Seeing the complex and solemn expression on Qin Wan’s face, Lu Youxin hurriedly asked, “What’s wrong, Wan’er?”

Qin Wan came back to her senses and shook her head, “Nothing, I just hadn’t expected it. Looking at the Ninth Young Master, I find him remarkably similar to Fifth Uncle.”

Lu Youxin sighed, “Indeed. Apart from the few elders who know the situation, no one else has questioned this point. Jinghe’s appearance aside, his entire bearing is the result of careful guidance from Fifth Brother and his wife. He’s exactly like Fifth Brother. Because of this, when the two stand together, they truly appear like real father and son.”

Qin Wan quickly asked, “At what age was the Ninth Young Master brought to the family?”

Lu Youxin sighed, “He was brought here at three years old.”

“Three years old? If he was three, how could others not know?”

At this question, Lu Youxin let out a long sigh, “Actually, Fifth Brother and his wife had a child, a boy. Fifth Brother’s health was weak, and though they finally had this child, he was born with deficiencies. For many years afterward, despite consulting doctors and seeking treatments, his condition never improved. By the time he was about two years old, doctors came to examine him and said the child would live for at most another half year. At first, Fifth Brother and his wife were devastated. Then, watching the child grow increasingly emaciated, they knew the situation was beyond help. Additionally, the doctor treating Fifth Brother said he would struggle to have more children, so before that child passed away, someone suggested they adopt a son.”

“The elderly used to say that those who lacked the fortune of having children could adopt a child whose destiny aligned with theirs. This way, the child would bring fortune in descendants to the family. When Fifth Brother heard this, he became interested. During the child’s final six months, Fifth Brother and his wife took him to Huzhou, telling others they were seeking medical treatment there. Later, the child passed away in Huzhou. By then, Fifth Brother had already arranged to find Jinghe within the clan. Jinghe had excellent birth signs and was considered a lucky star. Fifth Brother didn’t want others to know about his firstborn’s death, so he substituted Jinghe for his child. Therefore, to outsiders, Jinghe remained the Fifth Brother’s biological son. This arrangement also benefited Jinghe greatly. After adopting him, it seemed Jinghe truly had a destined connection with Fifth Brother and his wife, who grew increasingly fond of him. Later, as Fifth Brother’s health remained poor and his wife struggled to conceive again, Fifth Brother stopped worrying about it. After all these years, it’s fair to say Jinghe is like Fifth Brother’s own son.”

Qin Wan listened and asked, “What kind of family did the Ninth Young Master come from?”

Lu Youxin quickly replied, “Jinghe came from a distant branch of the Lu family. Though a branch family, they were already five generations removed, sharing only the Lu surname. His father died early, leaving only a widowed mother to raise him. When they found him, they pitied his difficult circumstances. After adopting him, his widowed mother was provided for, and she still lives well in Lanzhou today.”

Qin Wan pondered this information briefly before nodding, “So the Ninth Young Master has such a background.”

Lu Youxin sighed, “Yes, though not many know about this, the clan elders are aware. In our family, we place great importance on bloodlines. Making Jinghe the heir would be impossible. Among the younger generation, I never considered Jingcheng. As for Jingxiu and Jingyun, honestly, neither is perfect. Jingxiu is rash and lacks steadiness, sometimes acting on impulse, which is forbidden for the head of the Lu family. Jingyun, on the other hand, is too timid. If faced with major challenges, he would struggle to bear such responsibility. So I’m quite worried, especially since the Third and Fourth Branches dote on them excessively, and I can’t properly discipline them in daily life.”

Hearing Lu Youxin’s words, Qin Wan could imagine her difficulties and felt sympathetic, “Aunt has truly had it hard these many years. Since the Third and Fourth Branches have such ambitions, you might as well declare that if the two young masters harbor such thoughts, they should know to cultivate themselves properly. Otherwise, Aunt would have no choice but to choose someone else.”

Lu Youxin sighed, “Over these years, there have been too many conflicts among the Lu family’s direct line, and several branches have grown somewhat distant. But you’re right, I should give it serious consideration.”

Qin Wan nodded, and having matters on her mind, didn’t speak further with Lu Youxin. Shortly after, Lu Youxin took her leave.

