Yue Ning’s words surprised Qin Wan greatly. No wonder Yue Ning was so upset today – it turned out Yan Ze’s eye condition was related to her!

“I’ve never heard you mention this before…” Qin Wan said.

Upon hearing this, Yue Ning smiled bitterly, “After we moved to Jin Zhou, though we maintained contact with the capital over these many years, the great distance made frequent interactions impossible. Prince Yi has always been carefree, spending many years away from the capital. Besides… this wasn’t exactly a pleasant matter. Even Grandmother has intentionally avoided mentioning it all these years.”

Qin Wan asked, “What happened back then? How was it because of you?”

Speaking of this matter, Yue Ning smiled sadly, “It was twelve years ago when I was barely six years old, still innocent and ignorant. The third Brother was six years older than me and treated me the best among all my brothers. At that time, all the younger generation were quite young – the Crown Prince, Prince Cheng, and the others were just in their early teens.”

“Third Brother had inherited Prince Yi’s temperament early on, and Princess Yi was also someone who disliked crowds. While others were learning martial arts or studying literature, Third Brother cared little for such pursuits. Thus, I spent most of my time playing with him. His gentle, jade-like disposition made him enjoy taking me along. I remember that winter day when it snowed. Father took my two elder brothers out of the city to ride horses and view the snow. I wanted to go too, but Mother wouldn’t allow it. I became angry and ran away from the Marquis residence alone. Not knowing who to find at the time, and since Prince Yi’s mansion was closest to ours, I went to look for Third Brother.”

“I deceived Third Brother, saying Mother had already given permission and asked him to take me out of the city to find Father. Third Brother believed me. He called for guards to prepare a carriage and took me out of the city. But just after leaving, a snowstorm hit. I only remember the horses suddenly going wild, galloping frantically and taking us into the western mountains. Later, the carriage overturned, and both Third Brother and I were injured.”

“The snow was extremely heavy that day. Third Brother carried me on his back through the mountains. His eyes started hurting before dark, but he didn’t say anything then. He carried me for a long distance but couldn’t find the way home. With no other choice, Third Brother led me to shelter in a mountain hollow. I was exhausted and injured that night and fell straight asleep. When I woke up the next morning, I discovered Third Brother had become blind. If the search parties from both the Prince’s mansion and Marquis’s residence hadn’t found us, we probably would have died.”

Qin Wan hurriedly asked, “Was it snow blindness?”

Yue Ning nodded, then shook her head, “It should have been, but Third Brother had always been physically weak. I don’t know if there were other issues. After we returned, I fell seriously ill. By the time I recovered, Third Brother had already been taken to Medicine Valley by Prince Yi.”

Did he start going to Medicine Valley that early?

Qin Wan thought for a moment – she had only been five or six years old then and hadn’t yet gone to Medicine Valley to study medicine.

Yue Ning nodded, “After going to Medicine Valley, we next met a year later. Third Brother had completely lost his sight by then. Prince Yi didn’t assign much blame over this matter, but I knew it was all because of me. After that, Prince Yi spent more time traveling with Third Brother and less time in the capital, supposedly wandering but seeking medical treatment. And I soon went to Jin Zhou.”

Snow blindness could indeed injure one’s eyes, causing temporary blindness, but if not treated promptly or properly, it could lead to permanent blindness. However, from what Yue Ning said, they had only been delayed for one night. After they were found, hadn’t Prince Yi immediately arranged treatment for Yan Ze?

These questions remained in Qin Wan’s heart, but seeing Yue Ning’s distressed state, she didn’t press further. Instead, she held her hand and said, “It’s alright. The Crown Prince just mentioned that the Medicine Valley physicians said his eye condition could be cured. Don’t be sad now. He’s back, and we should focus on finding a way to heal him, right?”

Yue Ning pressed her lips together and said, “But all these years, Third Brother has wasted away…”

Qin Wan replied, “That’s all in the past. I know you feel guilty, but in that case, isn’t treating his illness the most important thing now?”

Yue Ning quickly gripped Qin Wan’s hands in return, “You’re right, Qin Wan. You must cure Third Brother.”

Qin Wan smiled, “Of course, I’ll do my utmost. I’ve never seen you with red eyes before. If His Highness sees you like this, he won’t feel good either.”

Yue Ning hurriedly wiped her moist eyes, “Yes, I understand. Though Third Brother isn’t as ambitious as others, he particularly dislikes people pitying or sympathizing with him.”

