When Qin Wan arrived at Zhao Hui Tower, Yan Chi was standing by the window waiting for her. Seeing no one else in the room, Qin Wan walked closer. “Why did you come so early? Is the interrogation finished?”

Yan Chi appeared energetic, his brocade robe impeccable – those unaware would never guess he hadn’t slept last night. His expression relaxed slightly. “Qing Niang confessed everything efficiently. By the time I reached the yamen, she had already explained half the story. Later, when the Shuang Qing Troupe members arrived, they answered everything asked – it went very smoothly.”

Qin Wan raised her eyebrows. “Did Qing Niang explain what happened back then?”

Yan Chi nodded, taking Qin Wan’s hand and leading her to the window-side couch. Only after sitting did he begin speaking. “She told everything. When they reached Ding Province, Qing Jun used their shared background to get close to Qing Xi. Though Qing Xi had fallen out with Qing Jun when leaving the troupe, several years had passed, and Qing Xi was kindhearted. Seeing Qing Jun’s apparent goodwill, she warmly welcomed her. During this time, Qing Jun discovered that the escort convoy would split into several routes.”

“We don’t know how Qing Jun met Pang Fu Liang and Liu Ren Li, only that Pang Fu Liang ran a martial arts school and practiced martial arts himself. Liu Ren Li’s family previously ran a medicine shop. The three conspired together, along with Qing Jun’s disciple Qing Li, following Qing Xi’s family to the post station. Qing Jun used the excuse of the troupe performing in Meng Province to meet Qing Xi again. She poisoned them from within, then worked with the others to eliminate the escort soldiers. As for Qing Xi’s family, they were tortured to death by Qing Jun and the others.”

Yan Chi narrowed his phoenix eyes. “After leaving the Shuang Qing Troupe, Qing Niang stayed with Qing Xi. Qing Xi had planned to arrange Qing Niang’s marriage to one of General Zhen Wu’s deputy commanders, but then this happened. Having experienced hardships with the troupe and seen many underworld methods, Qing Niang recognized the knockout drug’s smell. When she first felt its effects, she knew something was wrong. She tried to save Qing Xi but discovered Pang Fu Liang and others had already broken in.”

“Several skilled soldiers whose drug effects hadn’t kicked in fought back with swords. Though they wounded Pang Fu Liang and Liu Ren Li, they were ultimately killed. Qing Niang said the wounds on Liu Ren Li’s shoulder and Pang Fu Liang’s leg were from that time.”

Qin Wan frowned slightly – no wonder she had noticed something odd about Pang Fu Liang’s leg before.

“Half-affected by the drug and knowing she couldn’t change the situation, Qing Niang could only hide in a station cabinet. Pang Fu Liang’s group finished off all the soldiers, focusing on dealing with Qing Xi and demanding the convoy’s keys. They temporarily forgot about her. Before setting the fire, she escaped from the cabinet. After succeeding, they were so focused on taking the gold that they didn’t count the bodies, missing Qing Niang.”

“At that time, Qing Niang didn’t know who Pang Fu Liang and Liu Ren Li were, and she was severely injured. When she recovered and tried to track down her enemies, she couldn’t find them. Later, she first followed the Shuang Qing Troupe as they traveled around. Only after more than four years did she discover Pang Fu Liang’s existence. By then, he had achieved some success and always had guards – she couldn’t get close. Unable to find Liu Ren Li either, she could only wait. Later, she discovered the Shuang Qing Troupe visited the Pang residence annually, and by chance, she found Liu Ren Li appeared too. Only then did she learn they met regularly at the Pang residence. Subsequently, Qing Niang entered the Pang household as a wet nurse. Though the troupe came annually, she couldn’t find an opportunity when all four were together.”

“She feared targeting just one would alert the others to flee. With her strength alone, she could only wait for the right moment. Until this time – though Qing Jun didn’t come, she killed Qing Li first to lure Qing Jun. The gold they stole years ago was divided equally, then Pang Fu Liang persuaded them to invest in his inn. This is how he became the Northwest’s wealthiest merchant in just over ten years. Their annual meetings were to collect dividends. When Qing Jun couldn’t come, Qing Li collected for her. With Qing Li dead, she would naturally come herself and suspect Pang Fu Liang.”

