The Great Zhou Dynasty had stood for over two hundred years. Since the Founding Emperor’s diligent governance, none of the successive rulers had been incompetent. A century ago, it had already become the largest territory in the Central Plains, and now it was the foremost empire receiving tribute from ten thousand nations.

The vast Great Zhou Empire stretched from Weizhou Island in the south to the Canglong Mountain Range in the north, bordered by the Eastern Sea to the east and the towering Shuoxi Plateau to the west. While the empire stood majestically on the Central Plains, noble ladies like Qin Shuang and Qin Xiang, who rarely ventured outside, typically only traveled between their maiden home and their marital home. Thus, upon hearing about the journey to Yuzhou, the sickly Qin Xiang showed little interest, while Qin Shuang was extremely excited.

When Qin Wan heard this, she realized she had been outmaneuvered by Yan Chi. With his intelligence network, how could he not have known that Qin Yan would also be traveling to Yuzhou? Though annoyed internally, she showed no outward signs and quietly returned to her quarters to prepare for the journey.

Qin Yan, eager to build connections with Yan Chi, wouldn’t miss this opportunity to travel together. He immediately visited Yan Chi’s quarters again. Early the next morning, with Prefect He Zhixing and Jixian County Magistrate Jiang Yuanzhou seeing them off enthusiastically, Yan Chi, accompanied by Bai Feng, set out for Yuzhou with Qin Yan’s group. It was already the twenty-fourth day of the tenth month, and their time was somewhat limited.

The Qin family’s carriages and luggage were still at the Changfu Inn, while Qin Yan’s group had already covered half the distance. If they were heading directly to the capital, it would only take another half month to arrive. However, the detour to Yuzhou would add five or six more days to their journey. Therefore, Qin Yan decided to split the luggage, sending his attendants ahead to the Marquis Manor with half the belongings.

By noon, Qin Yan’s group arrived at Changfu Inn. Wei Changfu, seeing not only Qin Yan’s return but also the arrival of someone of even higher status, hurriedly served tea and water, not daring to speak unnecessarily.

“Young Master, please feel free to check. All your belongings are here, and the coachmen have been well-fed and rested these past two days, with no negligence,” Wei Changfu led Qin Yan to inspect. After walking around, Qin Yan nodded and had his attendants reward Wei Changfu with silver.

Wei Changfu beamed with joy while Qin Yan gave a series of instructions to Zhou Huai.

Soon, the original procession of over ten carriages was reduced to just four. Qin Wan and Qin Shuang shared one carriage, the ill Qin Xiang rode alone in another, while a third was prepared for Bai Ying. The final carriage carried the essential luggage of the three Qin sisters and other miscellaneous items. As they needed to repack, Furong and the other maids who knew their mistresses’ needs came to help.

For a while, only the three Qin sisters and Yan Chi remained in the spacious inn hall.

Though Qin Xiang and Qin Shuang had seen Yan Chi before, they had never sat this close to him. The sickly Qin Xiang kept her head down but couldn’t help stealing glances at Yan Chi, while Qin Shuang seemed somewhat afraid of him and sat sideways, avoiding facing him.

Qin Wan sat properly and remained silent, creating an awkward silence in the hall.

“You were staying here before?” Yan Chi asked Qin Wan in his deep voice. Qin Wan nodded, “Yes, we initially wanted to rent a private residence, but the village was somewhat unwelcoming to outsiders, so we could only stay at the village’s only inn.”

“And then you met Sun Muqing?”

Qin Wan nodded, and disapproval flickered in Yan Chi’s eyes.

Qin Wan understood Yan Chi’s meaning – he probably wondered how they could follow Sun Muqing to Baicao Garden after just a few meetings.

But aside from the fact that she already knew Sun Muqing, given their situation at the time, they had no other choice.

Qin Wan sighed inwardly, “We had no alternative then.”

As she spoke, Qin Wan suddenly remembered something and asked, “Did I see yamen runners entering the village earlier?”

Just as she finished speaking, Wei Changfu respectfully stepped forward and said, “Ninth Miss is correct. Indeed, they were yamen runners. Just yesterday, they suddenly entered the village, saying they had discovered the truth behind the strange incidents in the village and came to investigate thoroughly.”

Qin Wan watched Wei Changfu, waiting for him to continue. Wei Changfu glanced at Yan Chi, and seeing no displeasure on his face, continued, “The yamen runners said the earlier deaths were murders, not the work of man-eating monsters, plague, or curses. They went door-to-door to families who had lost members and even visited the cemetery.”