Taking a deep breath, Yue Ning composed herself, “Come, let’s go to the main hall.”

Qin Wan nodded and followed Yue Ning out. Yue Ning was typically resolute, and once she made up her mind, she quickly showed no trace of distress. When they reached the main hall, they saw that Grand Princess’s eyes were also slightly red. She sat in the main seat while Yan Ze stood beside her, smiling as he listened to her speak.

Prince Yi hadn’t returned for many years, and now it was a scene of family reunion and harmony. Although Qin Wan had been summoned to the palace for medical treatment, no one was in a hurry for these few moments.

Seeing so many people present, the Empress Dowager said, “Have the Crown Prince and Prince Cheng come over too, along with the younger ones. Call them all here. We’ll have a feast later. It’s been so many years since we’ve had so many people dining together. If only the eldest and Yan Chi’s father were here too, it would be perfect.”

The Emperor naturally complied with the Empress Dowager’s wishes and immediately ordered people to summon Yan Che and Yan Qi.

The Grand Princess then said, “You came back because you knew about the Crown Prince’s upcoming wedding, right?”

Prince Yi smiled genially, “Yes, with both the Crown Prince and Prince Cheng having their weddings in succession, how could we not attend such important events? Besides, I’ve spent too little time in the capital these years and haven’t properly attended to my filial duties to the Empress Dowager. That was my fault.”

Hearing this, the Empress Dowager’s eyes grew slightly moist, “So you do know! My health is deteriorating more and more, and I don’t know how much longer I have. I just want to see the younger generation establish their families and careers.”

Upon hearing the Empress Dowager’s words, the Grand Princess became upset first, and everyone hurried to console her. The Empress Dowager then said, “If not for Wan’er, I would have passed on long ago. Don’t just say pleasant things – you all need to set my mind at ease.”

The Grand Princess asked, “This time when you went to Medicine Valley, did they send someone to return to the capital with you?”

Prince Yi nodded, “Yes, they sent a physician with us. We had hoped to seek the Medicine King’s consultation, but he went into seclusion again after the new year, so we couldn’t meet him. We only met an elder who, upon learning that Yan Ze’s mother had once been inducted under Medicine Valley’s name, greatly facilitated matters.”

Qin Wan was startled to hear this. Before Prince Yi’s return, there seemed to be no mention of such a figure in the capital. Yet today, upon his return, Qin Wan suddenly learned many things – had Prince Yi’s wife been inducted into Medicine Valley?

But earlier when Yue Ning said so much, she hadn’t mentioned Prince Yi’s wife at all…

The questions in Qin Wan’s heart grew more numerous, but in such a setting, she couldn’t ask directly.

Soon, Crown Prince Yan Che and Prince Cheng Yan Qi arrived at Shou Kang Palace.

Shou Kang Palace hadn’t been this lively for a long time. The Empress Dowager had Matron Chen instruct the imperial kitchen to set up a feast in the flower hall. Now that midsummer had arrived with its oppressive heat, palace servants had prepared ice basins in the flower hall early on. When the Empress Dowager and Grand Princess led everyone into the flower hall, they felt waves of coolness penetrating their cores.

At the feast, Yue Ning voluntarily requested to sit beside Yan Ze, attending to his every need. The Empress Dowager watched with a smile, “This girl Ning’er, usually so straightforward, now shows some feminine grace and knows how to care for others. I remember when she was little, she loved playing with Yan Ze the most.”

The Grand Princess also smiled, looking at Yan Ze and Yue Ning sitting not far away, seemingly recalling events from her youth, “From childhood, only Yan Ze would indulge her. Even Yue Jia and the other couldn’t handle her, but with Yan Ze, she was always well-behaved…”

Thinking of past events, Yue Ning also smiled, “Third Brother was never as stern as First Brother and Second Brother!”

Though Yue Jia was steady and Yue Qing Ming was bright, in their youth they were both unruly and martial-minded. Though they loved their sister, they weren’t as attentive, whereas Yan Ze was more like a proper older brother in comparison.

Everyone laughed together, and the Grand Princess’s gaze shifted, “Why don’t I see Zhen’er?”

The Crown Prince and Prince Cheng were here, along with the other princes, but one princess was missing. Hearing this, the Empress hurriedly said, “Zhen’er is feeling unwell and is probably resting in Jing Ning Palace.”

Everyone knew why Yan Zhen hadn’t come, and the Grand Princess clearly understood and didn’t ask further.

