Qin Wan contemplated both Meng Yao and Qin Yi before forcing a smile, “First Aunt, do you truly believe Meng Yao is suitable?”

Madam Hu responded, “To be honest, I’m not entirely certain, which is why I’m asking for your opinion, Wan’er.”

Qin Wan held Meng Yao in high regard, though she remained uncertain of Meng Yao’s thoughts. “Meng Yao is the eldest daughter of the Meng family. Though Official Meng faced demotion due to their family’s previous case, their household’s values remain steadfast. You need not worry about her character. Her scholarly achievements are beyond question, and you’ve seen her appearance yourself. I believe Meng Yao is exceptional.”

Madam Hu’s face brightened with joy. “Excellent! In that case, I shall discuss this with your First Uncle. If he raises no objections, I must begin making arrangements. Though your Fourth Brother isn’t my birth son, I care for him as my own. Having settled your Third Brother’s marriage, I cannot neglect your Fourth Brother.”

She suddenly continued, “As for you, I wish to make arrangements as well. However, your marriage requires approval from both the Empress Dowager and Imperial Princess. Even if I wished to help, I likely wouldn’t have much say. Nevertheless, Wan’er, both your elder sisters’ marriages are settled. I must ask – what are your thoughts on this matter?”

The sudden shift to her personal affairs startled Qin Wan, but she composed herself and replied, “My marriage… I haven’t considered it…”

Madam Hu seemed to have anticipated this response and sighed, “You differ from other young ladies, child. I won’t pressure you, but a young woman should have a reliable marriage prospect. Consider your First Uncle and me – we’ve spent half our lives together, blessed with both sons and daughters. At my age, I feel content with life’s joys. So, Wan’er, reflect on this carefully. You’re of suitable age for marriage discussions. You frequent the palace and surely encounter many people. If someone catches your fancy, inform me. Should I find them suitable, I can approach the Empress Dowager and Imperial Princess. Don’t feel shy. If no one interests you, I can keep watch for prospects, but I’ll only proceed with your approval.”

Madam Hu’s recent attentiveness toward Qin Wan made it difficult to refuse her gentle words. Qin Wan could only respond, “If that’s the case, allow me time to think. First Aunt, please focus on Fourth Brother and Third Brother’s matters without concerning yourself with mine.”

Madam Hu felt satisfied. Given Qin Wan’s status, her future husband would certainly hold a high position. This would bring additional support to the Marquis’s household, and as First Aunt, she would have fulfilled her duty.

After exchanging a few more words with Madam Hu, Qin Wan returned to Song Feng Chamber.

Madam Hu’s words stirred ripples in her heart, inevitably leading her thoughts to matters concerning herself and Yan Chi. However, now that she had uncovered evidence of her father’s case and confirmed his wrongful accusation, Qin Wan harbored only one thought: gathering more evidence to prove her father’s innocence. Marriage, to her, wasn’t the most pressing concern.

Moreover, Yan Chi remained entangled in the Western Military Provisions case. The Crown Prince’s wedding might require Prince Rui’s return to the capital, with all its inevitable complications. These thoughts led her to recall the Golden Feather Arrow Imperial Guards she had seen earlier…

Her heart skipped uneasily, and Qin Wan shook her head with closed eyes. Currently, evidence for her father’s case might be found first in the palace, second in the Court of Judicial Review, and third in the Ministry of Justice. Unfortunately, both institutions restricted casual entry.

Qin Wan furrowed her brow, feeling desperate yet uncertain how to breach this matter – especially given it could either disturb the court or bring disaster to the Marquis’s household and Yan Chi.

By evening, learning of Qin Shu’s return from court, Qin Wan immediately headed to the main courtyard with her attendants. In the main courtyard, Qin Shu had just finished discussing Meng Yao’s matter with Madam Hu when Matron Yu announced from outside, “My Lord, My Lady, the Princess has arrived.”

Qin Shu raised an eyebrow, “Let Wan’er enter…”

After Qin Wan entered and paid her respects, Qin Shu smiled, “Coming so late, do you have matters to discuss?”

Qin Wan replied, “First Aunt mentioned Meng Yao earlier today. As Meng Yao’s friend, I’ve given it some thought. Though the Meng family has declined somewhat, Official Meng maintains his reputation for integrity in court, and theirs remains a scholarly household. I wondered about First Uncle and First Aunt’s plans and wished to offer my assistance if needed.”