Speaking further, Wei Changfu’s face showed some fear, “Ninth Miss, guess what? Several family graves were empty, including that of Old Lady Feng’s granddaughter whom you met – her coffin was empty.”

Qin Wan suddenly asked, “Did she suffer from heart problems when she was alive?”

Wei Changfu nodded then shook his head, “I don’t know the specifics, only that she was very weak since childhood. Later, some said it was consumption. I was afraid and never associated with their family.”

Qin Wan nodded slightly upon hearing this. Seeing that Qin Wan had no more questions, Wei Changfu withdrew.

Qin Shuang’s expression changed several times before saying, “Do they still not know it was Sun…”

Qin Wan glanced at Qin Shuang, who immediately stopped speaking, but then added quietly, “Wasn’t that person impersonating the Bai family’s young master frequently going out? Was it him… but why would he dig up corpses?”

Qin Wan still remembered that corpse with its organs removed and its body dissected. By the looks of it, Sun Yaoyue was likely trying to study the post-mortem state of the deceased to figure out treatment methods.

Qin Wan shook her head, “Perhaps he wanted to understand how people died.”

Qin Shuang blinked, “Like the coroners at the yamen?”

Qin Wan nodded “mm,” and Qin Shuang showed some understanding, “Could it be that he wanted to bring people back to life? Madam Sun passed away so early…”

Qin Wan didn’t respond to this. This case didn’t begin with their arrival but started a century ago. She hadn’t examined the corpses and didn’t know when Madam Sun had passed away, nor did she know what thoughts the later Sun Yaoyue harbored. The only thing she knew clearly was that Madam Sun’s illness was Sun Yaoyue’s greatest obsession that drove him to madness.

Qin Wan felt somewhat melancholic thinking about it. Seeing that the Yuanzhou Prefecture had already taken over the case at Baicao Garden, and they were about to leave this place, she suppressed her investigative curiosity about the case.

“Everything’s arranged. We can depart,” Shortly after, Qin Yan strode in from outside, with Furong and others following.

Yan Chi stood up, “Good, let’s set out and reach Guanyin Town before dark.”

Qin Yan nodded and walked out with Yan Chi, then said quietly, “I apologize, my sisters can’t ride horses, which has delayed Your Highness.”

Yan Chi curved his lips slightly, “It’s no matter. The mountain roads are difficult anyway, so going slower isn’t an issue.”

Qin Yan had planned to ride in a carriage, but seeing that Yan Chi had only prepared horses, he abandoned the idea. Soon, the group set out again, with four carriages and over ten horses leading the way, followed by another procession of carriages leaving Changfu Inn’s courtyard. Wei Changfu stood at the gate watching them leave, sighing that these were probably the most distinguished people he would ever see in his lifetime…

Continuing north after leaving Sanyuan Village, they reached Guanyin Town by nightfall. Though just a town, it rivaled Jixian County in size. The group stayed at a comfortable inn there, and after a good night’s rest, they set out again early the next morning.

Heading west after leaving Guanyin Town, they reached Hu County, which bordered Jixian, within a day. Taking the official road northwest from Hu County, they entered Yuzhou territory after two days.

Yuzhou lay northwest of Yunwu Mountain and was two degrees colder than Yuanzhou. Another day passed, and snow suddenly fell from the sky that had been clear for several days, making it difficult for those on horseback like Yan Chi and Qin Yan.

By the evening of the twenty-eighth, Qin Yan showed signs of catching a cold.

The group had reached Xiangxian in southeastern Yuzhou, and with one more day’s journey, they could reach Yuzhou City by the evening of the twenty-ninth. However, Qin Yan’s illness greatly worried the steward Zhou Huai—

“Perhaps we should only travel to Beimiao Town north of Xiangxian tomorrow? Or arrange a carriage for the Young Master, and Your Highness should also stop riding horseback. It wouldn’t do for everyone to catch cold.”

As Zhou Huai spoke, Qin Yan coughed while smiling bitterly. Glancing at the imposing Yan Chi, he didn’t want to appear too weak at this moment and hurriedly said, “Steward Zhou is overthinking it. We’ll arrive tomorrow evening, why delay on the road? Just have Ninth Sister prepare some medicine for me. My apologies for making Your Highness laugh – I’ve grown somewhat lazy these past few years, and my constitution isn’t what it used to be.”