At the end of the feast table, Yan Sui and Qin Wan sat together speaking in low voices.

“Can I go see that bird?”

Qin Wan felt very guilty and thought for a moment before saying, “Of course, Your Highness can go see it. Then I’ll find a cage to confine it, lest it fly away someday. I’ve seen it flying quite high these past few days.”

Upon hearing this, Yan Sui immediately said, “No, don’t confine it… Never mind, I won’t go…”

Qin Wan then tentatively asked, “Then what if one day that bird flies away?”

A melancholy unsuited to his age appeared on Yan Sui’s face, “If it flies away, that would be good too. It would mean it’s healed, and I would be happy…” Yan Sui looked at the high palace walls outside, his eyes seeming to say that he wished he could fly too.

That golden bird had already been killed by Mo Yi, but Qin Wan couldn’t bear to tell Yan Sui the truth. Better to let him think the bird had healed its wings and flown away. This way, it would be a good memory for him.

Sitting opposite Prince Yi, Yan Che could see Qin Wan and Yan Sui, and just by reading their lips, he knew what Qin Wan was saying. Knowing the bird had been well cared for, Yan Che felt warmth in his heart, though it was a pity Qin Wan still didn’t know the bird was his. After a moment’s hesitation, Yan Che withdrew his gaze.

With Prince Yi’s return, most of the conversation at this feast centered on past events. Listening, Qin Wan understood that Prince Yi’s family indeed had an aloof temperament. After the feast concluded, Qin Wan and Prince Yi arranged for tomorrow’s medical examination at his residence.

After talking for a while longer, seeing it was getting late, everyone bid farewell. Thus, the large group departed from the palace. Outside the palace gates, everyone went their separate ways. Since Prince Yi’s mansion and An Yang Marquis’s residence were not far apart, only Yan Li and Yan Chi accompanied Qin Wan.

Qin Wan rode in a carriage while Yan Li and Yan Chi were on horseback.

Yan Li said, “Seventh Brother, haven’t you noticed that Third Brother hasn’t changed much in all these years?”

Yan Chi nodded, “Indeed.”

Yan Li continued, “Tomorrow you must escort Qin Wan to Prince Yi’s residence. I’ll go over early.”

Yan Chi agreed, and Yan Li bid farewell to Qin Wan before leaving first.

Yan Chi then rode alongside Qin Wan’s carriage. Qin Wan lifted the curtain and asked, “Was Young Lord Yan Ze’s eye injury really because of Yue Ning?”

“She told you everything?” Yan Chi nodded, “Indeed it was. Third Brother took her out of the city, and an accident occurred.” Then he added, “Because of this, everyone has treated this matter as taboo for many years. Yue Ning must feel very guilty in her heart, though Uncle Prince Yi and Third Brother are both magnanimous people and don’t blame her.”

Thinking of Yue Ning’s reddened eyes, Qin Wan felt sympathetic, “Yes, she never mentioned it before. Today I learned this matter has been buried in her heart. By the way, where is Prince Yi’s wife now? I haven’t heard anyone mention her earlier.”

Hearing this, Yan Chi’s eyes darkened slightly, “Princess Yi passed away many years ago, a year before my mother’s death. She was the daughter of the He family from Chu Province and had studied medicine at Medicine Valley in her early years. She was considered an outer disciple of Medicine Valley. Her death seems to have been related to health issues from when she gave birth to Third Brother.”

As he spoke, Yan Chi’s gaze became distant for a moment, “I don’t remember much about the older generation’s affairs, but I’ve heard others say that Princess Yi was like an immortal beauty, and many people in the capital sought her medical treatment in those days.”

Hearing this, Qin Wan felt a sense of kinship. This Princess Yi would have been her senior apprentice-sister in terms of medical lineage, though she was Qin Wan’s direct disciple while Princess Yi had never formally entered the sect.

Medicine Valley had always maintained a reclusive stance, particularly avoiding noble families. Even if aristocratic children genuinely wanted to study medicine, they mostly just studied under the elders, as the valley wished to avoid entanglement in worldly disputes. Because of this principle, Medicine Valley survived for hundreds of years without major incidents.

No wonder Medicine Valley had sent someone to accompany Yan Ze to the capital – such treatment wasn’t afforded to ordinary people.

Thinking this, Qin Wan became increasingly curious about who had come.

She arranged the time for tomorrow with Yan Chi, who escorted her to the Marquis residence before leaving.

