“Jinxiu House has two locations in the capital. This northern shop mainly serves the areas outside the Imperial City. Everything here is of the highest quality but mostly sold in whole pieces, making it naturally expensive. For common people making wedding clothes or such, wanting a few feet of good fabric, they must go to the smaller shop in the south of the city. Like the gold-threaded light gauze we just bought – if ordinary families want to make undergarments for their children or inner linings for their daughters, they can just buy a few feet there.”

Having reached the most prosperous area, Madam Hu’s group no longer rode in carriages. With one arm linked with Qin Chao Yu and Qin Xiang hovering at her side, she enthusiastically described the capital’s prosperity and wealth. She took Qin Wan Yu and the others into jewelry shops and cosmetics stores – all the places young ladies loved. After walking down two streets in the East Market, Qin Xiang and Qin Shuang acquired many items, while Qin Wan Yu gained two sets of cosmetics that Madam Hu had insisted on giving her. Unable to refuse, Qin Wan Yu could only accept with a smile.

Leaving another jewelry shop, Madam Hu frowned and said, “We should go west. With the New Year coming, you four need to add some proper jewelry. When visiting after the New Year, you’ll need to look your best.”

Speaking thus, she instructed Qin Yan, “Yan’er, have the carriages brought over. We’re going west.”

Qin Yan responded and left. Watching Madam Hu, Qin Wan Yu felt moved. Initially, she had thought this First Aunt might have some ulterior motives, but now it seemed she treated them quite generously and straightforwardly.

After a moment, the Qin family carriages arrived. Madam Hu’s group boarded and headed west.

In the carriage, Madam Hu smiled and asked, “How am I doing as your First Aunt?”

Qin Chao Yu curved her lips, “Naturally excellent. Mother is doing everything right.”

Madam Hu sighed, patting Qin Chao Yu’s hand, “You’ve become more understanding these years, even teaching me how to handle these matters. You grew up pampered by your father and me, naturally developing a proud temperament. I originally thought, well, that’s just how you are – with your father and me, we’d find you a suitable match who would treat you well. But then you got involved in palace matters. How could ordinary people survive in that place? I was very worried, but seeing how you’ve gradually changed these past few years has eased my mind considerably.”

Qin Chao Yu’s lips curved slightly, “Mother, your daughter has grown up. Please don’t worry.”

Madam Hu held Qin Chao Yu’s hand preciously in her palm, “Don’t worry. How can I not? I just feel heartache. You now keep many things hidden in your heart, and I fear you won’t tell me when you suffer grievances.”

Qin Chao Yu leaned against Madam Hu’s shoulder, “Didn’t Mother go through the same? Growing up, and getting married – naturally, there are many grievances. But now I have you and Father, and Third Brother too. That’s already so much better.”

Madam Hu sighed, “I can’t bear to part with you. I’d rather keep you for two more years, especially…”

Her voice lowered, “When I married your father, though I suffered some grievances, at least he wasn’t heartless. All these years, apart from those two serving girls at the beginning, there were no others, which spared me much worry. But you… whenever I think of your future, I don’t want you to go to that place. Look at His Majesty – countless consorts in the back palace. What good is being an Empress? The current Empress is the mistress of the inner palace, her son the Crown Prince, but is she free from worry? I hear His Majesty rarely visits her palace—”

Once on this topic, something seemed to stick in Madam Hu’s throat. She suddenly grabbed Qin Chao Yu’s hand, “Yu’er, think carefully. If you’re unwilling, I’ll speak with your father. There’s still much room in this matter.”

Qin Chao Yu gave a bitter smile and sighed, “Mother, you’re only saying this because you worry too much about me.”

Madam Hu snorted, “Isn’t that obvious? You’re my precious child – if I don’t worry about you, who should I worry about?”

Qin Chao Yu sighed again, “Mother, don’t worry. This path is my own choice. I’ve thought about what you just mentioned. Precisely because I’ve thought it through, I won’t change my mind.”

Madam Hu helplessly embraced Qin Chao Yu, looking at her exquisitely made-up face.

