “I’m here.” After about half an hour, Qin Wan seemed to stop crying. She lay limply in his arms as if all her strength had been drained, occasionally nuzzling his neck slightly.

Yan Chi’s tight heart gradually calmed as she settled. Seeing her curled in his arms and worried she might be uncomfortable, Yan Chi tightened his arms, about to turn and lay her on the couch. But Qin Wan, who had been quiet all this time, suddenly spoke in a hoarse voice, “Yan Chi, I have a secret.”