After Lu Youxin left, Qin Wan fell into deep thought. Ninth Young Master Lu Jinghe wasn’t Fifth Branch’s biological son. This raised concerns about the Spring Palace catalog incident. If Lu Jingcheng knew about this and developed feelings for Lu Jinghe, it wasn’t impossible. Additionally, since Lu Jingcheng was behind the Fifth Branch’s mine disaster, Lu Jinghe had more reason and justification to kill. But how did Lu Jingcheng learn of Lu Jinghe’s background?

“Fuling, ask Bai Feng to come in…”

Fuling, who was attending nearby, showed a slight change in expression at these words, hesitating momentarily before going out.

Bai Feng usually waited in the outer corridor. Fuling knocked on the door, and Bai Feng quickly opened it. Seeing Fuling outside, Bai Feng was surprised, but Fuling kept her eyes lowered and said, “The Princess needs to see you…”

After saying this, Fuling turned and left, and Bai Feng followed.

Upon entering the inner chamber, Qin Wan said, “Investigate the Fifth Branch’s Ninth Young Master as quickly as possible. I now know his background is somewhat unusual. To find out where his widowed mother lives, what his daily preferences are – in short, the more you can learn about him, the better.”

Hearing this, Bai Feng quickly nodded, “Very well, I’ll give orders right away, though sending messages to Lanzhou will take several days.”

Qin Wan nodded, “I understand. Investigate what you can here while looking into Lanzhou.”

Bai Feng acknowledged and turned to leave.

Qin Wan rested her chin on her hand, frowning, unsure whether her suspicions were correct.

Fuling asked somewhat puzzled, “Miss, why are you suddenly investigating the Ninth Young Master? Do you suspect him?”

Qin Wan sighed, “I’m not sure. I know too little about him. It’s better to know more.”

Fuling responded with an “Oh” and said nothing more. Qin Wan thought for a while longer before lying down.

The next day, Lu Boyi’s medicine was ready. Early in the morning, Lu Boyi started the new prescription. Qin Wan and Lu Youxin discussed and decided to check Lu Boyi’s pulse again in the evening. If his pulse was stable, they could prepare for acupuncture.

In the evening, Qin Wan arrived early at Wutong Court and spoke briefly with Lu Youxin before Lu Boyi and his son arrived.

Learning of their arrival, Qin Wan said to Lu Youxin, “Since they’re both here, let them both come in. It’s fine.”

Lu Youxin naturally agreed happily and called both Lu Boyi and his son inside.

After his previous consultation, Lu Boyi had told Lu Jinghe that the doctor was a young woman. Upon entering the inner chamber, Lu Jinghe was startled when he saw Qin Wan… Lu Boyi naturally hadn’t extensively praised Qin Wan’s beauty, only saying she was a young lady of extraordinary bearing, but now seeing Qin Wan, Lu Jinghe realized Lu Boyi’s words had been far too reserved.

Lu Boyi nodded in greeting to Qin Wan, and Lu Youxin said, “I’ve asked Miss Qin to stay in the mansion to treat Fifth Brother. Fifth Brother’s illness is of utmost importance, and Miss Qin’s medical skills are exceptional. I hope after this treatment, Fifth Brother’s condition will improve…”

Lu Boyi quickly said, “With the New Year approaching, many people are busy returning home for the festivities. We’re truly grateful that Miss Qin agreed to stay at the mansion.”

Qin Wan smiled and said, “I have no family, and now that Madam has taken me in, I should be the one expressing gratitude. Fifth Master, please sit down for the pulse examination.”

Qin Wan didn’t rise to greet them. She sat there without makeup, wearing plain but fine silk clothes. The composure in her expression highlighted her noble and distinguished bearing. Looking at Qin Wan like this, Lu Jinghe felt a faint suspicion in his heart, but since he was only here to accompany Lu Boyi for his medical examination, he naturally only needed to stand by.

Qin Wan first took Lu Jinghe’s pulse, then asked, “How do you feel after taking the decoction today, Fifth Master?”

Lu Boyi touched his chest, “I didn’t feel much in the morning, but by evening, the dizziness had lessened considerably, and the chest pain had also eased somewhat. I haven’t noticed much else yet.”

Having only taken the medicine for one day, such quick results were unexpected, and hearing this, Qin Wan was quite satisfied.