Meanwhile, Qin Shuang played with a rouge box inlaid with red agate, smiling broadly, “First Aunt is so good to us. This box of rouge would cost ordinary people half a year’s earnings.”

Qin Xiang also held a small box. She had been happily examining it, but hearing Qin Shuang’s words, she immediately put it in her bundle, “What’s so special about that? It’s just rouge. First Aunt will treat us even better. We’re in the capital now – don’t be so provincial like we were in Jin Zhou.”

Qin Shuang pursed her lips without responding and turned to look out the window.

People entering and leaving the city mostly went east. This was Qin Shuang’s first time going west. While the area around Loyal and Brave Marquis’s mansions was surrounded by grand-ducal and Marquis residences, the western area had less imposing nobility but more refined elegance. Passing through residential wards, the capital still seemed endless. Qin Shuang hadn’t imagined the capital could be so vast.

“The capital is truly huge, probably bigger than two Jin Zhous.” Qin Shuang was excited, finding everything novel. Soon, the residential ward’s quiet gave way to market bustle. Qin Shuang hurriedly said, “We’re almost there!”

Speaking thus, she pulled at Qin Wan Yu beside her but got no response. Turning to look, she saw Qin Wan Yu staring fixedly northwest. Qin Shuang was surprised, “What’s wrong?”

Even with this question, the usually sharp-witted Qin Wan Yu still didn’t respond.

Qin Shuang pulled her again, “Ninth Sister? What’s wrong?”

This forceful tug finally woke Qin Wan Yu, who suddenly came to and looked at Qin Shuang, “What is it?”

Qin Shuang looked at her strangely, “I called you twice with no response. What are you looking at over there?”

Following Qin Wan Yu’s gaze, her view was blocked by a row of shops along the street. Looking carefully, Qin Shuang saw a three-story vermillion building called “Phoenix Nest Tower.” She looked between Qin Wan Yu and the red building, “What are you looking at that for? What is Phoenix Nest Tower?”

Qin Wan Yu curved her lips helplessly, “Nothing, I was just thinking. I don’t know what that place is.”

Seeing Qin Wan Yu say this, Qin Shuang blinked but didn’t believe her. Qin Wan Yu was always calm and composed, typically showing no emotion, let alone strange behavior. When she did, there was certainly a reason.

Not only did Qin Shuang find Qin Wan Yu’s behavior odd, but Qin Xiang also looked at her strangely. Suddenly, as if remembering something, Qin Xiang asked, “By the way, who was that young lord Third Brother met earlier?”

Qin Shuang answered instinctively, “Young Lord Zhao from the Supporting General’s family.”

Qin Xiang immediately looked at Qin Shuang and Qin Wan Yu, “How do you two know? And does that Young Lord Zhao know Ninth Sister?”

Qin Shuang glanced at Qin Wan Yu, and seeing no reaction, said, “The person Ninth Sister saved that day was Young Lord Zhao’s subordinate.”

Qin Xiang was slightly startled, her expression changing subtly before she said with a half-smile, “No wonder…”

Her words carried implications. Qin Wan Yu’s expression cooled slightly, too lazy to respond. Qin Shuang said, “Third Brother took us to eat, never expecting to meet those people. Besides, Ninth Sister only wanted to save a life.”

“How did the saving go?” Qin Xiang’s tone was cool.

Qin Shuang raised her chin, “Naturally he was saved. The title of Jin Zhou’s Little Medical Immortal isn’t for nothing.”

Before Qin Xiang could speak, Qin Wan Yu said, “Third Brother said that person didn’t survive in the end.”

“Ah— How could that be? You saved him that day…”

Qin Shuang was very disbelieving, while Qin Xiang’s eyes showed mockery. Qin Wan Yu sighed, “The wound was severe. Once it became infected, it threatened his life. Something must have gone wrong afterward.”

Qin Shuang was silent for a moment, “How pitiful, so young too.”

Qin Wan Yu also fell silent, glancing west once more before withdrawing her gaze. Soon, the carriage stopped.

