In the Ministry of Justice compound, Yan Chi sat with a serious expression in his designated study, listening to Bai Feng’s hushed report.
“After Minister Shen entered the capital, despite being a third-rank official, Miss Shen and Madam Shen rarely ventured out. Additionally, since the Shen family’s eldest daughter spent half the year in Medicine Valley, news about her in the capital was even scarcer.”
“Of her few outings, one was when the eldest Miss Shen attended the Dragon Boat Festival banquet at the Marquis of An Yang’s residence, accompanied by Madam Shen. The other time was when she attended the wedding celebration for the granddaughter of Wang Yang Meng, the former Left Vice Minister of Justice. On both occasions, the eldest Miss Shen appeared reserved and reclusive, causing no incidents and leaving minimal impression. As for her selection as Prince Yong’s consort, that matter likely arose after a palace banquet two years ago.”
“When I investigated, I found that the people in the Empress’s palace didn’t have a deep impression of the eldest Miss Shen. However, a minor eunuch in the Crown Prince’s service mentioned that Prince Yong must have seen the eldest Miss Shen somewhere besides the palace banquet, which sparked his interest—the decision to choose her as his consort was the Crown Prince’s idea. Minister Shen’s rank was neither particularly high nor low, and the Crown Prince convinced the Empress by gaining support from the common-born officials. In reality, the Empress didn’t approve of this marriage. She believed that although common-born officials were rising in prominence, their influence was still too limited. Moreover, many who claimed common birth relied on noble families for support. Initially, the Empress had strongly favored the eldest daughter of the Marquis of Zhong Yong.”
“The Crown Prince rarely disagreed with the Empress over the years, but he was exceptionally insistent on this matter. Therefore, the Empress ultimately yielded to his wishes. After the engagement was settled, the Shen family showed little reaction. Many who came to offer congratulations were turned away at the door. Afterward, the eldest Miss Shen entered the palace twice more – once to express gratitude and once to attend a palace banquet. The Empress, having seen more of the eldest Miss Shen, became less disapproving and later sent numerous gifts.”
“Even so, Miss Shen remained largely secluded until the Shen family incident occurred. By then, Prince Jin’s case had been open for a month. Minister Shen, as the chief investigator, was initially very active in gathering evidence. However, later, after hearing something from Prince Jin, he began to delay progress, claiming there were still questionable points. At the time, dozens of palace personnel had witnessed Prince Jin standing before Consort Jin’s corpse, so his statements naturally aroused suspicion.”
“Rumors about Minister Shen having private dealings with Prince Jin and protecting him emerged at that time. After the rumors surfaced, they naturally implicated the Crown Prince. The Empress only protected the Crown Prince and didn’t help Minister Shen, perhaps because Minister Shen was known for his unwavering integrity and had many supporters in court. Later, there was no progress in the case for nearly half a month. Others wanted to close the case, but Minister Shen insisted there were suspicious points until Li Mu Yun’s memorial appeared before the Emperor.”
“The memorial was submitted on the evening of July 18th. The Emperor summoned Li Mu Yun for a private discussion that lasted half a day on July 19th. On the evening of July 20th, in the early hours of July 21st, the Shen family incident occurred. No one knows what was written in that memorial, not even Head Eunuch Yuan. It’s said that on the evening of July 18th, the Emperor burned something in Chong Zheng Hall, and the night-duty eunuchs were ordered to bring a brazier and fire starter… I suspect what was burned was that memorial.”
Bai Feng kept his voice extremely low. Even though only he and Yan Chi were in the small study, and guards were posted outside, these matters, including the detailed investigation of Chong Zheng Hall and the Emperor’s daily activities, could not be overheard by others.
Yan Chi listened to these words, his eyes cold as water. “If it were a normal memorial, the Emperor wouldn’t have burned it.”
“Yes, I also find this point very strange. Normally, all memorials should be retained and copied by the Imperial Household Department for storage in the imperial archives. Yet this particular memorial has vanished without a trace. Moreover, Li Mu Yun never mentioned to anyone what key points he was exposing in his accusations. Because of this, some people in court privately wrote articles mocking Li Mu Yun for falsely accusing Minister Shen. However, after the Shen family’s execution and the purge of Prince Jin’s faction in the capital, no one dared speak further. Li Mu Yun himself never explained these matters…”
After Bai Feng finished speaking, the room fell into silence.
This was too unusual. If Li Mu Yun was truly upright and believed his accusation against Shen Yi was justified, then there should have been nothing unspeakable about that memorial. But if it was a false accusation, how could the Emperor allow Li Mu Yun, who was only a Junior Lord of the Court of Judicature at the time, to randomly slander a third-rank Minister of Justice?!