Yan Chi stood by the window, looking over at them. Hearing this, he waved his hand, “You’re not like me, raised in Shuoxi. I doubt you’ve ever traveled such a long distance before. It’s normal to fall ill when exhausted.”

He glanced at Qin Wan, “With Ninth Miss here, take some medicine and rest for two days in Yuzhou, and you’ll be fine. However, it’s better to arrange a carriage for you tomorrow.”

When Qin Yan tried to decline, Yan Chi said, “We’ll arrange a carriage for you, then head straight to Yuzhou City.”

At this, Qin Yan hesitated for a moment. Though he didn’t want to delay everyone’s journey, he wasn’t confident about his health if he continued riding. After brief consideration, Qin Yan decided not to worry about appearances – if his illness worsened, it would be even more embarrassing. “Very well, then let’s prepare a carriage for Your Highness as well.”

Yan Chi curved his lips slightly, “That won’t be necessary.” After a brief pause, he glanced at Qin Wan, “However, if Ninth Miss has any medicine to prevent catching a cold, I would appreciate some as a precaution.”

Qin Wan nodded, “Of course, I’ll send it to Your Highness shortly.”

Everyone was currently in Qin Yan’s room. Satisfied with this arrangement, Yan Chi said, “Good, everyone should retire early. We’ll stick to tomorrow’s travel plans. I’ll return to my room now.”

Qin Yan naturally agreed, and after Yan Chi left, he instructed Qin Wan, “Make sure to send the medicine to His Highness later.”

Qin Wan nodded and took out paper and brush to write a prescription. “Third Brother’s cold has already entered his body. Start taking this prescription tonight. Tomorrow’s carriage must be kept warm – you’ll feel much better after sweating twice.”

As she spoke, Qin Wan handed the prescription to Zhou Huai, who immediately nodded, “Yes, I understand.”

With that, Zhou Huai went to fetch the medicine – they had brought some medicinal ingredients in their carriages.

“Thank you, Ninth Sister. Your medical skills have saved us much trouble.”

Qin Wan’s lips curved slightly, “It’s what I should do. Third Brother must take good care of himself.”

Qin Yan smiled hearing this, “I know, I’ll certainly take the medicine you prescribed properly.” After a slight pause, he added, “How are Fifth Sister and your maid?”

At this, Qin Wan felt somewhat helpless, while Qin Shuang quickly interjected, “Fifth Sister is fine now, she’s just embarrassed to face people. But Bai Ying’s condition is still quite serious.”

Thinking of Qin Xiang still made Qin Yan’s blood boil, so he didn’t inquire further. “Alright, go and rest now. Tomorrow is the last day – once we reach Yuzhou City, it won’t be so tiring.”

Qin Shuang nodded and was about to leave when Qin Wan asked, “Third Brother, are you planning to take us all to Prince Yu’s birthday celebration?”

While attending Prince Yu’s birthday celebration would be good, it was unusual to bring three sisters to such an event. Their group was quite large, and if they all went, it would draw too much attention.

Hearing this, Qin Yan also hesitated, “Taking everyone wouldn’t be appropriate, but many people will be attending Prince Yu’s celebration. It would be good for you all to see the world.”

Hearing this, Qin Shuang’s eyes flickered, “Fifth Sister hasn’t fully recovered, she probably shouldn’t attend the celebration.”

Qin Wan and Qin Yan exchanged glances, both showing slightly helpless smiles. Qin Shuang coughed lightly, “Was I… was I too obvious…”

Qin Wan covered her mouth, her amusement deepening. Qin Shuang was just quick-minded, not malicious. So she said, “It doesn’t matter whether I go or not. Third Brother, if it’s inconvenient, just take my two sisters.”

Qin Shuang’s eyes widened immediately, “You… aren’t you making me look especially bad?!”

Qin Wan laughed, “Sixth Sister is just straightforward, Third Brother understands.”

Qin Yan glanced at the two of them without showing displeasure, simply saying, “Alright, I’ll think about it. You two go rest now.”

With that, Qin Wan and Qin Shuang finally turned and left. Once outside, Qin Shuang huffed softly, “Why concede? Don’t tell me you don’t want to go. Or are you willing to let Fifth Sister steal your spotlight?”

Qin Wan pondered – a prince’s birthday celebration was certainly extraordinary, grand, and lively, with many distinguished guests. For young ladies like them, they might even encounter some promising young talents…

However, none of this meant much to her. She truly didn’t want to go.