After alighting, they heard Madam Hu say, “There are several good shops here too, but being far, we don’t come often.”

The carriage had stopped on an extremely prosperous and busy street. It was nearly noon, and the street was getting crowded. Though the weather was cold, with the New Year approaching, the streets were full of people shopping for the festival. Qin Yan was directing people to park the carriages when suddenly a group of black-clothed soldiers appeared at the end of the long street.

This group of about twenty soldiers seemed to be patrolling. Madam Hu quickly looked at Qin Yan, “Is this…”

“Mother, don’t worry. They’re additional patrol soldiers from the Nine Cities Defense Camp for the New Year period.”

Madam Hu nodded, sighing, “Ah, so we should finish our shopping today and come out less often lately.”

Walking last, Qin Wan Yu watched the patrol pass by.

The crowd made way for the patrol, then began whispering discussions afterward. People’s expressions showed hints of anger and fear. Qin Wan Yu thought briefly, seeing Qin Yan also walking at the back, and couldn’t help asking, “Third Brother, still no progress on the case?”

Qin Yan nodded, “Not yet…”

Knowing Qin Wan Yu was clever and had guessed from seeing these patrols, he simply answered her.

Qin Wan Yu frowned slightly, “What kind of case is it? How long has it been?”

Qin Yan spoke softly, “Several people have died. It’s been about a month and a half.”

Several deaths, and after so long, still no progress?

Just as Qin Wan Yu wanted to ask for more details, Madam Hu called from ahead, “Wan Yu, come quickly! I think this jade pendant would suit you well. Come try it on, and this white jade bracelet too – I notice you’re not wearing any accessories.”

Qin Wan Yu hurried over, only mildly protesting, “I don’t usually like wearing these things. First Aunt, please buy them for my sisters instead.”

“Yours is yours, and they’ll have theirs too. Quick, give me your hand—”

Madam Hu was extremely enthusiastic, and Qin Wan Yu couldn’t refuse, so she complied. Madam Hu became quite excited – while Qin Chao Yu had been elegantly dressed since childhood, the three newer girls were lacking in this regard. So Madam Hu had them try everything she saw. By the time they finished the entire street, the three girls had acquired many more items. Madam Hu hadn’t noticed her fatigue while shopping, but afterward felt extremely tired. She quickly called for the carriages to return to the mansion. Throughout the trip, though Qin Chao Yu accompanied them, she bought few things, and her proud demeanor softened only around Madam Hu and Qin Yan – she barely spoke to Qin Wan Yu and the others.

Returning to the mansion, lunch was ready. Everyone was tired, so after eating they retired to their respective courtyards to rest. Qin Chao Yu and Qin Yan escorted Madam Hu back to her courtyard. Upon leaving, Qin Chao Yu said softly, “Brother, though Prince Cheng received a small punishment from His Majesty this time, His Highness the Crown Prince seems unhappy. Yesterday when I entered the palace and saw him at the Empress’s quarters, he appeared deeply worried.”

Qin Yan replied, “You must know about the capital’s case. His Highness the Crown Prince presides over the Eastern Palace, and besides discussing state affairs with His Majesty, the capital’s important matters are also his responsibility. This case was directly assigned to His Highness by His Majesty, and it’s been over a month. His Majesty previously said His Highness must find the culprit before the New Year.”

Qin Chao Yu frowned, “Only four days left.”

“Indeed, this is what concerns His Highness most right now.”

Qin Chao Yu’s steps faltered, “Brother, is there any way we can help His Highness?”

Qin Yan gave a bitter smile, “It’s difficult. I hold no official position, and Father isn’t in the Ministry of Justice. Our family really shouldn’t interfere. Besides, His Highness currently has Prefect Zheng and Lord Li by his side. If speaking of manpower, they have enough.”

“But why hasn’t the case been solved after so long? What is the Prefecture doing?”

“Sister, murder cases aren’t simple. There are many unsolved murder cases.”

Qin Chao Yu’s brows furrowed slightly, “But we can’t just let this continue. If the case isn’t solved by New Year’s Eve, won’t His Highness face His Majesty’s censure?”