Qin Wan then said, “After checking Fifth Master’s pulse just now, I found it stronger than yesterday. To avoid wasting time, I plan to perform acupuncture tomorrow. What do you think?”

Lu Boyi smiled, “Of course, I’ll follow Miss Qin’s guidance. After that day’s consultation, when Miss Qin said my condition was still treatable, I finally had a peaceful night’s sleep.”

Though Lu Boyi was an elder, he unconsciously used humble language before Qin Wan. Hearing this, Qin Wan accepted it naturally and continued, “Very well, then we’ll proceed with acupuncture at noon tomorrow. I need to go back and prepare. For now, just continue with the decoction.”

Lu Boyi naturally agreed and added, “It’s truly unexpected that Miss Qin, at such a young age, possesses such remarkable medical skills.”

Qin Wan replied, “It’s only because I studied medicine from childhood.”

As she spoke, her gaze shifted to Lu Jinghe, “And this is…?”

Lu Boyi hurriedly said, “Oh, this is my humble son.”

Lu Youxin added, “This is my ninth nephew.”

Qin Wan suddenly understood, “Ah, so this is the Ninth Young Master. I notice your complexion is somewhat yellow and you have dark circles under your eyes. Have you been having trouble sleeping these past few nights?”

Lu Jinghe hadn’t expected Qin Wan to notice him. He stepped forward and nodded, “Miss Qin truly has keen eyes. I have indeed had some difficulty sleeping lately.”

Lu Boyi smiled and said, “I’ve been gravely ill, and my son has been worried, hence his lack of sleep.”

Qin Wan immediately nodded, “Would you like me to write you a prescription for calming the mind, Ninth Young Master?”

Lu Jinghe seemed momentarily at a loss for words. Lu Youxin laughed, “Don’t worry about him. He’s clever. After years of caring for his father, he’s practically half a doctor himself. He can treat such minor ailments on his own, rest assured.”

“I see. Then I was overly concerned.”

Qin Wan smiled gently, and Lu Jinghe returned the smile before stepping back.

Though the room wasn’t particularly crowded, Lu Jinghe stood quietly with downcast eyes, barely noticeable. Only when one’s gaze fell upon him could one see his handsome features and his extraordinarily refined bearing. Looking at Lu Jinghe like this, Qin Wan found it impossible to associate him with the word “murderer,” yet after all these years, she knew deeply that one should never judge by appearances alone.

“Having heard Miss Qin’s words, my mind is at ease. It’s getting late, I won’t take up any more of Miss Qin’s time.”

As Lu Boyi rose to leave, Lu Jinghe quickly stepped forward to help him. As he reached out his hand, Qin Wan noticed a scabbed wound below his right pinky finger. She couldn’t help asking, “How did you hurt your hand, Ninth Young Master?”

At this question, everyone looked at Lu Jinghe. Lu Boyi also glanced at Lu Jinghe’s hand and smiled, “He burned it while brewing medicine for me last time.”

Qin Wan nodded with a smile, “The Ninth Young Master is truly filial. Take care, Fifth Master.”

Lu Boyi nodded once more to Lu Youxin, and father and son took their leave.

Qin Wan watched them disappear, her gaze lingering on the entrance. Lu Youxin noticed and approached, asking about the acupuncture arrangements, “Wan’er? Will the acupuncture be very effective?”

Qin Wan came back to herself, “Yes, the decoction works very slowly, while acupuncture shows results more quickly. The patient will just have to endure some discomfort.”

Lu Youxin let out a breath, “That’s good then.”

After sitting for a while longer, Qin Wan headed toward Handan Pavilion. On the way from Wutong Court to Handan Pavilion, there was a flower garden with a covered bridge. Just as Qin Wan reached the edge of the garden, she saw two people standing on the bridge – Lu Jingxiu and Lu Jingyun. Qin Wan frowned and stopped as the two came down together.

Lu Jingxiu cupped his hands in greeting to Qin Wan, “Princess—”

Qin Wan’s expression remained unchanged as she asked, “Why is the Fifth Young Master here?”

Lu Jingxiu quickly explained, “I went to Jianzhou City today and heard people saying that tonight there would be the phenomenon of Mars guarding the Heart constellation, so I wanted to wait here and see.”