……

The next day, Qin Wan rose early. By the appointed time, Yan Chi was already waiting outside the Marquis’s residence.

Qin Shu knew Yan Chi had arrived and wanted to receive him, but Yan Chi remained in his carriage with no intention of entering. Only when Qin Wan was about to leave did Qin Shu learn she was going to treat Prince Yi’s heir?

Qin Shu knew about the past events and wasn’t surprised, hurriedly telling Qin Wan to do her utmost.

In the carriage, Yan Chi looked somewhat fatigued.

Qin Wan quickly asked, “Did you not sleep well last night?”

Yan Chi smiled faintly and shook his head, “Not really, just worried about the unresolved military rations matter.”

Qin Wan said, “Give me your medicine pouch—”

Yan Chi raised an eyebrow and immediately pulled out the black medicine pouch from his bosom.

This pouch was made by Qin Wan for him in Yu Province. Since then, Yan Chi had carried it close to his body, but after so much time, the herbs inside needed replacing. Qin Wan took out her own medicine pouch and exchanged the herbs between the two pouches. After the exchange, she handed it back to Yan Chi, “Wear it on you, it will help.”

Yan Chi smiled, took the pouch, and preciously tucked it into his robe.

When they arrived at Prince Yi’s mansion, the doorkeeper was very respectful, directing Yan Chi and Qin Wan inside while sending someone to announce their arrival. Prince Yi’s mansion was indeed not far from An Yang Marquis’s residence – the two properties were separated only by one main street. Even walking, it took just the time of one incense stick to go from door to door. Though Prince Yi’s mansion was rarely occupied, servants maintained it, so it was immediately habitable upon his return.

As a prince’s residence, it naturally had a grand and impressive layout. Now in midsummer, flowers bloomed throughout the mansion. As Qin Wan and Yan Chi walked in, they could see many enchanting views. Soon, servants led them to the flower hall, where Yue Ning and Yan Li had already arrived—

“Qin Wan! You’re here!”

Yue Ning happily came out to greet them. Qin Wan rarely saw her so cheerful.

Qin Wan looked around but didn’t see Yan Ze, “Where is Young Lord?”

Yue Ning said, “Third Brother is inside, he’ll be out soon. It’s the new physician, you’ll never guess who came…”

Qin Wan raised her eyebrows and turned to look at Yan Chi, who also appeared puzzled. Yan Chi didn’t know who had come either. As Qin Wan wondered, two people emerged from the moon-shaped doorway on the left side of the flower hall leading to the inner chambers.

Walking in front was Yan Ze in white robes, and behind him to his left was another person also in white. When Qin Wan saw the newcomer’s face, her expression changed slightly. How could it be—

“Has Princess Yong Ci arrived?” Yan Ze asked uncertainly.

Before Qin Wan could answer, Sun Mu Qing smiled warmly at her, “Miss Qin!”

Yan Chi looked at Sun Mu Qing, also surprised that the person accompanying Yan Ze was Sun Mu Qing.

They had met Sun Mu Qing in Jin Zhou, then encountered him again at Cloud Mist Mountain, but now he had come to the capital!

And he was here to treat Yan Ze!

Yan Chi’s brows furrowed slightly.

Qin Wan finally said, “Yes, Young Lord, I’m here.” Then looking at Sun Mu Qing, “So it’s Young Master Sun who came to the capital with Young Lord—”

Sun Mu Qing stepped forward, “Yes, Miss Qin, oh no, I should call you Princess now. When His Highness mentioned last night that you would come to the mansion today to examine him together with me, I was already very happy. I had planned to come to the capital before the New Year but was delayed by that matter. Now that I’ve arrived in the capital, it’s wonderful to see you, Miss Qin.”

After saying this, Sun Mu Qing finally bowed to Yan Chi, “Greetings, Young Lord.”

Yue Ning smiled, “He told us about knowing you all. Who would have thought there would be such a connection? Most other physicians don’t like treating patients together with others, but since you already know each other, it will be much easier to collaborate.”

Naturally happy to see Sun Mu Qing, Qin Wan nodded and said, “Young Master Sun is a direct disciple of Medicine Valley. I can probably only assist Young Master Sun, but as long as we can cure His Highness’s eye condition, that’s what matters.”

Yan Li smiled, “Divine Physician Sun was just taking Third Brother’s pulse. Why don’t you examine him too?”

Qin Wan had come today for business, so she immediately nodded upon hearing this.