Qin Shu smiled upon hearing this. “Your First Aunt just mentioned wanting to send someone to inquire. If Official Meng approves, she plans to visit personally-“

Qin Wan interjected, “Though that sounds appropriate, Meng Yao lost her mother early. Perhaps First Uncle should visit instead.”

Qin Shu and Madam Hu exchanged glances before Madam Hu realized, “Oh my, I completely overlooked this point! If I were to visit, discussing matters with Official Meng might prove awkward. My Lord, perhaps you should visit.”

Given Madam Meng’s early passing, Madam Hu’s visit would indeed be inappropriate. Qin Shu noted, “Fortunate you mentioned this. I shall pay a visit then.”

Qin Wan inquired, “Will First Uncle go in the next few days?”

Qin Shu sighed, “Though I’m free these days, we should first send a matchmaker to inquire. Going directly would seem presumptuous, as my acquaintance with Official Meng remains superficial despite our previous encounters.”

Qin Wan’s heart stirred slightly. The Golden Feather Arrow Imperial Guards had just entered the capital, yet Qin Shu claimed court affairs were quiet. Perhaps it wasn’t a major matter?

“First Uncle’s consideration is thorough. Should I inform Meng Yao beforehand?”

Madam Hu smiled, “That would be good. Given your friendship, and since we’re pursuing this match, both parties should be happy. She may inquire about Yi’er’s character and appearance, which you can address.”

Qin Wan nodded and exchanged a few more words before taking her leave. Not far along, Bai Ying caught up and whispered, “Miss, I asked the servants in the main courtyard. They said the Lord returned quite relaxed today, spent considerable time discussing household matters with the Lady after dinner, and even mentioned not needing to attend court early tomorrow.”

These words finally eased Qin Wan’s mind. Court affairs truly remained peaceful.

She smiled, “I worried needlessly. Let’s return.”

With her doubts dispelled, Qin Wan felt relieved. Upon returning to Song Feng Chamber, she carefully placed Yan Sui’s longevity lock in her bedroom drawer, gave instructions to Fu Ling, and retired for the night.

Early the next morning, Qin Wan entered the palace again. Yesterday, she had learned considerable information about Consort Jin from Matron Su. Perhaps through Matron Su and Yan Sui, she could learn even more.

At Shou Kang Palace, the Empress Dowager greeted Qin Wan with great joy. As late summer transitioned to early autumn, the weather gradually cooled. The Empress Dowager’s health showed signs of decline, occasionally interrupted by coughs. Qin Wan checked her pulse, prescribed medicine, and massaged her shoulders and neck. As the Empress Dowager’s comfort improved, she engaged Qin Wan in a lengthy conversation, eventually noting, “With the Crown Prince and Prince Cheng married, my heart feels somewhat settled. But Yan Chi, Yan Li, you, and Ning’er remain unattached. My heart cannot rest completely. Even if I were to close my eyes one day, I would find no peace.”

Qin Wan hastily responded, “Your Majesty will surely live to a hundred years – please don’t speak this way.”

The Empress Dowager clasped Qin Wan’s hand, “Who truly lives to a hundred? You’re merely humoring this old woman. Ah, while this elderly one frets, you all remain carefree. Wan’er, you must give this serious thought. When they visit the palace in a few days, I must press this matter.”

Qin Wan smiled, “Please rest assured, I’ll keep this in mind. When I reach a decision, you’ll be the first to know.”

The Empress Dowager appeared satisfied. Feeling drowsy as noon approached, she retired for her midday rest.

As Qin Wan left the inner chamber, she spotted Yan Sui, who seemed to have been waiting for her. He immediately grabbed her hand and headed toward the palace exit. Qin Wan resigned herself, “Your Highness, where are we going?”

Yan Sui remained silent, continuing to pull Qin Wan along. As Matron Su attempted to follow with her maids, Yan Sui suddenly turned back, “You’re not allowed to come.” He then cast a glance at Bai Ying.

Matron Su smiled helplessly, looking to Qin Wan for assistance. Qin Wan reassured her, “It’s fine – he probably wants to play somewhere. I can watch him. Don’t worry, Matron. Bai Ying, wait for me here.”

After yesterday’s events, Matron Su naturally trusted Qin Wan and quickly expressed thanks as she watched Yan Sui lead Qin Wan away.

Leaving Shou Kang Palace, Yan Sui pulled Qin Wan toward the Imperial Garden, specifically choosing secluded paths. Uncertain of his intentions, Qin Wan asked, “Your Highness, where are we heading?”