“It’s not about conceding. If I went, I’d have to be fully armed and on guard the whole time. I’m already exhausted from this journey. You all go enjoy the festivities, I’ll rest at the inn.”

Qin Wan’s tone was steady, without a hint of pretense. Qin Shuang stared at her with widened eyes and said no more.

“The kind-hearted get bullied. You’re too good-natured.”

Qin Wan smiled faintly, “Well, regardless, you’ll be able to go. Don’t worry. Go rest now – I need to deliver medicine to His Highness.”

Mentioning Yan Chi, Qin Shuang’s eyes rolled thoughtfully, “Speaking of which, Fifth Sister has been watching His Highness quite often these past few days.”

Qin Wan blinked, “Oh? Has Fifth Sister developed feelings again?”

Qin Shuang snorted lightly, “She’d better think twice about having designs on His Highness, but… if she got the chance, do you think she wouldn’t dare? Just think about last time!”

Qin Wan nodded, “Fifth Sister is indeed quite bold.”

Qin Shuang looked Qin Wan up and down, “How can you be so obtuse!”

Qin Wan looked purely innocent, “What’s wrong?”

Qin Shuang sighed deeply, and in a meaningful tone said, “What do you mean ‘what’s wrong’? His Highness has been taking special care of you this entire journey. Regardless of his reasons, surely you know the saying about ‘the moon being seen first from the waterside pavilion’?”

Qin Wan tilted her head and thought for a moment, “That does make some sense—”

Her flat, indifferent tone clearly showed she was just being perfunctory. Hearing this made Qin Shuang angry, “If I had your beauty, I would have already…”

Qin Wan made an “mm” sound, “Would have what?”

Qin Shuang seemed to think of something but then shook her head, “No, even if I had your beauty, I wouldn’t covet His Highness. His Highness fought wars in the West, killing people like grass – he’s a demon king who’s created such heavy karmic debt. How could heaven let him prosper? He might even bring misfortune to those around him. Imperial power and wealth are naturally good, but they’re not so easy to bear.”

As Qin Shuang spoke, her tone took on a world-weary quality. Qin Wan laughed, “Where did you hear all this? His Highness was protecting the country…”

“Grandmother said so.” Qin Shuang recalled Madam Jiang and her eyes showed some worry, “Grandmother believes in these things the most. Just look at the current situation of the Qin family – isn’t it proving those words true? Father himself… has implicated the whole family.”

Qin Wan’s lips pressed together slightly. When it came to Qin An, that was indeed the case.

As they talked, they had reached Qin Shuang’s door. Qin Shuang stopped and said, “Don’t get too close to His Highness either.”

There was genuine concern in these words, and Qin Wan smiled bitterly and nodded.

After Qin Shuang went inside, Qin Wan walked toward her room. This was the second floor of the inn, and Qin Yan had generously booked the entire floor. There were nine rooms in total – one each for the four Qin siblings and their servants, one for Yan Chi, one for the injured Bai Ying, and the remaining three were shared by Qin Manor’s guards who laid out bedding on the floor.

Somehow, Yan Chi’s room ended up at the end of the western corridor, separated from Qin Wan’s room only by Bai Ying’s room, making it very convenient for Qin Wan to visit Yan Chi’s room.

“Miss, shall I accompany you?”

“No need, I’ll be back shortly. Make the brazier burn more vigorously.”

With Bai Ying recuperating, Qin Wan had only Furong by her side. Since Qin Wan didn’t ask Furong to accompany her, the maid stayed in the room without worry.

Ever since Yan Chi had saved Qin Wan before her eyes, Furong had developed great reverence and trust in him. Since Qin Wan was just delivering medicine, she wasn’t concerned at all. Besides, it was only twenty steps away – nothing could happen over such a short distance.

Qin Wan held a medicine bottle as she walked toward Yan Chi’s room. Just as she reached the door, Bai Feng came out from inside. Seeing Qin Wan, he quickly smiled, “Ninth Miss—”

Qin Wan indicated the medicine bottle, “I’ve come to deliver medicine to His Highness.”

Bai Feng smiled and nodded, quickly stepping aside, “Please enter, Ninth Miss.”

Qin Wan entered with a dignified smile, and Bai Feng closed the door behind her.