Qin Wan listened quietly to Yan Chi’s words, then nodded. “So she killed them one by one, stirring up mutual suspicion among them, then killed Liu Ren Li when he was afraid and panicked?”

Yan Chi nodded. “Liu Ren Li seemed to have feelings for Qing Jun. That night, she disguised herself as Qing Jun and sang to lure him out. She led him to the rockery, captured him as you suggested, and threw him in the lotus pond. Liu Ren Li indeed drowned to death. She originally planned to frame Pang Fu Liang, but too many people died this time. You examined Madam Chang, and clues were discovered. As time went on, her resolve weakened. Having achieved her revenge and knowing she had committed killings, she became less careful about concealing things. Finally, she simply dealt with Pang Fu Liang personally.”

Qin Wan didn’t understand what it felt like to kill one’s enemy, but she remembered Qing Niang’s relieved expression when leaving.

“What’s next? After so long, gathering evidence won’t be easy.”

Yan Chi’s lips curved slightly. “Pang Fu Liang had Pang Yi Wu take the key to their old residence in Ding Province. My men have already gone there with the key. If I’m not mistaken, there must be something related to past events in that old residence. As you said before, someone like Pang Fu Liang would keep mementos from then as trophies of his inner pride.”

Qin Wan’s eyes brightened briefly. “So Pang Fu Liang sent Pang Yi Wu to Ding Province…”

Yan Chi gave a cold laugh. “He knew his affairs were being watched and feared being caught if he went to Ding Province himself, so he sent his son on this errand. If Pang Yi Wu obtained what he wanted, they would meet up; if caught by officials instead, he could flee alone under an alias. Quite calculating.”

Pang Fu Liang was extremely controlling, and anything he thought of in his final moments must have been very valuable. Normally, he would want to retrieve such valuable items personally, but this time he sent his son – clearly intending to use Pang Yi Wu as a scout to test if the old residence was safe.

Remembering Madam Chang’s words, Qin Wan felt even colder inside. “Such a man indeed doesn’t deserve to be a father.”

Though Yan Chi had stood outside that day when Madam Chang spoke, the door was wide open, and with his excellent hearing, he had heard most of her words. “Someone like Pang Fu Liang would use any means to achieve his goals, not even sparing his son.”

As he spoke, Yan Chi’s eyes deepened, seemingly thinking of something he didn’t continue to discuss.

Qin Wan looked at Yan Chi for a moment, but he quickly resumed his normal expression and said, “If we find something in Ding Province, that would be good. If not, we’ll need to work harder. The imperial treasury gold had inscriptions – Pang Fu Liang must have found someone to melt it down and exchange it for silver to use as capital for his rise to wealth. Though fifteen years have passed, this lead can still be followed.”

Qin Wan nodded, then asked, “When do you plan to return to the capital?”

After hearing so much, Qin Wan knew that thoroughly investigating this case would take time. When she asked, she already had an answer in mind. Sure enough, Yan Chi didn’t immediately respond, only holding her hand a bit tighter. “If this case only involved two murders, I wouldn’t need to stay. But the Great Gold Robbery case from back then had a massive impact. It happened when Father was leading the Shuo Xi Army to defend against enemies in the northwest. Because of the lost military pay, the battle lines kept extending, and the Shuo Xi Army suffered great losses. For years, this case has been a burden on Father and all the old Shuo Xi soldiers. So this time, I plan to stay and investigate all aspects of the case before returning to the capital. I had planned to return with you, but now I cannot.”

Listening, Qin Wan couldn’t help but laugh. “Your Highness speaks as if apologizing. I have thought of everything you mentioned and guessed your decision. This is your duty – it would be strange if you didn’t stay.”

Hearing Qin Wan address him as “Your Highness” again, Yan Chi frowned and sighed. “Bai Ying’s wound has healed well. With her by your side, I can rest assured. The road to the capital is all official highways – there won’t be another Yuan Province incident.”

Yu Province was the northwest region closest to the capital. The journey would take several days, all on the main roads. Not only were there no bandits or troublemakers, but the route passed through prosperous towns. Even if Qin Wan traveled alone, she wouldn’t be afraid.

“I know. I was just thinking, if the case extends past the new year, won’t Your Highness miss celebrating the new year in the capital?”