If Lu Jingxiu had mentioned anything else it would have been fine, but he specifically brought up Mars guarding the Heart! Qin Wan immediately became alert, “Mars guarding the Heart? Where did such rumors come from?”

Lu Jingxiu explained, “They say it came from the capital. The Imperial Observatory calculated it more than half a month ago. They say in the capital, Mars can be seen daily suspended between the half-moon and the Heart constellation, which is a very inauspicious omen. Now that the Northern Garrison Army has raised its banner in Cangzhou, it seems to match this celestial phenomenon. As this news spread among the common people, everyone naturally became anxious and discussed it extensively. Now even the south knows about it, as you can imagine…”

The Imperial Observatory specialized in observing celestial phenomena, and Mars guarding the Heart had always been considered greatly inauspicious. When such celestial signs appeared, they represented the coming of war and disaster. Now that the Empress and Crown Prince were leading the Northern Garrison Army in rebellion in the north, although Yan Chi hadn’t reached Shuoxi yet, warfare had broken out in Qianzhou. All these events confirmed the omen of Mars guarding the Heart. No wonder even Lu Jingxiu was here to observe it. Qin Wan hadn’t heard news from the capital or the north for many days. Now, hearing Lu Jingxiu speak of it, all the people and events of the capital surfaced in her mind, making her heart clench. She instinctively looked up at tonight’s sky—

It had been sunny during the day, and the night sky was equally clear. A crescent moon hung at the edge of the sky, surrounded by several faint stars. Qin Wan didn’t understand celestial phenomena and didn’t know which star was Mars, but since the news had spread so widely, it was probably true. With war approaching and Yan Chi currently amid battle, Qin Wan suddenly felt uneasy…

“Does the Princess know which star is Mars?”

Seeing Qin Wan’s solemn expression, Lu Jingxiu realized she had taken his words seriously and quickly asked.

Qin Wan shook her head, “I don’t know.”

Lu Jingxiu’s eyes brightened slightly, and he hurriedly pointed, “Do you see the brightest star to the lower left of the crescent moon? That’s Mars. Below Mars is the Star constellation. The weather is good tonight, perfect for stargazing. By late night, the Heart constellation probably won’t be visible anymore.”

Qin Wan looked where Lu Jingxiu pointed and indeed saw those two stars, “It seems war is unavoidable.”

Hearing this, Lu Jingxiu nodded, “That’s right. Not just the north, but the west probably won’t be peaceful either.”

Upon hearing this, Qin Wan turned to look at Lu Jingxiu. At the mention of the West, her gaze became serious. Lu Jingxiu dared not meet her eyes and turned away, saying, “There’s been some unusual movement in Qianzhou these past few days. Today when I went to Jianzhou City, I saw they had increased their defenses. Many refugees from Qianzhou couldn’t even enter Jianzhou City. According to them, a few days ago, a troop of soldiers suddenly appeared and engaged with the Qianzhou General’s forces stationed in southern Qianzhou. They’ve probably started fighting by now.”

Lu Jingxiu didn’t know where these people came from, nor did he know where Yan Chi had gone. Until now, no one knew his whereabouts, but based on his speculation, he assumed His Highness the Prince must have gone to Shuoxi. However, the situation in Qianzhou was likely related to Shuoxi. Seeing how grave Qin Wan’s expression became at the mention of Shuoxi and Qianzhou, he became even more convinced of his assumption. Thinking of how Qin Wan had been settled here by Yan Chi, separated from her husband, he felt somewhat contemptuous of the Prince from the rumors.

“Did those refugees say anything else?”

Qin Wan had been waiting for news from Qianzhou. After speaking with Lu Youxin, she also sent people to gather information, but no news had returned yet.

Now hearing Lu Jingxiu speak this way, she naturally had to ask.

Lu Jingxiu turned to face Qin Wan, “Most people say that while the Qianzhou garrison is considered elite, now that war has broken out there, who knows how long it will drag on. The longer it takes, the more the common people will suffer. Next, Jianzhou City will probably impose martial law, and these refugees won’t even be able to celebrate the New Year.”

Qin Wan narrowed her eyes, “The Qianzhou garrison hasn’t seen combat for many years, so they can’t be considered elite.”

The Qianzhou garrison soldiers weren’t elite; it was just that Jiang Heying had come from the Shuoxi army…

Qin Wan had a good grasp of the situation. Lu Jingxiu said, “That’s not necessarily true. After all, the Qianzhou garrison has been there for many years, which gives them an advantage others don’t have.”