At these words, Qin Yan’s heart sank.

First, the Marquis’s household had chosen to support the Crown Prince, and then Qin Chao Yu wanted to enter the Eastern Palace. Even if Qin Chao Yu didn’t say it, he should think of something. Thinking thus, Qin Yan first thought of Qin Wan Yu, but quickly showed resignation – if even he couldn’t interfere, Qin Wan Yu, being an unofficial woman, could have no role in this matter. The capital, under the Emperor’s feet, was not like Hundred Herbs Garden.

“Don’t worry yet. Prefect Zheng and Lord Li will certainly help His Highness. If His Highness faces censure over this matter, those below won’t escape involvement. Besides, Prefect Zheng is the people’s official – even without His Majesty’s censure, he would do his utmost.”

Qin Chao Yu sighed, “Prince Cheng just lost ground. If His Highness can’t solve this case for so long, Prince Cheng might find leverage to attack him. Yesterday… yesterday I heard palace servants say Consort Su is ill, and the Emperor visits her daily.”

Qin Yan gave a cold laugh, “These are just consorts’ tricks to secure favor… but His Majesty isn’t so easily fooled.” Then he added consolingly, “The New Year approaches. Prefect Zheng will investigate the case, but we still need to celebrate the New Year. Don’t worry, help Mother these days. His Highness will find his way. Rest assured, it will be solved.”

Seeing Qin Chao Yu still frowning, Qin Yan added, “I’ll discuss it with Father when he returns.”

Qin Chao Yu’s expression finally softened slightly, “Alright, thank you, Brother.”

Qin Yan laughed, “Silly, we’re family. Why thank me?”

Then, his eyes turned mischievous, “Could it be that you for His Highness…”

Qin Chao Yu raised her chin, “I’ve told Brother before, I’m determined to enter the Eastern Palace.”

Qin Yan dropped his teasing manner and patted Qin Chao Yu’s head, “I know, I know. My sister has lofty ambitions. Don’t worry, I’ll tell you as soon as there’s news.”

Qin Chao Yu made a sound of acknowledgment before returning to her courtyard.

With the New Year approaching, the mansion was busy both inside and out. While Qin Chao Yu waited for news from Qin Yan, so did Qin Wan Yu. Madam Hu had made it clear – if the case remained unsolved, they weren’t allowed to leave the mansion freely. Though this was for their good, how could Qin Wan Yu contain herself after thinking day and night about returning to the capital while in Jin Zhou?

Two more days passed. During these days, the mansion’s servants swept away dust and old things, preparing for the New Year. Qin Wan Yu only saw Qin Shu on the first night; other times, she only saw Madam Hu. On the evening of the twenty-eighth day of the twelfth month, the sisters were called to Renshou Hall for dinner. Madam Hu, showing some fatigue, said, “Your Uncle and Third Brother have been busy lately – we barely have time to eat together. I’ve been extremely busy too. They won’t return today, so let’s eat together without them. But… don’t think your Uncle doesn’t care about you.”

Qin Xiang quickly said, “How could we? First Aunt cares for us meticulously, and Uncle surely thinks of us while handling important matters.” Madam Hu smiled with satisfaction. Qin Xiang continued, “First Aunt is so busy – if you need us to do anything, please just ask.”

Madam Hu initially wanted to refuse, but then thought and said, “While Yu’er and Wan Yu can be excused, you and Shuang could indeed help me. Did you learn household management in Jin Zhou?”

Qin Xiang nodded, “I learned a little from Mother, but I’m clumsy and didn’t learn much.”

Qin Shuang directly shook her head, “I haven’t…”

Madam Hu smiled, “At your age, you should indeed learn household management.”

At these words, both Qin Xiang and Qin Shuang’s expressions changed slightly. After the New Year, they would both be eighteen – the most suitable age for marriage arrangements. Arranging marriage at eighteen, choosing an auspicious date to marry at nineteen – waiting until twenty would be somewhat late.