Qin Wan blinked. To her, the new year was important, but after she asked, Yan Chi showed no particular expression. “New Year… if things aren’t settled by then, nothing can be done. It’s fine.”

Qin Wan wanted to say more but, knowing Yan Chi’s character would likely prioritize public affairs, ultimately didn’t speak further.

“Seventh Brother, who are you talking to—”

Just as Qin Wan was about to ask about possible penalties for Qing Niang, Yan Li’s voice suddenly sounded outside.

Qin Wan immediately stood up, withdrawing her hand from Yan Chi’s. Yan Chi raised an eyebrow, and the next moment, Yan Li’s voice reached the doorway. “Is it Ninth Miss—”

As his words fell, Yan Li stepped inside. Qin Wan turned and gracefully curtseyed. “Greetings, Your Highness.”

Seeing her, Yan Li immediately smiled. “I knew it was Ninth Miss! Magistrate Wang said Ninth Miss discovered the wet nurse was the murderer. How did you figure it out?”

Seeing Yan Li’s excited questioning, Qin Wan’s lips curved slightly. “I didn’t discover it. His Highness the Crown Prince mentioned Qing Xi’s death, which made me think of Qing Niang. Otherwise, I probably wouldn’t have suspected her.”

Yan Li looked at Yan Chi, who also stood up. “Why are you here?”

Yan Li grinned. “I went to the magistrate’s office. Seventh Brother had just left, so I waited a while. When you didn’t return, I came here. What brought you here, Seventh Brother?”

Yan Chi naturally couldn’t say he came just to see Qin Wan, so he said, “I came to see if we could find any evidence here.”

Yan Li’s eyes brightened. “Seventh Brother, you’ve encountered the Great Gold Robbery case and solved it! Uncle Wang will be extremely, extremely pleased.”

Yan Chi’s expression remained indifferent. “Investigating this case will take some time. You should prepare to return to the capital soon.”

Yan Li started. “Seventh Brother isn’t leaving?”

“I should personally oversee this case.”

After Yan Chi said this, Yan Li understood. “Right… this case is related to the Shuo Xi Army…” His eyes darted around. “If Seventh Brother isn’t returning, I won’t either. I’ll wait and return with you.”

Yan Chi frowned slightly. “Any other time would be fine, but it’s year-end now. You should return to keep the Princess company.”

Yan Li’s lips tightened. “Mother has stayed in the Buddhist hall without coming out these past months. New Year isn’t important to her. Even if I return early, Mother won’t want me to do anything. I might as well help Seventh Brother here.”

Yan Chi seemed to consider for a moment, then seeing Yan Li’s stubborn expression, finally nodded.

Yan Li’s lips curved upward as he turned to Qin Wan. “When will Ninth Miss return?”

Yan Chi also looked at Qin Wan. He had wanted to ask privately, but Yan Li asked first.

“Third Brother said we leave tomorrow,” Qin Wan replied normally.

Yan Li’s smile deepened. “Young Master Qin is eager to return…” He glanced at Yan Chi. “During the festival season, it’s better to return early. It’s only five or six days to the capital – not far now.”

Qin Wan nodded. “Indeed. Originally we planned to reach the capital by early the twelfth month, but we’ve been delayed somewhat.”

Yan Li nodded, then suddenly asked, “Ninth Miss grew up in the capital, didn’t you?”

Qin Wan didn’t know why Yan Li asked this but cautiously nodded. “Yes.”

Yan Li’s face showed regret. “Such a pity we didn’t meet earlier. It’s good that Ninth Miss and Young Master Qin are returning first. When Seventh Brother and I return, we can continue our acquaintance.”

Qin Wan quickly nodded and curtseyed in agreement. Seeing Yan Li might continue endlessly, Yan Chi said, “That’s all. I’ll take him to search Hui Garden. You should return now.”

After a pause, Yan Chi added, “The garden will be sealed in these two days. You should leave early.”

Qin Wan responded with an “Mm” and curtseyed before withdrawing.

After Qin Wan left, Yan Li still gazed interestedly at the doorway, his clever eyes calculating something. Yan Chi frowned. “What are you planning?”