Yan Chi had already removed his outer robe and was sitting by the window wearing only a black inner garment, looking at something on the low table. His black garment was still properly fastened, maintaining proper decorum. Seeing Qin Wan enter, he beckoned to her, “Come here—”

Qin Wan approached with the medicine bottle and saw that Yan Chi was reading what appeared to be an official document, or rather, some kind of secret report from his people. She barely glanced at it before turning away, but Yan Chi suddenly pulled her into his embrace.

“I meant for you to look at it, why are you being so cautious?”

Qin Wan found herself seated on Yan Chi’s lap, feeling this was too intimate. She struggled slightly, only half-supported, then turned her gaze back to see it was a roster. The list contained names and official positions, mostly local Yuzhou officials, but also many nobles and court officials from the capital.

The names of the Crown Prince and several princes were prominently listed.

Qin Wan’s eyes focused, “Are these the guests who will attend Prince Yu’s birthday celebration?”

Yan Chi’s lips curved slightly, “Not all of them, but most. The Crown Prince and several princes likely won’t come in person, but the others will attend.”

“Why show me this…”

The list was extremely long, and Qin Wan hadn’t finished reading it all. Since she wasn’t planning to attend Prince Yu’s celebration anyway, she naturally wasn’t concerned about these details. Seeing her attitude, Yan Chi narrowed his eyes, “Isn’t it better to let you know early?”

Qin Wan maintained a normal expression and made a show of browsing since he still held the register before her, “I don’t plan to—”

Before she could finish saying “Go,” Qin Wan suddenly stopped speaking. Her gaze had fallen on the register, where a very familiar name appeared in her view.

Her reaction immediately caught Yan Chi’s attention. He glanced at where she was looking, seeing several names of capital officials. “What is it? Do you know any of these people?”

Qin Wan quickly regained her composure, “No, but some names look familiar.”

Yan Chi stared at Qin Wan for a moment, “The one that seems familiar to you is Li Muyun, isn’t it?”

Qin Wan’s breath caught slightly, first because seeing that name made her ears ring, and second because Yan Chi’s words immediately put her on guard. Seeing her strange expression, Yan Chi studied her for a moment before saying slowly, “He was formerly the Deputy Chief of the Court of Judicature. After Shen Yi’s incident, he’s now the Chief Minister of the Court.”

Only after he finished speaking did Qin Wan’s eyes darken as she nodded, “I see. His name must have appeared alongside Official Shen’s…”

Yan Chi continued staring directly at Qin Wan and nodded, “He was the one who exposed Shen Yi’s crimes.”

Qin Wan was half-sitting on Yan Chi’s lap, enveloped in his presence like a delicate flower, but at his words, her spine slowly straightened. The softness and shyness instantly vanished from her bearing, and she became as straight as bamboo, somewhat imposing. Yan Chi’s phoenix eyes narrowed, “What’s wrong?”

Everyone knew that former Chief Minister Shen Yi of the Court of Judicature had shown favoritism and attempted to cover up for Prince Jin in the case of harming Imperial Consort Jin. In the end, his crimes were only exposed because of his most trusted deputy’s revelation. Yan Chi knew of Qin Wan’s admiration for Shen Yi, so he understood her reaction upon learning about Li Muyun, but for some reason, watching her like this, he felt her obsession with Shen Yi’s downfall was too heavy.

“He’s become Chief Minister of the Court? Why would he leave the capital at this time?” Qin Wan had to practically grit her teeth to suppress the surging emotions in her heart, yet before Yan Chi, she couldn’t show even a hint.

Yan Chi’s hands holding her tightened slightly. He set aside the register and embraced her with both arms.

“It’s year-end, there must be official business in Yuzhou, otherwise he wouldn’t leave the capital so casually.”

The Court of Judicature managed criminal cases throughout the empire, ranking even higher than the Ministry of Justice. At year-end, major cases and important criminals from all prefectures had to be sent to the capital for joint review by the Court and Ministry. For Li Muyun to leave the capital at this time, there must be problems with case reviews from the Yuzhou direction. Qin Wan nodded, “I see…”

Seeing Qin Wan’s heavy tone and inexplicable coldness, Yan Chi gently stroked her back, “Have you heard about him exposing Shen Yi’s crimes before?”

Since Yan Chi asked this way, he must be suspicious. Qin Wan lowered her eyes and made an “mm” sound.

Yan Chi sighed lightly, “I know of your admiration for Shen Yi. Having read his writings, I too find it hard to believe he would lose his sense of justice in Prince Jin’s case. Rest assured, when we return to the capital, I will look into this matter when I have the chance.”