Yan Chi lightly tapped the desk leg. He wanted to know what was written in that memorial!
“Continue investigating that memorial. It must have passed through the Imperial Household Department’s hands – it’s just that given the Emperor’s attitude, no one dares to speak of it. Also, investigate the eldest Miss Shen further, preferably finding information about events before she entered the capital. Report everything, both major and minor matters.”
Bai Feng was somewhat startled. Investigating Prince Jin’s case and Shen Yi was understandable, but why investigate the eldest Miss Shen?
Could it be that the eldest Miss Shen might have been involved in Prince Jin’s case?
Bai Feng was shocked by his thoughts, then immediately felt it was impossible. He quickly acknowledged the order without further speculation.
Yan Chi’s phoenix eyes narrowed slightly. Since learning the secret hidden in Qin Wan’s heart, he has issued many orders these past few days…
He wanted to know everything Qin Wan had experienced in the past. When she was still Qin Wan, she had been chosen as Prince Yong’s primary consort, which greatly displeased him. When Qin Wan was still Shen Wan, the Crown Prince had chosen her, and now that Qin Wan was the Ninth Miss of the Qin family, the Crown Prince again…
Yan Chi gritted his teeth. This “coincidence” made the Crown Prince appear devoted, yet the Crown Prince of the past couldn’t protect the Shen family or her. The current Crown Prince dares not even face his feelings or make any struggle. In Yan Chi’s view, the Crown Prince was utterly unworthy of coveting Qin Wan!
“None of the subordinates who were close to Minister Shen can be found?”
Bai Feng shook his head. “Only Zhao Xun remains. He was Minister Shen’s assistant, responsible for helping record case details and organizing documents. When Minister Shen was arrested, he was also detained and questioned, but since Minister Shen hadn’t involved him in many matters, he wasn’t convicted. There were several other assistants – two were sentenced to exile and died en route, while another was directly sentenced to execution.”
Although Yan Chi hadn’t returned when the incident occurred, he still knew how much blood was shed during Prince Jin’s case. He frowned in thought, feeling everything was strange.
Whether it was the confused conclusion of the case, Prince Jin’s “suicide from guilt,” or the Emperor’s handling of Li Mu Yun’s memorial, everything seemed peculiar. No one could see the truth of Prince Jin’s case because all these incidents seemed designed to hide something…
Yan Chi was almost certain that Prince Jin’s case indeed involved palace secrets, but these secrets couldn’t possibly be the rumored affair between Prince Jin and Consort Jin.
But if not these matters, what could it be?
Just then, a knock came from outside, and a guard announced, “Your Highness, Princess Yong Ci is here to visit.”
At these words, Yan Chi’s dark eyes instantly brightened. Bai Feng noticed clearly and felt a sense of relief – although his master was alone now, fortunately, he and Princess Yong Ci were well-matched. Bai Feng turned to open the door while Yan Chi personally went to welcome Qin Wan.
Qin Wan had just passed through the second ceremonial gate of the ministry compound, led by a minor official, when she saw Yan Chi striding over to meet her. She couldn’t help but smile. Since revealing her secret, she felt increasingly close to Yan Chi. Now when their eyes met, Qin Wan always felt that Yan Chi could see straight into her heart. She no longer needed any defenses or concerns, and Yan Chi had perfectly mastered the proper boundaries – regardless of how much he learned privately, he remained open and gentle in her presence.
The rear compound was sparsely populated, and Yan Chi made no effort to hide as he took her hand. “I have something to tell you.”
Qin Wan smiled. “As it happens, I also have something to tell you.”
Yan Chi led Qin Wan to the study. Bai Feng tactfully withdrew to guard the door. Yan Chi then pulled Qin Wan into his embrace. “You go first.”
Qin Wan spoke directly, “As I mentioned to you before about Senior Brother Sun wanting to establish a cenotaph, I’ve already had Uncle Han help find a suitable location. We can go in two or three days. I was wondering if you’d like to accompany me?”
Qin Wan looked up at Yan Chi, whose eyes softened as he couldn’t resist touching her lips twice.
Qin Wan helplessly accepted the kisses for a moment before murmuring when Yan Chi pulled away, “I’m asking you about something important.”
Yan Chi smiled with great satisfaction. “Of course, I’ll go. I’m happy you asked me.”
Qin Wan looked at Yan Chi, caught between laughter and tears. This was just a small matter, but since it involved establishing a cenotaph, according to Taoist beliefs, once established, her father and mother would have a place for their spirits to return to. She wanted her parents to meet Yan Chi then.