Yan Li suddenly came to, quickly smiling apologetically. “No, no, Seventh Brother misunderstands. Had Seventh Brother met Ninth Miss in the capital before?”

Yan Chi walked toward the exit, his expression unchanged as he answered, “No.”

Yan Li inhaled slightly in puzzlement. “That’s strange…”

“What’s strange?” Yan Chi glanced at Yan Li, somewhat displeased with his scrutiny of Qin Wan.

Completely missing Yan Chi’s furrowed brows, Yan Li tilted his head. “Yesterday I asked Lu Yun which branch of the Qin family Ninth Miss belonged to. Only then did I learn she wasn’t from the Marquis estate but from the second branch. I have some impressions of Second Master Qin. Though he never held office, he had quite a reputation for talent in the capital back then. I’m wondering if I’d ever met Ninth Miss before. If I had, I surely wouldn’t have had any impression at all. But if not, didn’t Ninth Miss later live at the Marquis estate? The Loyal and Brave Marquis’s estate holds one or two grand banquets yearly that all noble families must attend…”

Yan Chi frowned. “Later she was sent to Jin Province by the Marquis estate. In my view, they don’t value her much.”

Yan Li nodded. “That must be it. Ninth Miss lost her parents – she’s dependent on others wherever she goes. Remarkably, she has such bearing and beauty, and that medical skill of hers is even more astounding.”

He laughed interestedly. “Seventh Brother must know, the Loyal and Brave Marquis’s estate has a ‘First talented lady of the capital’ whom the Marquis and his wife treasure like a pearl, even considering her their first choice for the Eastern Palace. I wonder if this might change after Ninth Miss returns to the capital?”

Yan Chi’s steps imperceptibly faltered, and then his lips sank. “It won’t.”

His two words were crisp and carried a biting chill. Yan Li laughed. “True, Ninth Miss isn’t from the Marquis estate – that makes it impossible. But even if she can’t enter the Eastern Palace, just with her grace and beauty, she’s bound to have noble young masters pursuing her. Seventh Brother is staying in Yu Province – aren’t you worried?”

Among the royal clan’s younger generation, Yan Li understood Yan Chi best. After these days together, he had seen how differently Yan Chi treated Qin Wan. His words were both a reminder and teasing, but unexpectedly, Yan Chi remained unmoved, saying calmly, “How could those capital dandies catch her eye?”

Since Qin Yan had said they would depart for the capital the next day, that afternoon he indeed took Zhou Huai shopping. When they returned at dusk, besides travel necessities, they brought large boxes of gifts for Qin Wan and the others.

Qin Shuang happily ran to Qin Wan’s quarters. “Third Brother is so good to us. The pearl on the hairpin he gave me is as big as a thumb, round and lustrous – the finest I’ve ever seen. I wonder how much it cost…”

Speaking thus, Qin Shuang looked at the box beside Qin Wan. “What did Third Brother give you?”

After saying so much, Qin Shuang came to find out what Qin Wan received. Hearing this, Qin Wan casually lifted her chin, gesturing for Qin Shuang to look at herself. Qin Shuang raised her eyebrows and opened the box without ceremony. Inside lay a neatly folded snow-white fox fur cape. Qin Shuang’s eyebrows rose higher as she seemed to make some mental calculations, then sniffed lightly. “This fox fur looks fine too, but my hairpin has pearls and jade, and the pin itself is solid gold. The cost must be about the same.” Saying this, Qin Shuang contentedly closed the box lid.

Though Qin Shuang wasn’t as overbearing and unreasonable as before, the small calculations in her nature remained. Qin Wan didn’t mind – in trivial matters that caused no real harm, it was better to avoid conflict. Seeing Qin Shuang’s joy, Qin Wan smiled and shook her head. “Have you packed everything? We leave early tomorrow morning.”

Qin Shuang nodded. “All packed. There isn’t much anyway.”

As she spoke, Qin Shuang glanced toward the main room. “Guess what Fifth Sister received?”

Qin Wan didn’t even raise an eyebrow. “What?”

Seeing Qin Wan’s perfunctory response, Qin Shuang sighed. “You really… how can you not be curious at all? Among us three sisters, don’t you think she’s comparing with you too?”

Qin Wan remained unconcerned. “Let her compare.”