Without turning back, Yan Sui led Qin Wan to an artificial mountain in the Imperial Garden. The mountain resembled a low hill, surrounded by verdant plants, with numerous caves throughout. Yan Sui pulled Qin Wan into one of the caves.

The cave entrance barely reached adult height, requiring Qin Wan to bend as she entered. “Your Highness, what place is this?”

Yan Sui, apparently familiar with the location, continued pulling Qin Wan deeper without speaking. After walking several zhangs, Yan Sui suddenly released her hand.

While bright outside, the interior remained dim and confined. After adjusting to the darkness, Qin Wan could see they stood in a hollow tunnel, its walls covered in moss from humidity. Yan Sui now crouched on the ground, seemingly digging for something. Shortly after, he rose and placed a cold object in Qin Wan’s hand.

Qin Wan’s heart jumped as she faintly made out a jade seal and a pure gold bracelet in her hand.

Yan Sui whispered, “Mother Consort’s.”

With these words, Qin Wan immediately understood – this served as another of Yan Sui’s hiding places! These seals and bracelets were Consort Jin’s belongings. Qin Wan relaxed, crouching down to ask, “Does Your Highness want me to take these out as well?”

Yan Sui nodded, “Keep them safe.”

Having already helped once, Qin Wan saw no reason to refuse. Noting how Yan Sui had brought her to this dark place, she couldn’t help but feel both amused and exasperated. “Alright. Does Your Highness have items hidden elsewhere?”

Yan Sui shook his head, “Just these.”

Qin Wan felt relieved – these small items wouldn’t prove difficult to remove.

After securing the seal and bracelet in her sleeve pocket, Qin Wan took Yan Sui’s hand and turned to leave. However, after just one step, footsteps suddenly sounded outside. Qin Wan immediately halted, and beside her, Yan Sui tensed, quickly becoming still.

Initially assuming passersby would quickly leave, they soon realized the people outside had stopped near the artificial mountain. For a moment, Qin Wan almost believed they would enter.

“Your Highness, this matter is too strange. His Majesty remains tight-lipped about it. Should we take this opportunity to have General Zheng consolidate power within the Shuo Xi Army, lest we run out of time…”

The unfamiliar male voice caught Qin Wan’s attention immediately – he mentioned the Shuo Xi Army!

“Father Emperor’s silence indicates he wishes to prevent unrest in the Shuo Xi Army. However, we can indeed make early arrangements. The Crown Prince has eyes and ears in Chong Zheng Hall, and he’ll likely learn of this soon. This gives us the advantage now. Send word to General Zheng immediately – our previous arrangements will now prove useful.”

Upon hearing Yan Qi’s voice, Qin Wan felt instant unease. As he finished speaking, her heart began racing wildly. Why would there be unrest in the Shuo Xi Army?! What had happened there?

In that instant, Qin Wan recalled the Golden Feather Arrow Imperial Guards she’d seen yesterday!

Outside, Yan Qi seemed to pause briefly before saying, “Yan Chi likely doesn’t know Prince Rui is dead.”

The words struck Qin Wan like lightning – had she heard correctly? Is Prince Rui dead? How could Prince Rui be dead?!

“Indeed, Young Lord Chi hasn’t appeared much these days. Being thousands of li from Liang Prefecture in the Northwest, he surely doesn’t know. The Golden Feather Arrow Imperial Guards brought the news, and only His Majesty knows so far. If we hadn’t placed our people in key positions, we wouldn’t have learned of this either!”

The other person’s confirmation proved Qin Wan hadn’t misheard!

Qin Wan froze in shock, feeling as if struck by five thunderbolts. They were indeed saying Prince Rui was dead!

Crouching there, Qin Wan felt her ears ringing and knees weakening. How could the mighty Prince Rui, renowned for his military achievements, be dead?! Yan Chi remained in the capital – when he learned of this, what devastating grief would he face!

Qin Wan’s breathing grew rapid, her chest tight as if pierced by a dull knife. She desperately wanted to see Yan Chi immediately, but the people outside hadn’t left, and Yan Qi continued speaking with his confidant…

Yan Qi gave a cold laugh, “The Shuo Xi Army has been under their father and son’s control for years. Though Prince Rui is dead, Yan Chi remains. Father Emperor received the news but kept it secret, intending to prevent the army’s command from falling to others. Father Emperor likely hasn’t decided to kill Yan Chi, so we shall give him a push…”

“What does Your Highness plan to do?!”