But she hadn’t expected Yan Chi to be so happy about it…
Qin Wan asked, “What did you want to tell me?”
Yan Chi naturally didn’t ask Qin Wan about her previous encounters with the Crown Prince. Although this matter displeased him, he instinctively didn’t want Qin Wan to think about her past. After experiencing such events, her new identity was beneficial for her.
So Yan Chi only told Qin Wan about his findings regarding Li Mu Yun’s memorial. After listening, Qin Wan frowned, “I’ve had doubts for a long time. Back then, no one knew what offense Father had committed, nor what evidence Li Mu Yun had found. Now hearing what you say, this matter becomes even stranger. Unless it involved secrets, why would an emperor burn a memorial submitted by his official?”
Yan Chi nodded, “Now, only Li Mu Yun and the Emperor know what was written in that memorial.”
Qin Wan’s expression turned serious, “The Emperor is out of the question, and Li Mu Yun won’t be willing to speak either. When I met him before, he was particularly cautious about this matter, even warning me not to get involved. However, remember how he stopped mid-sentence that time? That might be the key point!”
Li Mu Yun was extremely careful with his secrecy, which meant this memorial might forever remain a mystery.
“I’ve had people continue investigating. The incident happened just over a year ago, not particularly long ago. If there’s any news, I’ll tell you.”
At Yan Chi’s words, Qin Wan felt somewhat relieved, but then another thought occurred to her, “Do you know about Prince Yi’s consort?”
“Prince Yi’s consort?” Yan Chi was surprised, not understanding why Qin Wan suddenly asked about her.
Qin Wan nodded, seeming hesitant to speak, “Yesterday at Prince Yi’s residence, I heard the Crown Prince mention matters about Prince Yi’s consort. She was originally an outer disciple of Medicine Valley, and after mastering medical arts, she saved the Emperor. But then she suddenly died from illness. Although they say doctors can’t treat themselves, she was a physician – she couldn’t have been completely unaware of any health issues. And at that time, she was only in her twenties, so there shouldn’t have been a possibility of sudden death from serious illness.”
Yan Chi focused his gaze, “You think there’s something suspicious about this?”
Qin Wan gave a bitter smile, “Maybe I’m just habitually overthinking.” Seeing Yan Chi watching her, she explained further, “From a very young age, I watched Father examine corpses and solve cases. I wasn’t scared despite my young age. Instead, like children being curious about anything new, I would follow Father’s thinking. Father saw my talent in this area and didn’t hide things from me, though he lamented I wasn’t born male. Although life is fragile, there aren’t that many accidents in this world. Especially after seeing many murder cases, whenever I heard someone had died, I would wonder if they were murdered. Over time, my suspicions grew stronger.”
Yan Chi could understand this well, and hearing Qin Wan voluntarily speak about her past made him even more pleased. “I understand what you mean, but when Prince Yi’s consort died, I was even younger. Later, Father rarely mentioned her because… Mother also passed away after that.”
Qin Wan frowned slightly, and Yan Chi gave a bitter smile, “You won’t think that Mother also…”
Qin Wan immediately looked startled, “No, no, I wouldn’t randomly speculate about the Princess Consort’s matters.”
Yan Chi curved his lips, “I know very little about Prince Yi’s consort, but I do know about Mother. She had poor health ever since giving birth to me. It wasn’t a sudden death.”
Qin Wan wrapped her arms around Yan Chi’s waist, “I understand. If you don’t know much about it, let’s forget it. I was just suddenly curious. That day, hearing Prince Yi’s heir speak, I felt that Prince Yi’s consort must have been an incredibly capable and legendary person. If she were still alive, she could have cured the heir’s eye condition earlier.”
Yan Chi gently stroked Qin Wan’s back, “Are you feeling pressured about Third Brother’s eye condition?”
Qin Wan gave a bitter smile, then suddenly looked up at Yan Chi, “Actually, sometimes I feel like the heir’s eyes have already recovered.”
“Oh?” Yan Chi was surprised, “Why do you say that?”
Qin Wan pressed her lips together, “I can’t quite explain it, it’s just a feeling. Also, neither Senior Brother Sun nor I can find any problems to treat anymore. Yet the heir still can’t see, and Yue Ning looks particularly anxious.”
Yan Chi stroked Qin Wan’s head, “You’ve already done your best. Without you, Third Brother’s eye condition would likely have dragged on even longer. Perhaps now it just needs the right opportunity.”
Qin Wan made a sound of agreement, then suddenly said, “Things are so good now…”
Yan Chi was slightly puzzled, but Qin Wan pressed her cheek against his chest and closed her eyes slightly, “I can finally call out ‘Father’ now.”