Qin Shuang’s brows knitted tightly. “Your attitude… there’s no dealing with you. Third Brother gave you a cape and me a hairpin – at least they’re clothes and accessories that young ladies like. But… he gave Fifth Sister a set of scholar’s tools. They’re fine items, of course, but when Zhou Huai delivered them, he said Third Brother hopes Fifth Sister will practice more calligraphy to cultivate her character.”

Hearing this, Qin Wan understood somewhat. “Third Brother is warning her?”

“Exactly.” Qin Shuang showed no schadenfreude, only sighing. “Uncle and Aunt must know about that incident by now. Who knows if others in the capital know? If they do, she really won’t be able to marry.”

After a pause, she continued, “Third Brother probably fears she won’t know her place in the capital. After all, the capital is full of noble people.”

Qin Wan didn’t know Qin Yan’s exact intentions, but it was certainly a warning to Qin Xiang.

Thinking of Qin Xiang’s recent behavior, Qin Wan sighed inwardly.

If Qin Xiang still didn’t understand propriety in the capital, there would truly be no help for her.

Meanwhile, Qin Xiang waited for Wan He with red eyes full of resentment. Wan He clutched the box from Qin Yan tightly, pleading, “Miss, you absolutely must not! This is a gift from Young Master. If you destroy it, wouldn’t that anger him? We’re about to reach the capital – if you displease Young Master at this crucial moment, who will speak up for you there?”

“Speak up for me?! Can’t you see Third Brother is increasingly disgusted with me? Who knows what he’s telling Uncle and Aunt about me! They’ll hate me before I even reach the capital!”

Wan He wanted to say that Qin Xiang’s behavior had been far too inappropriate to blame others, but as a servant, how could she dare speak such words? Instead, she counseled, “Miss, don’t think that way. Young Master is a man of honor – he doesn’t harbor such thoughts. If Miss behaves well, like before, Young Master will surely favor you.”

At the mention of ‘before,’ Qin Xiang’s throat tightened. How good had her life been at the Qin estate before? Though they were heading to the capital now, she had none of the prestige of a Qin family’s legitimate daughter. “A third Brother is a man without such thoughts, but what about those two?”

As she spoke, she tightly gripped her sleeve, her gaze shooting like an arrow through the window toward Qin Wan’s quarters.

Wan He felt utterly exhausted. “Sixth Miss grew up with you. Even if she sometimes speaks harshly, she surely wouldn’t mean you harm. And Ninth Miss has such an unassuming nature…”

“Unassuming?!” Qin Xiang laughed coldly. “Look, even you think she’s so wonderful. Her skill at winning people over is truly formidable. You say she’s unassuming, but look how both Qin Shuang and Third Brother favor her now – this is her scheming! She’s stolen everything, yet makes you all think she’s so detached…”

Wan He smiled bitterly. “Miss, you shouldn’t think this way. Such thoughts only trap you further. You should be friendly with the Sixth Miss like before, and be sisterly with the Ninth Miss too. We’re about to reach the capital where Eighth Miss awaits – she’s truly formidable. You can’t just wallow in self-pity.”

Hearing this, Qin Xiang grabbed a teacup and threw it at Wan He. “Are you saying I’m wrong?! I don’t need a servant like you – get out!”

The teacup struck Wan He’s leg, making her body tremble with pain. Meanwhile, Qin Xiang’s hands were covered in tea. Seeing Wan He about to speak again, Xiu Zhi quickly stepped forward, wiping Qin Xiang’s hands while signaling Wan He with her eyes. Wan He hesitated, then finally set down the box and left. Outside, she saw Madam Chang entering their courtyard, but Madam Chang didn’t even glance at the main room, heading straight for Qin Wan’s quarters.

The cold wind bit fiercely outside, and Wan He’s leg was both frozen and painful. She stared blankly at Qin Wan’s room, suddenly feeling deeply melancholy. She knew the status of the three young ladies had changed, with Qin Wan becoming the most favored. But this wasn’t due to scheming or fighting… yet her mistress couldn’t understand this truth.

Wan He raised her eyes to the dark sky, suddenly feeling afraid of going to the capital.

Several dozen steps away, Madam Chang knocked on Qin Wan’s door. It quickly opened, and Fu Ling looked at her in surprise. “Madam? Why have you come…”

Hearing Fu Ling’s words, Qin Wan and Qin Shuang both came to the door.