Yue Ning went over and grabbed Yan Ze’s hand, “Third Brother, come sit down first.”

Yan Ze was led to his seat by Yue Ning. Sun Mu Qing gestured, “Please, Princess. Don’t be modest. I heard about your reputation on the way here. As I said before, we must compare notes someday.”

Qin Wan sat down to take Yan Ze’s pulse, while Sun Mu Qing’s gaze fell openly upon her.

Yan Chi observed Sun Mu Qing, his eyes showing some obscure depth.

Seeing Qin Wan taking the pulse, everyone quieted down. Soon Qin Wan withdrew her hand and said, “May I request Your Highness to remove the white cloth from your eyes? I would like to examine your eyes.”

Yue Ning hurriedly came forward to remove the white cloth from Yan Ze’s eyes. Yan Ze habitually kept his eyes slightly closed.

Qin Wan said, “Please open your eyes wide, Your Highness.”

Yan Ze opened his eyes wide. He indeed had the phoenix eyes characteristic of the Yan family – a pair of very clear eyes, but they were lifeless. When Qin Wan waved her hand in front of his eyes, his pupils showed no reaction.

Qin Wan carefully examined Yan Ze’s eyes and conducted a physical check before nodding to Yue Ning.

Yue Ning then tied the white cloth back on Yan Ze. The cloth had a medicinal smell – presumably part of the previous treatment method.

Sure enough, Sun Mu Qing said, “The white cloth on His Highness’s eyes is from my prescription. Currently, besides daily medicine, His Highness must also apply this cloth soaked in medicinal juice to his eyes.”

Qin Wan pondered briefly, “What did Young Master Sun diagnose as the cause of His Highness’s blindness?”

Sun Mu Qing said, “I examined His Highness’s eyes earlier. His Highness became blind from snow blindness in his early years, and then some improper prescriptions were used, causing his condition to worsen. However, I’ve observed that His Highness has been receiving treatment all these years. The external obstruction has been cleared, leaving only gan accumulation in the eyes, qi stagnation, and blood stasis. Looking at His Highness’s pulse, there are also signs of liver and kidney yin deficiency, and phlegm-heat congestion.”

Then Sun Mu Qing asked, “Would the Princess like to see my prescription?”

Qin Wan nodded, and Sun Mu Qing stepped inside, soon returning with a prescription paper.

Qin Wan took it and read it slowly, understanding in her heart, “My views align mostly with Young Master Sun’s. Since there’s no major difference, let’s continue with Young Master Sun’s prescription for His Highness. However, I just noticed something – His Highness has poor blood circulation around his eyes, with signs of congestion. So I want to ask, is Young Master Sun skilled in acupuncture?”

When Sun Mu Qing heard this, his eyes lit up, “To be honest with the Princess, I had considered this method, but I’m not particularly skilled in acupuncture, so I didn’t dare to use needles rashly. Unable to use acupuncture, I had His Highness wear this white cloth daily instead.”

Qin Wan pondered for a moment, “In that case, let Young Master Sun handle the medicine, and I’ll handle the acupuncture for His Highness.”

Sun Mu Qing knew Qin Wan’s medical skills came from her father, who wasn’t a world-renowned divine physician. It was already quite strange that she had such impressive medical skills, and now she knew acupuncture too. The eyes were among the most delicate parts of the body, especially since Yan Ze’s eyes had been affected for so long – if the needles were used incorrectly, it would only make things worse.

Sun Mu Qing hesitated, but saw Qin Wan’s confident expression, clearly showing she had everything well planned.

Sun Mu Qing then nodded, “Very well, with acupuncture, we’ll surely achieve better results with less effort!”

Thus the two reached an agreement. Qin Wan couldn’t help but smile slightly. Sun Mu Qing had always focused on pharmacology, and while she also studied it, she was particularly interested in acupuncture theories. So this division of labor was most appropriate. She believed Sun Mu Qing’s prescription must be the most suitable—

Hearing this, Yue Ning quickly asked, “Then how long do you think it will take to cure Third Brother’s eyes?”

Qin Wan replied, “That cannot be determined yet, but I see that His Highness’s eyes are not beyond hope. I’ll need to perform acupuncture twice before I can make a general assessment—”

Although there was no definite answer, Yue Ning was still very pleased, “Good, I trust you. Now with Divine Physician Sun as well, we must be able to cure Third Brother’s eyes quickly!”