Qin Wan didn’t argue further, as Lu Jingxiu’s words had some merit. Seeing her silence, Lu Jingxiu quickly asked, “Is the Princess worried?”

Qin Wan looked up. Though she had gotten information from Lu Jingxiu, she had no intention of discussing it deeply with him. She said, “Not really. The course of war is beyond our control, but Heaven has its justice. No matter how much turmoil there is in the country, in the end, the will of the people will prevail.”

Hearing Qin Wan’s words, Lu Jingxiu felt a warmth flow through his heart. Ordinary people couldn’t help but fear war, especially since Qin Wan was a woman, and the fighting was happening in Qianzhou, closest to Jianzhou. Even he felt anxious upon learning this news, yet Qin Wan seemed too composed. Moreover, she seemed confident that Qianzhou’s conflict would end in Shuoxi’s victory. Thinking of this, Lu Jingxiu felt somewhat resentful. Just as he was about to speak again, Qin Wan said, “It’s getting late. Fifth Young Master should return to rest. I’ll take my leave now.”

Qin Wan stepped back, walked around Lu Jingxiu, and left directly. Lu Jingxiu turned and opened his mouth but couldn’t utter a single word.

Lu Jingyun stood beside Lu Jingxiu, “Fifth Brother… it seems… still useless.”

Hearing this, Lu Jingxiu’s eyes brightened, “Who says it’s useless? I guessed that Qianzhou was related to Shuoxi, probably Prince Rui’s arrangement. She cares deeply about these matters, she just doesn’t show it. She doesn’t have many people around her, so news reaches her slowly. If I can bring her such news, she’ll surely become more familiar with me. Didn’t she just ask me questions and talk with me at length? Tomorrow we’ll go to Jianzhou again—”

Lu Jingyun said somewhat helplessly, “Fifth Brother, why bother? The Princess is already Prince Rui’s wife.”

Lu Jinghe snorted, showing no concern. Seeing that Qin Wan had completely disappeared, he turned and returned to Lanxiang Court.

……

……

Lu Jingxiu’s information was indeed valuable. Upon returning to Handan Pavilion, Qin Wan immediately summoned Bai Feng.

“His Highness must have left many informants in the capital. I want to know the news from the capital, and how things are in the north. Since even people in Jianzhou know that the Northern Garrison Army has risen in Cangzhou, surely the Empress and Crown Prince must have reached Cangzhou… These reports used to go to His Highness, but from now on, if convenient, please inform me as well.”

Although Qin Wan was far from the capital, she still had people she cared about there. Having not heard the news from the capital for many days, she felt quite uneasy.

Bai Feng quickly agreed, “The Master went to Qianzhou, and urgent news these past few days has all been sent there. Two letters about the capital and the north also arrived earlier, but since they weren’t marked urgent, they were left in the study, waiting for the Master’s return before reporting. If the Princess wants to see them, I can fetch them now.”

Hearing this, Qin Wan waved her hand, “No need to show me the letters. I just mean that if you hear news from the capital, you can tell me. Save those letters for his return.”

Bai Feng hurriedly said, “I didn’t know about the Mars guarding the Heart matter, but there is one thing I know that would surely interest the Princess.”

Qin Wan looked at Bai Feng, who pressed his lips together and said, “Princess Yue Ning and the Crown Prince of Prince Yi have set their wedding date. The Empress Dowager issued the decree for the marriage. The Empress Dowager’s health isn’t good, so perhaps not wanting to wait too long, she issued the decree setting the wedding date for April next year.”

Upon hearing this, Qin Wan clenched her fists, “Yue Ning and Yan Ze are engaged?!”

Bai Feng nodded, and Qin Wan took a deep breath to calm her inner unease.

Yan Ze had committed so many evil deeds. Although she hadn’t told Yue Ning explicitly, she had warned her. It seemed that Yue Ning still didn’t understand the full truth and, under pressure from her elders and her sense of guilt, had agreed to marry Yan Ze…

Qin Wan’s heart was pounding, “I… I want to write a letter to Yue Ning. Can you find a way to deliver it to her hands?”