Night had fallen, and cold wind raged in the ink-black darkness. Madam Chang’s cheeks were red from the cold. Seeing Qin Wan, she hurriedly asked, “Is Ninth Miss leaving?”

Qin Wan nodded. “We depart early tomorrow morning.” After a pause, she added, “I didn’t know Madam had returned. I had planned to bid you farewell once you came back.”

Madam Chang smiled bitterly, yet seemed somewhat relieved. “I was questioned at the yamen and just returned shortly ago. When I came to count the household servants, I saw the Qin estate guards preparing carriages and learned that Young Master Qin and Ninth Miss are leaving tomorrow.”

Madam Chang pressed her lips together. “At the yamen today, Magistrate Wang didn’t pursue my wrongdoing, only saying Qing Hui Garden must be sealed. He told us to pack quickly and find another place to stay. The unrelated servants will all be dismissed. Half the Shuang Qing Troupe members have already left, and the rest will leave after questioning. I had thought, if Young Master wasn’t in a hurry, to invite him and the young ladies to a farewell meal in town tomorrow.”

Qin Wan sighed. “Thank you for your kindness, Madam. At this point, it won’t be easy for you to leave this place – you must be busy with your affairs. No need to see us off. We’ve delayed here many days; we should depart early.”

Madam Chang smiled bitterly. “We don’t have much to take. This afternoon after leaving the yamen, I had people find a private residence. Two old servants are preparing it now. I’m only taking a few clothes, and Yun’er and Jia Yan just have some toys. Everything else bearing the name ‘Pang’ – we want none of it.”

Qin Wan pondered briefly. “As long as Madam has considered everything thoroughly. Going forward with the young miss and young master, you shouldn’t let the children suffer.”

Moisture flickered in Madam Chang’s eyes. “Don’t worry, Ninth Miss. This time… thank you, Ninth Miss.”

“No need to thank me – thank Qing Niang.” Qin Wan’s voice deepened. “Did Magistrate Wang say how Qing Niang would be punished?”

Hearing this, Madam Chang’s eyes reddened further, her lips pressed tightly together, unable to speak for a long while.

Qin Wan was familiar with Great Zhou’s criminal law. Qing Niang had four lives on her hands – even with the background circumstances, the law outweighed human sentiment. The outcome would surely be grim. Qin Wan took a deep breath. “Qing Niang pitied your suffering, Madam. Take care of yourself hereafter.”

Madam Chang’s eyelashes trembled, tears immediately falling. She hastily wiped them away. “Yes, I know, I know. Our whole family was saved by her, and she’s cared for Yun’er and Jia Yan so tenderly all these years…”

As she spoke, her tears became uncontrollable. Qin Wan said sympathetically, “Don’t stand outside, Madam. Come in and talk.”

Madam Chang wiped her tears while shaking her head and stepping back. “No, no. I just came to say a few words to Ninth Miss when I heard you were leaving. The estate is in chaos – I must go oversee things. Tomorrow morning, I’ll bring Yun’er and Jia Yan to see Ninth Miss off.”

With that, Madam Chang stepped back twice, curtseyed, and left.

She was now alone, without maids or Qing Niang, not even someone to hold a lamp. Yet her slender figure stood perfectly straight in the darkness, her steps more determined than ever before.

Qin Wan and Qin Shuang remained dazed even after Madam Chang’s silhouette disappeared at the courtyard gate. After a while, Qin Shuang said hoarsely, “There are so many suffering people in this world. Thinking of it this way, I must be more grateful.”

Qin Wan sighed. “All right, rest now. We rise early tomorrow.”

Qin Shuang responded with a sound of agreement and slowly returned to her room.

After Qin Shuang left, Qin Wan turned toward her inner chamber. Fu Ling closed the door and followed with the box. Once inside, Fu Ling looked at a jewelry box on the bedside table and said, “His Highness was truly thoughtful this time, clearly showing special favor for you, Miss, and highlighting your status among the three Qin ladies. In my opinion, even if the Sixth Miss knows, it doesn’t matter. Though Sixth Miss has improved, she sometimes still… It might be better to let her know you have Young Master’s favor.”