Yan Ze also smiled but remained very calm. His eyes had been treated for so many years, and countless doctors had confidently claimed they could cure him, but all had failed. So Yan Ze was unwilling to place too much hope now.

Qin Wan understood his attitude. In her previous life, she had seen many patients – the longer they had been ill, the less likely they were to believe doctors who claimed they could cure them. After all, if it were so easy to cure, why would they have been ill for so long?

Yan Chi asked, “When do you plan to start the acupuncture?”

Qin Wan said, “We should wait three days. I see Young Master Sun’s medicated cloth is for activating meridians and blood circulation. After three more days of application, the acupuncture will be more effective. During these days, His Highness need only take the medicinal decoction.”

Seeing Qin Wan speak with composure and confidence, and noting that Sun Mu Qing didn’t appear overly serious, everyone understood that Yan Ze’s eye condition wasn’t incurable to them, so they felt reassured.

Speaking of this, Qin Wan suddenly asked, “Was the wrong prescription used for His Highness’s eyes back then?”

Just as this question was asked, Prince Yi’s voice sounded behind Qin Wan.

“It was my fault back then.”

Qin Wan and the others immediately turned around. Indeed, Prince Yi had arrived.

Qin Wan hurriedly bowed, but Prince Yi waved his hand and said, “After he was rescued, I was anxious and used the snow blindness prescription his mother had left behind. I thought applying that medicine would help, but didn’t expect it would conflict with the medicine Yan Ze was already taking. Not only did it fail to cure Yan Ze’s eyes, but the medicine became poison, severely worsening his condition. When the Imperial Physicians came to examine him, they were helpless. I immediately set out with him for Medicine Valley, but it was already too late.”

Prince Yi’s eyes grew heavy as he looked at Yan Ze, “It was all my fault.”

Yue Ning hadn’t mentioned this, and judging by her expression now, she likely hadn’t known about this either.

Yue Ning quickly said, “No, it’s not your fault. It’s all my fault. I was too playful then, and even deceived Third Brother into taking me out. If it weren’t for me, none of this would have happened…”

Yan Ze smiled, “Enough, Father and Ning’er needn’t blame themselves. Even if I remain blind for life, what of it? Especially now that there’s hope for treatment.”

Yan Ze’s voice was as smooth as jade, somehow reassuring to hear. Yet the more lightly he spoke of it, the more bitter Yue Ning felt inside, though she couldn’t express it.

Prince Yi said, “With Divine Physician Sun and the Princess helping Yan Ze, I believe his sight will be restored soon.”

“Please be at ease, Your Highness. I will do my utmost.”

Sun Mu Qing also said, “Yes, Your Highness, please don’t worry.”

Prince Yi smiled warmly and nodded, “I just came to check on you. You young people talk among yourselves. I’ve had the kitchen prepare lunch – you’ll dine here shortly.”

Prince Yi had changed clothes today, no longer wearing yesterday’s Daoist robe, making him appear even more scholarly.

Looking at Prince Yi, then at Yan Ze, Qin Wan felt somewhat regretful but became even more determined to cure Yan Ze.

Though Qin Wan and Yan Ze weren’t very familiar yet, everyone sat in the flower hall where servants served tea. Yan Li and Sun Mu Qing started conversing first. Yan Li was skilled at conversation, and Sun Mu Qing, having grown up in Medicine Valley, had a pure mind. Whenever Yan Li brought up a topic, Sun Mu Qing could always respond. Gradually, Yan Li came to enjoy talking with Sun Mu Qing. Qin Wan occasionally added a few words, and Yue Ning sometimes interjected, while only Yan Chi and Yan Ze remained mostly silent.

Yan Chi wasn’t typically talkative, while Yan Ze maintained a smile and quietly listened.

Yue Ning took Yan Ze’s hand and placed a teacup in it, “Third Brother, have some tea.”

While Yan Li was asking Sun Mu Qing about Medicine Valley, Yan Ze lowered his voice and said, “Ning’er, you don’t need to take such care of me. These past few years, I’ve learned to do these things myself even without sight.”

Yue Ning felt a bitter lump in her throat. She couldn’t bear to see Yan Ze fumbling around just to drink tea, “Third Brother, I know you can do it yourself, but I want to help you. Isn’t that alright? We haven’t seen each other for so many years. I thought you would come to Jin Zhou earlier, but you never did. Tell me about all the places you’ve been to these years, won’t you?”

Yan Ze took a sip of tea and accurately placed it on the table beside him, then smiled and said, “Of course that’s fine. I’ll tell you if you want to hear, though they’re just ordinary matters.”