Bai Feng nodded without hesitation, “Yes, now that things have settled somewhat, sending letters to the capital isn’t difficult.”

As soon as Qin Wan said she would write, she immediately went to the writing desk. However, when she picked up the brush, she hesitated slightly. Regarding Yan Ze, if she couldn’t speak in person, she wasn’t sure how to phrase things appropriately. After pondering for a while, Qin Wan decided to first explain her situation, and then carefully hint at her concerns about Yue Ning’s engagement.

After finishing the letter, it was already late. Qin Wan sealed the envelope with wax, and Bai Feng took it and left.

Qin Wan sighed, gazing at the moonlight outside the window, lost in thought. Yue Ning, Yan Sui, Sun Muqing, the Empress Dowager, the Grand Princess, and everyone in the Qin family—she didn’t know how any of these people connected to her were doing now…

……

……

Early the next morning, as soon as Qin Wan got up, she began preparing for the acupuncture treatment. Though their departure from the capital had been hurried, Fuling hadn’t forgotten to bring anything essential. For this treatment, Qin Wan still used the Supreme Nine Needles that Yan Chi had given her earlier. Before noon, she arrived early at Wutong Court.

Several stewards had just left Lu Youxin’s courtyard. With the New Year approaching, Lu Youxin was extremely busy. Seeing Qin Wan arrive, she took advantage of this break to talk with her.

“I’ve ordered the funeral arrangements prepared. We can’t keep delaying like this. Second Brother has stopped making trouble since learning about the mine disaster, but I understand their heartache at losing their son. We’ll take good care of them these days. As for the future, we’ll have to wait until the truth of the case is uncovered.”

The case of Lu Jingcheng weighed heavily on Qin Wan’s mind. Hearing this, she couldn’t help but offer Lu Youxin some words of comfort. Shortly after, Lu Boyi arrived with his son.

Lu Jinghe wore a green robe, his figure as elegant as a green bamboo. Following Lu Boyi inside, he provided a bright spot in the winter scenery.

The acupuncture required changing clothes, so Qin Wan had Lu Jinghe stay to help. As she watched Lu Jinghe help Lu Boyi remove his clothes, Qin Wan again noticed the wound on Lu Jinghe’s hand. Last night, Lu Boyi had said Lu Jinghe’s injury was from a burn, but seeing it now, Qin Wan felt Lu Boyi might have been lying.

However, without evidence, she couldn’t ask further, and with the wound scabbed over, she couldn’t be entirely certain of her judgment.

After Lu Boyi changed and lay down, Qin Wan set aside her thoughts and began the acupuncture treatment.

Performing acupuncture was extremely demanding both mentally and physically. After just a moment, a light sweat appeared on Qin Wan’s forehead. Lu Boyi’s face had turned pale from the pain. Seeing this, Lu Jinghe held his father’s hand and spoke softly to him, trying to distract him from the pain. Observing this, even Qin Wan had to admire Lu Jinghe—for someone his age to show such patience and filial piety was truly remarkable.

Once all the needles were in place, Lu Boyi gradually grew accustomed to the pain and soon closed his eyes to rest.

Seeing this, Qin Wan gestured for Lu Jinghe to leave, and they both walked out.

Outside, Lu Youxin was no longer present. Matron Huang came forward with tea for them both. “More stewards came from the outer court, so the Young Lady went to the council hall to meet them.”

Qin Wan naturally didn’t mind this, and Lu Jinghe sat down across from her. Qin Wan looked again at the wound on his hand, “Though the wound on Ninth Young Master’s hand has healed, in this winter weather, it could easily crack open. You must be careful, or it will leave a scar.”

Lu Jinghe’s injury was on his right hand, and the bloodstain on those clothes had also been on the right side. After speaking these words, Qin Wan observed Lu Jinghe’s expression.

Hearing this, Lu Jinghe only smiled faintly, “Thank you for your concern, Miss Qin. I’ll be careful.”

Qin Wan nodded, “I heard from Matron Huang that Ninth Young Master is quite skillful with his hands. The water wheel in the medicine pavilion was your creation. It’s truly impressive.”

Lu Jinghe kept his head down, smiling slightly, “They’re just trivial contraptions, Miss Qin is too kind.”