Qin Wan responded indifferently, “Better to avoid unnecessary complications. Besides, having Third Brother’s favor now doesn’t guarantee the future. I don’t need to highlight any status. Put this jewelry box away with the others – we’ll open it when needed.”

Seeing Qin Wan’s lack of interest in the jewelry box, Fu Ling sighed again. “This set of pink jade ornaments is more beautiful and fresh than any of Miss’s other jewelry. It’s not good for Miss to always be so plain.”

Qin Wan remained unmoved. “Just put it away…”

Fu Ling looked helplessly at Bai Ying, hoping she would add some persuasion, but Bai Ying remained expressionless, showing no sign of thinking Qin Wan should dress more brightly and beautifully. Fu Ling pouted but had to comply.

After a good night’s sleep, Qin Wan woke early the next morning. She efficiently prepared herself, and soon Qin Yan had breakfast sent over. The breakfast, bought outside by Zhou Huai, was simple but filling. After eating, the group left the courtyard for the main gate. Overnight, Qing Hui Garden had become much quieter, with the usual servants nowhere to be seen.

Qin Yan said, “Madam Pang acted decisively. Last night she dismissed all unrelated servants from the garden, giving them generous compensation. Early this morning, before dawn, dozens of servants left.”

“It seems Madam Pang truly doesn’t want to stay here a moment longer.”

Qin Shuang sighed softly. “If it were me, I’d also want to leave here as quickly as possible.”

Qin Yan said, “This place is indeed inauspicious. The officials will search again shortly, and then seal it. After the case concludes, they’ll report to the Ministry of Internal Affairs to decide whether to award or sell the property.”

Qin Shuang blinked. “What about Master Pang’s vast business empire?”

As the Northwest’s wealthiest merchant, Pang had numerous inns and restaurants. Would all those Shifang Inns be sealed?

Qin Yan shook his head. “Property of condemned families must be sealed and sold. Officials will resell them – buyers can change the facade and name but continue operations. The money goes to the national treasury or administration. The buildings won’t be completely abandoned. If maintaining the original business, most new owners will hire experienced staff, so the original workers can maintain their livelihoods.”

“I see, that makes sense. The Shifang Inn in Yu Province is so grand – it would be wasteful to let it fall into ruin.” As Qin Shuang spoke, she looked up and exclaimed softly, “Ah – Madam Pang!”

Qin Wan and Qin Yan followed her gaze to see Madam Chang waiting at the gate with others – one hand holding Pang Jia Yan, the other holding Pang Jia Yun, with Pang Yi Wu standing behind her.

Though Madam Chang was only Pang Yi Wu’s stepmother, since he hadn’t committed any crimes, he naturally wasn’t detained by officials. Now, Pang Yi Wu and Madam Chang are still family. Qin Wan hadn’t expected him to come this time.

“Greetings, Young Master—” Madam Chang curtseyed first, followed by Pang Yi Wu’s bow. Except for Pang Jia Yun’s expressionless face, even Pang Jia Yan managed a proper greeting.

Qin Yan’s lips curved slightly. “Why is Madam here?”

Madam Chang smiled faintly. “Yesterday I learned Young Master would be departing for the capital today with the three young ladies. You’ve all been troubled and delayed at Qing Hui Garden. Though I can offer little else, I must at least see you off.”

Speaking thus, she turned to the only servant behind her – the old woman Qin Wan had seen keeping watch at Hui Garden’s gate before. The old woman held a long box, which Madam Chang took and offered to Qin Yan. “I have no fine gifts to offer. Young Master’s noble household wouldn’t value common items. Last night I searched through my dowry and found this ‘Hundred Steeds Painting.’ It’s the only authentic copy in existence. Please accept it, Young Master.”

Qin Yan’s eyebrows rose, and Qin Wan was also slightly startled. Qin Shuang quickly lowered her head to ask Qin Wan, “What is the ‘Hundred Steeds Painting’?”

“It’s a masterpiece by the Xia Dynasty’s famous painter Ning Dan Qing, worth thousands of gold.”

Qin Wan answered softly, and Qin Shuang immediately understood. Meanwhile, Qin Yan frowned. “How could I accept such a precious gift? I appreciate Madam’s sentiment, but please keep it. After recent events, Madam is exhausted. I hope you and the young miss and master take care. After this parting, who knows when we’ll meet again.”