Yan Chi started, immediately tightening his arms around her, understanding Qin Wan’s meaning.
Previously, Qin Wan could only call out “Minister Shen” in front of others, but now at least she could call Shen Yi “Father” in front of him. Yan Chi held Qin Wan comfortingly, “It wasn’t easy for you to be able to say this. This is very good now.”
This was originally an earth-shattering secret, but now that Qin Wan had told Yan Chi, it was as if she had found a place to keep this shocking secret, and she felt very much at peace. “Before, I thought I would never tell another person in my entire life. I was afraid others would see me as some kind of monster.”
Yan Chi gave a light laugh, “From now on, you must not tell a third person. It’s enough that just you and I know.”
Qin Wan softly agreed, “Mm.” She would never trust anyone else the way she trusted Yan Chi!
……
……
When Qin Wan entered the palace, Yan Ze and Yue Ning were already in Shou Kang Palace.
The Empress Dowager was holding a book, reading it with great interest, and explained its origin to Qin Wan, “This is the book from when the Emperor and Prince Yi made their bet those years ago. It’s been over twenty years, and the Emperor has preserved it well. You can still see the Late Emperor’s handwriting on it.”
The Empress Dowager showed it to Qin Wan, who naturally played along very astutely. Looking at it, she saw several different handwriting styles on the chess manual. The Empress Dowager pointed them out one by one to Qin Wan, “This is the Late Emperor’s, this is the Emperor’s, and this one on the side should be Yan Ze’s father’s. Back then, the Emperor and Yan Ze’s father were quite obsessed with it.”
The Empress Dowager smiled as she spoke, “But it’s also because they both liked it. People are sometimes like this – if you’re the only one who likes something, you might not like it for long. But if there’s someone else beside you, especially when that person wants to compete with you, you’ll want to figure out how to improve.”
Qin Wan looked carefully and saw that the Late Emperor’s handwriting was strong and forceful, Prince Yi’s handwriting was elegant and flowing, while the Emperor’s writing appeared scholarly and dignified, yet with contained sharpness that was pleasing to the eye. They say handwriting reflects the person, and looking at these, it seemed true.
The Empress Dowager said proudly, “Isn’t the Emperor’s handwriting beautiful?”
Qin Wan had to say, “Very beautiful! It’s very much like the Emperor’s character.”
The Empress Dowager was satisfied, her smile growing wider, “Indeed it is. At that time, the Emperor was only in his teens, not yet twenty, and his handwriting was already this good. This is extremely rare. His character is also rare among the royal family, which is why the Late Emperor was very fond of him.”
Qin Wan added, “This is all thanks to Your Majesty’s excellent nurturing…”
The Empress Dowager smiled warmly, but thinking of Prince Gong who was also her son, she sighed, “Back then, I thought the same as the Late Emperor, believing that the eldest’s character was most suitable for the heir, and paid more attention to him. I never expected…”
The Empress Dowager’s words trailed off, but Qin Wan could hear that she was lamenting about Prince Gong, so she didn’t speak further and instead turned to discuss the chess manual with the Empress Dowager.
Yan Ze listened to their conversation thoughtfully from the side. Yue Ning leaned closer, “What are you thinking about, Third Brother?”
Yan Ze smiled, “I also saw the Emperor’s handwriting when I was young. At that time, before the Emperor ascended to the throne, his excellent handwriting was used as a model by my Hanlin tutor. Even my maternal grandfather praised the Emperor’s fine handwriting highly. After all these years, I wonder what the Emperor’s handwriting looks like now!”
Yue Ning’s eyes darkened. It would be simple to know what the Emperor’s current handwriting looked like, but unfortunately, Yan Ze couldn’t see anymore. In his mind, he could only remember the Emperor’s handwriting from over ten years ago. Meanwhile, the Empress Dowager said, “The Emperor’s handwriting is quite different now. After all, he’s older and has been in power for many years, his mindset has changed. Although his current handwriting has more presence, in my view, it has lost some of its former elegance and grace. Ah, the Emperor has had many burdens these years.”
For those in high positions, especially the Supreme Ruler, changes in mindset were inevitable. From his initial ascension to now, Yan Huai had mastered the art of rulership, and his methods and judgment were far beyond what they had been. Naturally, his handwriting and everything else had changed. The Empress Dowager’s tone carried both sighs and concern, then she added, “The Emperor is now so busy he doesn’t even have time for a game of chess with me…”
Yan Ze consoled her gently, “Even ordinary household managers find it difficult to manage their own homes well, let alone the Emperor who must manage all of Great Zhou. The Emperor has always been diligent, and those around him dare not advise him much, so naturally he’s lost interest in former pleasures.”