Yan Qi pondered briefly, “Have Yang Han submit a memorial immediately, suggesting that since the Western Military Provisions corruption case remains unclear, we should send Yan Chi to investigate personally. Yan Chi has long been frustrated by this unresolved matter. Once the memorial is submitted, he’ll certainly volunteer to go. Father Emperor will have no reason to object. Seeing Yan Chi’s eagerness to reach the Northwest, Father Emperor will grow suspicious of him. Then, how could he allow him to live?”

The other person hesitated, “What if His Majesty agrees but still keeps the Young Lord alive?”

Yan Qi laughed coldly, “He escaped in Yuan Prefecture last time – do you think we’ll let him have such luck again? Even if Father Emperor spares him, I won’t! Does he think he has nine lives?!”

“I understand Your Highness’s meaning. I’ll seek out Lord Yang immediately. The memorial can be submitted this afternoon. Most likely, Young Lord Chi will depart for the Northwest tonight.”

Qin Wan listened with growing horror. Prince Rui’s death remained unexplained, while Prince Cheng plotted to take Yan Chi’s life! And Yuan Prefecture he mentioned – could that be when Yan Chi was injured in Jin Prefecture?!

Even now, Qin Wan remembered the diagonal scar across Yan Chi’s back!

So even then, Prince Cheng had sought Yan Chi’s life!

Qin Wan felt both urgent and furious, her eyes reddening with rage. Yan Chi had indeed long wanted to investigate the military provisions case personally. Yang Han, as Minister of Revenue, oversaw the national treasury. Military provisions fell under both the Ministry of Revenue and the Ministry of War’s jurisdiction. How could the Emperor reject Yang Han’s memorial? Moreover… keeping Yan Chi in the capital gave no reason to move against him, but once he left, those with ill intentions could act freely. Perhaps even the Emperor himself waited for an opportunity to send Yan Chi northwest!

Cold sweat poured down Qin Wan’s forehead, her hand trembling as she held Yan Sui’s. She clenched her teeth, gripping Yan Sui’s hand so tightly it hurt, but he pressed his lips together without a sound.

The people outside finished speaking, their footsteps growing distant as they finally left the secluded spot. They surely never imagined two people hiding in the hollow cave beneath the artificial mountain.

After they left, Qin Wan’s knees weakened and she swayed. Suddenly, she snapped back to awareness and stood up abruptly – she had to find Yan Chi! Standing too quickly, she forgot the cave’s low height and struck her head hard against the stone ceiling with a loud thud.

The intense pain brought tears to her eyes but also cleared her mind.

She drew a sharp breath, not bothering to check if her head was bleeding, and turned to Yan Sui, “Ninth Prince, you must not tell anyone what we just heard, understand?”

Yan Sui stared silently, prompting Qin Wan to shake him slightly, “Your Highness! You can’t tell anyone, understand?”

Yan Sui nodded, “I know. Won’t tell.”

Qin Wan wiped her wet eyes, collected herself, and took a deep breath before leading Yan Sui out. Emerging from the dark cave, the bright light pierced Qin Wan’s eyes painfully. Between her eyes and head throbbing, she swayed again. Steadying herself against the rock wall, she took another deep breath and led Yan Sui out with measured steps.

Though Qin Wan desperately wanted to rush back to Shou Kang Palace, she maintained an unhurried pace. Palace guards and servants passing by couldn’t detect her internal anguish. With each step holding Yan Sui’s hand, Qin Wan’s rationality grew, but by the time they reached Shou Kang Palace’s entrance, her back was soaked with cold sweat.

She squeezed Yan Sui’s hand and glanced at him. Though his small face had paled, he returned her look. Qin Wan exhaled before heading into Shou Kang Palace. Just as they reached the entrance hall, Matron Su and Bai Ying hurried forward to meet them. Bai Ying rushed ahead, “Miss! The young Lord has arrived! The Empress Dowager has risen and is speaking with him now.”

Matron Su, taking Yan Sui’s hand, added, “Yes, Young Lord Chi has come.”

Qin Wan’s head thundered again. She released Yan Sui and hurried inside, only realizing her overly rapid pace when she reached the main hall’s entrance. Inside, Yan Chi sat in the lower seat, wearing a black wide-sleeved robe, conversing with the Empress Dowager. Among close associates, though his smile remained faint, it carried no coldness or distance. Seeing his curved lips made Qin Wan’s nose sting – he didn’t know about Prince Rui yet!

“Wan’er, come in quickly!”

The Empress Dowager noticed Qin Wan first. At her call, Qin Wan snapped back to awareness and entered.

Yan Chi turned, his smile deepening upon seeing Qin Wan.