Yue Ning quickly said, “I want to hear about ordinary things too. You’ve been to so many places, you can tell me what you’ve seen…”

Before she could finish saying “what,” Yue Ning’s expression changed slightly – she had misspoken!

She had meant to ask Yan Ze to tell her about the interesting scenic spots but had momentarily forgotten that Yan Ze couldn’t see. Even if the scenery was beautiful, what did it matter if he couldn’t see it?

“Third Brother… I…”

Yan Ze suddenly smiled. His lips were very thin, particularly elegant-looking, and naturally reddish. When he smiled, Yue Ning’s heart stirred. Yan Ze said, “Ning’er, you don’t need to be so careful. I’m just a blind man – say whatever you want to say. What’s the point if you have to be so cautious with your words?”

Yue Ning felt both touched and warmed. After what happened years ago, not only did Yan Ze not blame her, but he treated her the same as before. Though he didn’t care for official circles, he loved reading travelogues and miscellanies. She remembered him saying very early on that his wish was to travel to all the famous mountains and rivers of Da Zhou. These years he had indeed traveled to many places, but his eyes were blind – he couldn’t see.

Yue Ning felt both moved and heartbroken. No one could simply accept such a major change without struggle. These years, Yan Ze must have suffered greatly to reach this state of mind. Yue Ning’s voice grew soft, “Alright, Third Brother, I understand. Then tell me, what’s the most interesting place you’ve been to?”

Yan Ze thought for a moment, “The most interesting place should be Wei Zhou Island by the East Sea…”

As Yan Ze spoke with Yue Ning, Qin Wan’s gaze fell on Yue Ning. She felt Yue Ning was different now. Not only did Yue Ning show more emotion on her face, but Qin Wan had rarely seen her so focused – focused to the point where her eyes seemed to see only Yan Ze. Somehow, this made Qin Wan think of Wei Qi Zhi.

……

Since Prince Yi’s mansion was very close to An Yang Marquis’s residence, after leaving Prince Yi’s mansion, Qin Wan went with Yue Ning to see the Grand Princess at An Yang Marquis’s residence, while Yan Chi went to the Ministry of Justice.

Once in the carriage, Yue Ning grabbed Qin Wan’s hand and said, “Tell me, can Third Brother’s eyes be cured?”

Qin Wan smiled, “Don’t worry, they definitely can be cured. When I examined him earlier, I was wondering why they hadn’t been cured in all these years. Only when Prince Yi came did I understand – using the wrong medicine was like using poison. All these years must have been spent clearing the residual toxins, which is why it took so long. Now His Highness’s eyes show no damage to the true pupils, and there are no pathological changes in the eye pupils, which proves they’ve been well maintained all these years. Don’t worry.”

Hearing this, Yue Ning let out a long breath, “Your words reassure me. You don’t know, back when Third Brother became like this, Grandmother and my parents sought countless doctors without effect. At that time, I only knew Third Brother had gone blind, didn’t think it was such a devastating matter. But as I grew older, I realized I had ruined Third Brother’s life. After I went to Jin Zhou, few people mentioned it anymore. These years, I’ve been like a coward…”

As she spoke, Yue Ning’s eyes reddened again. Looking at her, Qin Wan hadn’t known she harbored such matters in her heart.

Yue Ning was usually cold and reserved, decisive in her actions, with a spirit no less than men’s. Such a valiant woman, Qin Wan had thought her heart must be open and vast, without any sorrow. After all, given Yue Ning’s status, growing up in luxury, with a doting grandmother above and parents and two elder brothers below, what sorrows could she have?

Now it seemed she had thought too simply.

The solitude in her character was probably related to this matter buried in her heart.

Qin Wan held Yue Ning’s hand, “What happened back then was an accident, beyond your control. If you feel guilty, just do what you can to help His Highness. I’ve seen how attentive you’ve been to him these past two days—”

Yue Ning said, “I want to stay at the prince’s mansion all day, but knowing things aren’t like before, I had to leave. But from now on, I’ll go see him every day until his eyes get better.”

Then she tugged at Qin Wan’s hand, “Qin Wan, I’m counting on you this time.”

Nothing had ever made Yue Ning plead so coquettishly before. Qin Wan patted the back of her hand, “Don’t worry. I do my best for ordinary people, let alone His Highness. I’ll give it my all!”