Hearing these words, Qin Wan’s heart warmed. If it were anyone else, they would likely advise her that since the Emperor had already passed final judgment, what business did a young lady have questioning it? They would tell her that one can’t judge a book by its cover and that someone capable of writing such works might not necessarily be truly virtuous. Yet Yan Chi hadn’t offered a single word of advice.

Qin Wan turned to look at Yan Chi, “Do you find this case suspicious?”

Yan Chi stroked her cheek, “There are no obvious points of suspicion, but I’ve read his writings and had people investigate his political achievements and various anecdotes over the years. I know he truly deserves to be called ‘upright.’ Moreover, since your methods of examining corpses and solving cases were greatly influenced by him, I should investigate, if only for this reason.”

Qin Wan’s lips pressed together, almost ready to share more of her thoughts. With Yan Chi’s status and position, he would have easier access to that case than her and more authority to speak about it. But Qin Wan’s throat constricted, unable to speak as if saying more would be taking advantage of him. She took a shallow breath, “I just believed him to be a good official based on reading his writings. Since this case has already been concluded, if you inquire about it, others might be displeased.”

“Do you need to teach me about these things?”

Yan Chi held her face toward his, “There’s another reason I want to look into this matter… Prince Jin.”

Their eyes met, and Qin Wan’s eyes brightened slightly, “Prince Jin?”

Yan Chi nodded, “I’ve been away from the capital for many years and have indeed grown distant from these cousins. Moreover, you don’t know yet that the palace, both inside and out, is a place that can change one’s nature. Those who spend years in the palace, constantly at the Emperor’s side, may develop different hearts at any time. But Prince Jin… he’s someone I’m certain will never change.”

As he spoke, Yan Chi’s gaze grew distant, “His birth mother was a concubine who served His Majesty even when he was still just a prince. When Prince Jin was born, His Majesty was only a prince himself. Though he was the eldest son, being born of a concubine, he knew from birth he had no chance at the throne. He always intended to take a post away from court, much like Uncle Prince Yu. With such intentions, he never involved himself in court factions over the years, and… why would he suddenly plot against a consort? Especially the Emperor’s most beloved consort? The incident happened during a palace banquet, with everyone witnessing Imperial Consort Jin die before him – it’s too strange.”

Qin Wan also narrowed her eyes. A favored imperial consort died tragically, and the culprit wasn’t another consort but an adult prince. Though not favored, his status as a prince already guaranteed him a life of wealth and glory. Why would he suddenly plot against a favored consort? Not only did he kill someone, but he was caught in front of everyone.

This was a case that shocked the capital, and a mysterious case within the imperial family.

A mysterious victim, a mysterious culprit, and not even a plausible motive could be found.

Qin Wan only regretted not seeing the case files… What was the situation like then?

Her father seemed to sense this case’s unusual nature from the very beginning. Though he never stopped her from reading case files before, at that time he strictly forbade her involvement. Qin Wan was obedient, and besides, a case involving a favored consort and a prince was vastly different from regular provincial cases – she dared not interfere…

But as time went on, her father grew increasingly silent, his expression increasingly grave. Over the years, her father had dealt with many strange and mysterious cases. His opponents included ordinary people who, though physically weak, harbored vicious hearts; martial arts masters who could kill from ten paces away; and nobles whose power reached the heavens. But that was the first time she saw hesitation and despair on her father’s face, and even some fear as if he sensed their family’s impending doom.

“I see. I didn’t know these things. I only knew that Official Shen never bowed to power. If it had been the current Crown Prince who committed the crime, that would be one thing, but it was just Prince Jin – why would he show favoritism for Prince Jin’s sake…”

Yan Chi stroked Qin Wan’s cheek, “Your point is very reasonable, but we haven’t returned to the capital yet, so don’t think about it now. As for the new Chief Minister of the Court, though he was the one who exposed it, we don’t know what role he played. Don’t think too much about it. You’ve had a difficult journey; rest well when we reach Yuzhou.”

After a slight pause, Yan Chi asked, “What were you saying earlier? What weren’t you planning to do?”

Qin Wan’s lips moved slightly, “I wasn’t planning to pay attention to those distinguished persons, just joining in the festivities would be enough.”

Yan Chi chuckled lightly, “Why would you need to pay attention to those people?”