The Empress Dowager smiled, “He hasn’t visited me for several days. When I asked, I learned he’d gone hunting outside the city. The deer are plump and fresh in early autumn – he’s already had some sent to the palace…”

So Yan Chi’s absence was due to hunting outside the city.

Qin Wan glanced at Yan Chi, but when their eyes met, she suddenly averted her gaze. Her lips twitched, “I… I see… Indeed, it’s… a good time for hunting.”

The Empress Dowager laughed heartily, “Yes! I can’t bear to kill the deer yet. I plan to keep it until winter when snow falls. Then we can roast it with wine, bring out last year’s snow-plum wine, invite more people, and make merry together.”

Qin Wan smiled, “That would be wonderful…”

Yan Chi’s gaze lingered on Qin Wan’s face before he spoke, “Having been away for days, I must visit the ministry. Grandmother, I’ll return to see you tonight.”

The Empress Dowager smiled warmly, “Very well, very well, go ahead.” She glanced at Qin Wan, “Wan’er, help me see him out.”

Qin Wan eagerly nodded and followed behind Yan Chi. As they left the main hall, Yan Chi stopped and looked at her, “What’s wrong?”

Qin Wan’s throat instantly constricted – she couldn’t hide her distress from Yan Chi!

But how could she deliver such news?

Qin Wan’s eyes glistened as she looked at Yan Chi, unable to speak. Her lips moved, but her throat felt stuffed with cotton, preventing any sound. Yan Chi frowned, “What is it? What’s happened?”

Qin Wan bit her lip, about to speak when she spotted Tang Fu approaching behind Yan Chi. Tang Fu smiled, “Greetings, Young Lord, Princess. Young Lord, the Crown Prince requests your presence at the Eastern Palace.”

Yan Chi raised an eyebrow, glancing at Tang Fu and then back to Qin Wan, saying, “I’ll return shortly.”

He wanted Qin Wan to wait for him.

Qin Wan looked at Tang Fu, then at Yan Chi, the words catching in her throat before she finally said, “Alright, the Empress Dowager has matters to discuss with you later. You… you must return to Shou Kang Palace.”

Suspicion flashed in Yan Chi’s eyes, but he nodded before following Tang Fu out.

Watching Yan Chi walk away, Qin Wan’s heart felt torn. Her mind raced – why had the Crown Prince summoned Yan Chi?! The Shuo Xi Army’s authority was crucial in the succession struggle. Prince Cheng had his schemes; how could the Crown Prince remain unmoved?!

Prince Cheng said the Crown Prince had placed people in Chong Zheng Hall. Since the Emperor chose to keep Prince Rui’s death secret, the Crown Prince wouldn’t rashly tell Yan Chi. Only one possibility remained – the Crown Prince summoned Yan Chi now to send him to Shuo Xi! Everyone wanted Yan Chi drawn into Shuo Xi’s chaos, everyone wanted Prince Rui’s line eliminated!

Qin Wan’s heart pounded, her palms cold with sweat. She’d previously thought Master Zhang’s warning about Yan Chi’s danger in leaving the capital referred to investigating the military provisions case. But now she realized the true catastrophe was Prince Rui’s death!

Qin Wan wiped the cold sweat from her brow, unconsciously turning back. Though her status exceeded common citizens, in the palace and court politics, she remained insignificant. How could she prevent Yan Chi from going west?!

Suddenly, Qin Wan’s eyes widened as she recalled something. Consideration and hesitation flashed in her eyes before quickly transforming into firm resolve. She gritted her teeth and strode purposefully toward Shou Kang Palace’s main hall.

Inside, the Empress Dowager reclined on her couch resting. Seeing Qin Wan return, she smiled but noticed her anxious, urgent expression. The Empress Dowager started, “Wan’er, what’s wrong?”

Qin Wan walked directly to the Empress Dowager’s couch and dropped to her knees with a thud.

The Empress Dowager sat up straight, “What’s the matter?”

Qin Wan’s eyes blazed as she looked at the Empress Dowager, “Your Majesty, regarding what you said earlier – I’ve thought it through. You once promised that if someday I found someone I favored, I could request you to bestow marriage. Your Majesty, does that promise still hold?”

The Empress Dowager immediately relaxed and smiled, “Of course it does! You had me worried something serious had happened. Wan’er, stand up and speak—”

Qin Wan shook her head, remaining kneeling, “Then Your Majesty, please bestow marriage upon me.”

The Empress Dowager’s eyebrows rose as Qin Wan urgently continued, “Please bestow marriage between me and Prince Rui’s Young Lord!”