After talking for a while, they arrived at An Yang Marquis’s gate. As soon as the carriage stopped, Qin Wan heard people talking outside.

“Ah, our Princess has returned. Look, Young Master Wei!”

Qin Wan frowned and quickly lifted the curtain to look. Sure enough, she saw Wei Qi Zhi standing with the mansion’s servants outside. Seeing Qin Wan and Yue Ning together, Wei Qi Zhi’s smile grew wider, “Oh, both Princesses are here.”

Qin Wan got down from the carriage, “Young Master Wei, are you here to deliver gifts again?”

Wei Qi Zhi waved his hand, “Not exactly gifts. I’m here to deliver fodder for that little horse. Since it was sick last time, this fodder is mixed with medicine, enough for it to eat for several days.”

Behind Wei Qi Zhi’s carriage were several large bags of fodder. Yue Ning looked at them helplessly, “The sun is so strong. Couldn’t you have had servants deliver these? Come in and rest for a while.”

It was quite late now, the sun had been westering for a while, and it was the hottest time of the afternoon. Wei Qi Zhi stood at the mansion gate with sweat on his forehead. Yue Ning and Qin Wan quickly entered the gate, and Wei Qi Zhi followed.

Just inside the gate under the tree shade, Wei Qi Zhi let out a long breath.

Seeing how hot he was, Yue Ning led him to the flower hall first and had servants bring two bowls of iced dessert. After Wei Qi Zhi drank them, he seemed to come back to life, “The Princess is so considerate. This weather is truly brutal.”

Yue Ning shook her head, “Next time, don’t deliver these things yourself. Just tell the gatekeeper – would they not let it in? Aren’t you afraid of getting heatstroke—”

Qin Wan was drinking tea nearby and felt somewhat sympathetic toward Wei Qi Zhi when she heard this. But Wei Qi Zhi smiled and said, “It’s different when I deliver it myself. How would the Princess know these fodder weren’t easy to obtain if others delivered them?”

Yue Ning raised her eyebrows, not understanding what Wei Qi Zhi meant, “Have you been particularly free lately?”

Wei Qi Zhi’s eyes darted around, “It’s alright, the subordinates handle things.”

Yue Ning shook her head, “Since you’ve become an imperial merchant, you should put more thought into it. Couldn’t you just have someone mention the fodder and let the Marquis’s people procure it?”

Though there was reason in these words, they somehow felt uncomfortable to hear.

Since Wei Qi Zhi was already here, even if these thoughts were in mind, they couldn’t be spoken, or it would make Wei Qi Zhi seem like his efforts were unappreciated.

However, Wei Qi Zhi’s smile didn’t diminish as he changed the subject, “Where were the two Princesses coming from?”

Yue Ning said, “Uncle Prince Yi has returned. We just came from Prince Yi’s mansion.”

Wei Qi Zhi was well-informed and had heard about this, so he nodded and said, “I see. With the Crown Prince’s upcoming wedding, Prince Yi has returned. Has Prince Yi’s heir returned as well?”

Yue Ning lifted her chin, “Why are you asking about Third Brother?”

Wei Qi Zhi’s eyes darted around as he glanced at Qin Wan, “Nothing, I was just asking. I’ve met Prince Yi’s heir a couple of times before—”

Yue Ning nodded, “Third Brother has naturally returned too.”

Qin Wan sighed. Wei Qi Zhi must have known about Prince Yi’s heir’s eye condition, and now seeing that she had also gone to Prince Yi’s mansion, he naturally knew she had gone to treat him, hence his questions.

After sitting for a moment, Wei Qi Zhi stood up and said, “Well then, since I’ve delivered the items, I’ll take my leave.”

As Wei Qi Zhi bid farewell, Yue Ning nodded without asking him to stay. The sun was brutal outside, and Wei Qi Zhi turned to leave.

Watching Wei Qi Zhi walk away, Yue Ning seemed to want to say something, as if feeling Wei Qi Zhi needn’t leave so early, but ultimately didn’t say anything to make him stay. She just turned to look at Qin Wan, “Don’t you think he’s strange? Going to such trouble to deliver some fodder himself – isn’t he uncomfortable in this heat?”

Qin Wan said, “Perhaps he feels that things given to the Princess should be delivered personally to show proper respect?”

Yue Ning shook her head, “I don’t know what’s wrong with him. Well, let him go. He’s a grown man, nothing will happen to him. Come, let’s go see Grandmother – we should tell her what you diagnosed…”