As he spoke, he lightly pinched her waist and lowered his head to draw closer. Qin Wan leaned back, her face slightly pink as she tried to dodge, but Yan Chi complained, “You’ve barely spoken to me this entire journey, and you dare to dodge?”

Hearing this, Qin Wan stopped avoiding him. Yan Chi’s kisses fell softly and densely on her lips. Unlike his urgent, aggressive kisses from the past few days, even though they hadn’t been intimate for several days, he remained unhurried. Qin Wan felt her tense body gradually softening under his gentleness, the suppressed pain in her heart largely dissolving. Only after kissing her until she was breathless did he stop. His fingertip slid across her lips, collecting tiny drops of moisture, making Qin Wan’s face instantly flush red.

Yan Chi held Qin Wan, pressing her head against his chest.

Qin Wan slowly closed her eyes and said, “I’ve been gone for a long time…”

Though she said this, she didn’t move. Somehow, she felt somewhat tired.

“Just say my old injury was acting up and you were giving me acupuncture.”

This excuse was perfect. Qin Wan made an “mm” sound and closed her eyes, settling quietly against his chest.

The brazier in his room wasn’t burning strongly, yet he wore only a thin garment. Qin Wan wanted to say something, but feeling his body temperature, she held back. Having endured the harsh conditions of the Shuoxi Plains, his body was like a furnace.

Yan Chi also remained silent, just gently stroking Qin Wan’s back. He looked down at the top of her head, somewhat surprised by his gentleness. Before Qin Wan, he had only shown such tenderness to his long spear.

At this moment, Qin Wan had none of his red-tasseled spear’s sharp killing intent. She was gentle and quietly beautiful like a child who hadn’t grown up, and the way she leaned against him inexplicably made his blood surge with a desire to do something.

But he knew he couldn’t do anything right now. Tonight’s Qin Wan had been different ever since seeing Li Muyun’s name.

And that unfinished sentence of hers had been changed mid-way.

All of this was naturally because of Li Muyun’s name. Li Muyun… Shen Yi…

She still cared so deeply about Shen Yi, this former Chief Minister of the Court known for his integrity and illustrious reputation.

Understanding this, Yan Chi’s eyes grew even darker. Soon after, Qin Wan, who had been motionless, suddenly straightened up. She decisively left his lap, “I must go. This medicine is for preventing colds. I made quite a bit in Jinzhou, and seeing you facing the wind and snow these past few days, I’ve been meaning to give you some. Please wear an extra cloak tomorrow.”

Yan Chi released her composedly, “Alright, I’ll do as you say.”

Qin Wan glanced at Yan Chi once more before turning and walking out.

Yan Chi remained seated, watching Qin Wan leave before gripping the medicine bottle in his palm.

Early the next morning, when everyone set out, Qin Wan saw that Yan Chi had added a black cloak. The snow hadn’t stopped, and Yan Chi in his magnificent black robes plus the cloak, seated on horseback, looked handsome with an air of admirable nobility. Even Qin Shuang couldn’t help lifting the carriage curtain to look twice, and Qin Wan also looked twice.

Soon, Qin Shuang looked at Yan Chi then at Qin Wan, and said, “You might not believe what I’m about to say…”

Not knowing what she would say, Qin Wan played along, “What?”

Qin Shuang said seriously, “You two suit each other—”

Qin Wan was about to drink tea but hearing this, she didn’t know whether to laugh or cry, and quickly put down her teacup.

Though it was snowing, since Xiangxian was already within Yuzhou’s territory, the official road Qin Wan’s group traveled was very wide and smooth. The group hurried along, and by the time they reached the outskirts of Yuzhou City, the sky hadn’t completely darkened…

“That’s Yuzhou City! Heavens! We’re finally arriving!”

Qin Shuang’s head was almost poking out the window, and Qin Wan also looked at the majestic city in the distance.

Although Prince Yu hadn’t stayed in the capital, the previous emperor had treated him very well. Though Yuzhou City wasn’t as prosperous and wealthy as Yuanzhou, it was still the first major stronghold in the West. Thus, even just the city gate tower showed grandeur and majesty!

Qin Shuang was still excited when suddenly a group of riders galloped out from within the city gates. The leader wore brilliant red robes and was racing toward them at lightning speed. In seemingly the blink of an eye, the red-robed figure was before them. Qin Shuang stared wide-eyed at the graceful figure on horseback, hearing him say joyfully, “Seventh Brother has finally arrived!”