Lu Jinghe seemed uncomfortable with social interaction. Sitting opposite Qin Wan, he would only speak when she asked questions. As this continued, Qin Wan also fell somewhat silent, though her gaze occasionally fell on Lu Jinghe. At first, Qin Wan tried to be subtle, but after noticing Lu Jinghe’s lack of reaction, her gaze became more intense. She was certain Lu Jinghe knew she was watching him, yet under her scrutiny, he remained calm, simply holding his teacup and drinking. This surprised Qin Wan slightly.

For some reason, the more she observed Lu Jinghe, the more complex he seemed. At first glance, he appeared refined and gentle, but over time, he gave off an impression of profound depth…

After sitting for the time it takes to drink a cup of tea, Qin Wan rose and went back inside. Lu Boyi had fallen asleep, and Qin Wan carefully removed the needles. Lu Jinghe, who had followed her in, covered Lu Boyi with a brocade blanket before withdrawing again. Qin Wan instructed, “The medicine must be taken on time, and dietary restrictions must be followed. Don’t catch a cold these days. I’ll come check his pulse again tomorrow at noon. If all goes well, we’ll do acupuncture every three days. After three or four sessions, there should be a noticeable improvement.”

Lu Jinghe listened politely, occasionally nodding, then suddenly asked, “How long can Miss Qin stay at the mansion?”

Qin Wan replied, “I’ll be leaving a few days after the New Year, which is why I’m rushing to do the acupuncture now, or it would be too late.”

Disappointment flickered in Lu Jinghe’s eyes, “I see. Thank you, Miss Qin.”

Qin Wan nodded and left with Fuling and the others.

Lu Jinghe stood alone in the main hall watching Qin Wan leave. After her figure disappeared, he turned and sat in his seat. Matron Huang poured him more tea, but he didn’t drink it. After a while, he asked, “Matron, how is the investigation into Fourth Brother’s matter progressing?”

Matron Huang was very fond of Lu Jinghe. Hearing this, she sighed, “There’s still no progress. Earlier they discovered the mine disaster, and Hu Guangde was captured, but surely Hu Guangde couldn’t be the killer. Right now, we don’t know how to proceed with the investigation.”

Lu Jinghe nodded, “This Miss Qin, which famous doctor is she? To be so skilled at such a young age—we’ve been to Jianzhou City before but never heard of such a capable physician.”

Though Matron Huang couldn’t reveal Qin Wan’s identity, she still said to Lu Jinghe, “She’s no ordinary doctor. Her medical skills are exceptional. Young Lady asked her to treat Fifth Master, so you can rest assured.”

Lu Jinghe smiled slightly, “I’m certainly at ease. I just thought she would stay at the mansion longer, but now I learn she’s leaving after the New Year. I’m only worried about Father’s illness requiring long-term acupuncture—it will be difficult then.”

“Ninth Young Master needn’t worry so much. If necessary then, you can seek Miss Qin in the west.”

“The west?” Lu Jinghe asked in surprise. “From Miss Qin’s speech, she seems to be from the north…”

Matron Huang nodded with a smile, “She is from the north, but she told Young Lady where she’s going afterward, so this servant knows a little about it.”

Lu Jinghe nodded, “By the way, I didn’t see Matron in the mansion these past few days. Did you perhaps return to Lanzhou?”

Matron Huang waved her hand, “No, I didn’t go to Lanzhou. Young Lady had other tasks for me.”

Lu Jinghe responded with an “Oh” and asked no more. After waiting another half hour, Lu Boyi woke up, and Lu Jinghe accompanied him back to Qingzhu Court.

……

……

By evening, Lu Youxin’s attendant returned to Bailuzhou, bringing news from Qianzhou.

Lu Youxin found time before dinner to personally tell Qin Wan, “They are fighting, but no one knows where these troops came from that engaged with the Qianzhou garrison. There are many rumors now, some saying they’re from Shuoxi, but no one knows yet that Chi’er has gone to Qianzhou. Qianzhou has had heavy snow these past few days, and many refugees have frozen to death on the road to Jianzhou. It’s truly pitiful. People also say Qianzhou’s gates have been closed for several days, and the Prefecture Lord hasn’t appeared. The city is in chaos now. Who knows if Jianzhou will be next…”

“Qianzhou’s position cannot be yielded, and General Jiang Heying of Qianzhou is moreover connected to Imperial Father’s death, which is why they started with Qianzhou this time. Jianzhou is heaven’s storehouse—he won’t carelessly let warfare spread here. From beginning to end, he never planned to take the southern cities by military force.”