Qin Shuang lowered her eyes, thinking of something that weighed on her heart. Qin Xiang’s eyes moved quickly, and she immediately said, “First Aunt, if you need us to do anything, just tell us. It’s perfect for me to learn from First Aunt. Before coming, Mother said First Aunt comes from a great family – we should learn well from you.”

Everyone likes to hear pleasant words. Madam Hu patted Qin Xiang’s shoulder, “Alright, first learn how to celebrate the New Year. Come to my courtyard early tomorrow. The day after is New Year’s Eve – I’ll teach you for one day.”

Qin Xiang quickly agreed, and Qin Shuang nodded as well. Madam Hu then told everyone to start eating. They had barely taken a few bites when Nurse Yu hurried in, “Madam, the Master and Young Master have returned—”

Madam Hu was surprised, “Oh? Weren’t they not coming back?”

Nurse Yu shook her head, “No, the Marquis brought guests back, and the Young Master went with them to the outer study. The Marquis asks you to prepare tea and snacks, and bring out the tribute tea.”

“Tribute tea?” Madam Hu quickly stood up. If tribute tea was requested, the guests must be important indeed.

“You all keep eating, I’ll be back later.”

Madam Hu left hurriedly, leading people carrying tea and snacks to the outer study.

At the study’s entrance, Wu Yang was waiting at the courtyard gate. Seeing Madam Hu arrive, he immediately came forward, “Greetings, Madam.”

Madam Hu gestured toward the study with her chin, “Who’s inside?”

Wu Yang quickly replied, “Prefect Zheng and Lord Li of the Court of Judicial Review.”

One a Junior Third Rank official, one a Senior Third Rank – Madam Hu nodded, handed over the refreshments, and turned to leave.

Wu Yang led people into the courtyard, delivering the refreshments to the room.

Inside, Zheng Bai Shi sighed, “Several people mentioned this case in today’s morning court. The court was suddenly agitated, seemingly intent on questioning me – and questioning me means questioning His Highness, doesn’t it? His Majesty’s expression wasn’t good at the time. If we had any key clues it would be fine, but now we have absolutely nothing.”

Beside him, Li Mu Yun’s expression darkened, “Their intent is quite obvious. Seeing His Majesty’s deadline for His Highness approaching, they’re gradually provoking His Majesty’s anger. When time runs out, His Majesty’s great anger will seem justified.”

Qin Shu frowned deeply, “Is this case so difficult? Lord Li has no solution?”

Li Mu Yun smiled bitterly for a moment, “I’ve spent much time with Prefect Zheng these days, and indeed we have no leads.” He continued, “In my many years at the Court of Judicial Review, to be honest, I’ve rarely led investigations alone. Most times…”

His words suddenly stopped, and both Qin Shu and Zheng Bai Shi’s expressions changed slightly.

Li Mu Yun coughed lightly and sat up straight, “Pity he ultimately took the wrong path. If he were here, this case might be easier.”

Zheng Bai Shi looked at the four people in the room, including Qin Yan, “We’re all familiar here, no need to hide anything. I’ve been thinking too – if he were here, it wouldn’t be so difficult. In terms of meticulous investigation and unraveling mysteries, I’ve never seen anyone more capable. We investigate by casting wide nets, but he seemed to have a special talent, always noticing things others wouldn’t think of.”

Qin Shu narrowed his eyes in thought for a moment, “Speaking of this is useless, we don’t know how he…” He cast an almost imperceptible glance at Li Mu Yun, then continued, “If there’s no way, perhaps we should find a scapegoat to break this deadlock.”

Li Mu Yun frowned, “Marquis, that might not be possible—”

Zheng Bai Shi also said, “Yes, Marquis, though this might solve the immediate problem if Prince Cheng discovers it, it would put His Highness in an even more dangerous position—”

Qin Shu smiled bitterly, “This is my solution when there seems to be no solution. What else can we do if you can’t solve it?”

At these words, both Zheng Bai Shi and Li Mu Yun wore expressions of bitter helplessness. Qin Yan, who had been standing silently to the side, suddenly said, “My Lords, Father, I have a way to break this deadlock—”