But Madam Chang looked at Qin Wan. “No… this is my thank-you gift. Please, Young Master must accept it. Otherwise, I’ll be truly unsettled. Please accept it…”

Madam Chang spoke earnestly, looking between Qin Yan and Qin Wan. Qin Yan smiled wryly and glanced back at Qin Wan, finally sighing with a smile. “In that case, I won’t decline. Thank you, Madam.”

Only then did Madam Chang let out a long breath of relief. Looking around, she saw the Qin estate’s carriages lined up outside the gate. “The weather has been excellent these days. Young Master and the three young ladies should have a smooth journey back to the capital. With the new year approaching, I wish Young Master and the young ladies good fortune. Though we may rarely meet again, I hope for your peace and prosperity.”

“Take care, Madam.” Qin Yan cupped his hands.

Meanwhile, Qin Wan and Qin Shuang stepped forward to bid farewell to Madam Chang.

After a few more words, Qin Shuang looked down at Pang Jia Yan. “Young Master, I’m keeping the jade ring you gave me. If we meet again, I’ll give you an even bigger one.”

Pang Jia Yan lifted his chin. “I want the finest jade.”

Qin Shuang covered her mouth and laughed, while Madam Chang exasperatedly tapped Pang Jia Yan’s head. Qin Wan looked at the three of them, then briefly at Pang Yi Wu, speaking meaningfully, “Madam and young master are both understanding people who will surely take good care of the young miss. I only hope that after this chaos ends, Madam will find peace and good fortune. And young master…”

Qin Wan looked at Pang Jia Yan. “Young Master is exceptionally intelligent. He will surely bring honor to Madam’s household in the future.”

Pang Jia Yan stared at Qin Wan without blinking, then lowered his eyes and held Madam Chang’s hand, appearing quite obedient. Qin Wan shifted her gaze back to Madam Chang. “Madam, we part here. We’re leaving.”

Madam Chang nodded, seeing them out the door. Qin Wan’s group boarded their carriages one after another. Soon, the wheels began turning. Madam Chang’s group stood on the steps outside the gate, watching until Qin Wan’s carriage slowly disappeared down the long street.

In the silence, Pang Yi Wu’s eyes flickered as he said, “Mo… Mother, are we moving out tonight?”

Madam Chang came back to herself, her gentle expression suddenly becoming resolute as she turned to look sternly at Pang Yi Wu. “Second Young Master doesn’t want to leave? The residence will be sealed – you can’t stay. Or perhaps Second Young Master doesn’t want to come with us?”

Pang Yi Wu’s face changed slightly. “No… no, I just… can’t bear to leave…”

Contempt flashed in Madam Chang’s eyes as she turned to leave, holding Pang Jia Yun’s hand. Outside, Pang Jia Yan craned his neck to look at Pang Yi Wu. “If Second Brother doesn’t listen to Mother, be careful you don’t end up like Big Brother—”

Pang Yi Wu stumbled backward in fright. “You… what are you saying…”

Pang Jia Yan made a face at Pang Yi Wu, smiling innocently. “Second Brother is such a coward.” With that, he trotted after Madam Chang on his short legs. Pang Yi Wu stood frozen, his mind filled with images of Pang Yi Wen’s tragic death. He swallowed hard, watching their retreating figures with growing fear in his eyes.

Meanwhile, Qin Wan’s carriage had reached the end of Qing Hui Garden’s street, when suddenly, she instinctively lifted the curtain to look back. Fu Ling asked puzzled, “Miss, what’s wrong?”

Qin Wan shook her head and looked twice more before letting the curtain fall.

The wheels rolled on, turning onto Yu Province’s main street. The driver’s whip cracked urgently, and the carriage sped faster toward the city gate.

On the roof of a civilian residence near Qing Hui Garden, Yan Chi gripped the black medicine pouch in his sleeve.

Qin Wan was heading to the capital – a place of splendor and wealth, of power struggles, where danger could strike at any moment. Inexplicably, Yan Chi had a strange premonition: Qin Wan’s entry into the capital would bring an earth-shattering storm to that extravagant imperial city with her delicate frame…

{End of Volume}