Qin Wan spoke slowly, and Lu Youxin sighed, “I naturally know his intentions. Now the southern garrisons are empty, and the capital is dealing with the north—it’s a good opportunity. But I know that though Chi’er has ambition, he won’t let the common people suffer devastation.”

The southern garrisons had always emphasized naval forces, and with the Jinzhou garrison heading north to aid the capital, the south no longer had any force capable of facing the Shuoxi army. Yet at this time, Yan Chi also had no intention of annexing the southern prefectures. This was Yan Chi’s righteousness. Thinking of Yan Chi, Qin Wan said, “There are only five days until the New Year. I wonder if he can make it back.”

Lu Youxin held her hand and said, “Of course, he can make it back. Even if he can’t return, you must stay and celebrate the New Year with Aunt. These past few years, New Year’s has always been busy, and I haven’t had anyone close by my side. This year is different—even if Chi’er doesn’t return, having you in this garden is enough to make me happy!”

Qin Wan smiled, “Alright, I’ll certainly celebrate the New Year with Aunt…”

Lu Youxin continued, “With war breaking out, many people won’t have a good New Year this year. The Northern Garrison Army moving south leaves a trail of blood and fire. Aunt just wants to see you all safe and well, then I can be at peace. Chi’er is blessed with good fortune, he will surely succeed this time.”

Qin Wan hoped for this too, but thinking of the refugees Lu Youxin mentioned freezing to death and the bloodshed in the north, she felt some distress.

All this warfare and strife arose because of the Emperor, but what fault had the common people? Qin Wan momentarily felt compassion, followed by some indignation. If Prince Luo hadn’t met with misfortune, if today’s emperor were truly Yan Huai, how different would the Great Zhou Empire be today?

With the New Year approaching in a few days, Qin Wan divided her time between treating Lu Boyi and watching the garden being cleaned and dusted. Although the truth behind Lu Jingcheng’s death hadn’t been uncovered, two days later, his memorial hall was first set up. Lu Youxin found the finest coffin for Lu Jingcheng and invited monks from Fahua Temple outside Jianzhou City to perform a ceremony before storing the coffin. However, with the murderer still not found, neither Lu Youxin nor Lu Boyong from the Second Branch approved of burying Lu Jingcheng too early.

Three days later, Bai Feng received news from Lanzhou. Given the distance between Lanzhou and Jianzhou, Bai Feng had to use carrier pigeons for communication. Qin Wan saw the pigeons coming several times in one day, and the information she wanted to know was delivered to the garden one piece at a time.

“Princess, our people in Lanzhou investigated. Ninth Young Master’s birth mother’s surname is Xu. Madam Xu has been living in Hu County, Lanzhou, all this time. Apparently, on Fifth Branch’s orders, she hasn’t left that place for years. Fifth Branch gave her an excellent residence with many servants. She lives quite comfortably now, though she’s somewhat lonely without children. However, there’s one more thing… Ninth Young Master seems to have known about his background for some time. Our people learned that every year around the eighth day of the fifth month, someone sends gifts to Madam Xu’s residence. These people’s identities are unknown, but the eighth day of the fifth month is Ninth Young Master’s true birthday.”

“Our people inquired among the Lu clan in Lanzhou. Fifth Branch has cut off contact with Madam Xu these years, only ordering servants to look after her, seemingly afraid she might change her mind. Officially, no one knows about Ninth Young Master’s background, probably fearing he might develop other thoughts if he knew. But based on the reports we received, Ninth Young Master may have known for some time, and three years ago, he even personally visited Hu County once. He didn’t bring any servants that time, but it was only that one visit.”

“If Ninth Young Master himself knows about his background, others might know too. But the time has been short, and we haven’t investigated thoroughly. I’ve ordered others to continue investigating, and more news might arrive in another two days…”

As Bai Feng reported everything, Qin Wan read through all the notes brought by the carrier pigeons. The time had been too short for detailed information, but the fact was that if their people could find Madam Xu, other interested parties could too. Lu Jingcheng had arranged the Xiushan mine disaster; investigating Lu Jinghe wouldn’t have been impossible either.