The Empress Dowager, already concerned, was moved by these words.
Indeed, no one around the Emperor dared to advise him, but she was his mother – he would surely listen to her words.
“This isn’t right either. Even at my age, I know to give myself some enjoyment, yet he’s become even more somber than I am.” With this thought, the Empress Dowager instructed Chen Mama, “Go to Chong Zheng Hall and see. If there are no matters to discuss tonight, tell the Emperor to come dine with me.”
Chen Mama nodded in acknowledgment. The Empress Dowager put down the book in her hand and said, “Come, Yan Ze, play a game with Imperial Grandmother!”
As the new game began, Qin Wan watched from the side for a moment before going to look for Yan Sui. However, Yan Sui wasn’t in Shou Kang Palace today. Upon asking, she learned that Yan Sui had gone to the Imperial Academy to receive lessons from Elder Bai. Qin Wan was pleased and was about to turn back when she saw a figure quickly entering Shou Kang Palace’s gate – it was Qin Chao Yu!
Qin Chao Yu was also startled when she saw Qin Wan. She knew Qin Wan was greatly favored by the Empress Dowager and was a regular visitor to Shou Kang Palace, but they had rarely encountered each other. Chen Mama came out and also saw Qin Chao Yu, hurriedly coming forward to bow, then turning to say, “Princess, you and the Crown Princess are sisters. Please attend to the Crown Princess while this servant goes to Chong Zheng Hall.”
Chen Mama was going because of the Empress Dowager’s earlier instruction, and Qin Wan naturally agreed.
Although Qin Chao Yu was the Crown Princess and resided regularly in the palace, Chen Mama was now asking Qin Wan to attend to her, immediately showing the difference in intimacy.
Qin Chao Yu came forward with a smile, “Are you here to check the Empress Dowager’s pulse today?”
Qin Wan nodded, “Yes… The Empress Dowager is currently playing chess with Heir Yan Ze. Would Eighth Sister like to go in?”
Qin Chao Yu studied Qin Wan for a moment but shook her head, “Let’s not disturb them for now. We sisters haven’t seen each other in a long time – shall we talk?”
Qin Wan nodded, and Qin Chao Yu gestured toward the side hall with her chin.
As Qin Wan walked along the corridor, entering the side hall’s door, she suddenly remembered that the last time Qin Chao Yu had seen her here with Yan Che, she had confronted her afterward. At that time, Qin Chao Yu wasn’t yet the Crown Princess. Now that Qin Chao Yu had gotten what she wanted, surely she wouldn’t lose her composure again?
As she thought this, Qin Chao Yu spoke softly, “Your wedding date with Prince Rui is approaching. How are the preparations going?”
Speaking of this, Qin Wan replied candidly, “First Aunt is helping with all the preparations, so naturally there won’t be any mistakes.”
Qin Chao Yu smiled, “Now that I’m married, Father and Mother naturally treat you as their daughter. I’ll add to your dowry then, ensuring you have a grand wedding.”
Qin Wan didn’t care about these things, but since Qin Chao Yu’s words seemed well-intentioned, she could only say, “That’s thoughtful of you.”
Qin Chao Yu paused slightly, turning to look at Qin Wan. Qin Wan stopped, somewhat puzzled, “What is it?”
Qin Chao Yu sighed, “Do you know about recent court matters?”
“The military provisions case?” Qin Wan responded quickly, and from Qin Chao Yu’s question, she also knew what she wanted to say.
Sure enough, Qin Chao Yu smiled, “It’s good that you know. Then you must also realize the Crown Prince’s current unfavorable position?”
Qin Wan nodded but didn’t speak. Qin Chao Yu glanced toward Shou Kang Palace’s main hall and said, “That day when Zhang Kai De was imprisoned, Imperial Grandmother summoned me and His Highness the Crown Prince to talk. She said Zhang Kai De’s matter had nothing to do with His Highness and told him not to protect Zhang Kai De. Do you know what this means?”
Qin Wan almost wanted to laugh bitterly, “I don’t understand political matters. Why are you telling me these things…”
“Imperial Grandmother’s meaning was that regardless of whether Zhang Kai De’s matter involved His Highness or not, His Highness couldn’t protect Zhang Kai De anymore, but His Highness’s position would not be shaken at all. Establishing the Crown Prince isn’t a small matter – since His Highness is Great Zhou’s heir apparent, she will protect him.”
Qin Chao Yu seemed not to have heard Qin Wan’s words and continued speaking on her own, “The Empress Dowager is the only one in the inner palace who stands with and protects His Highness the Crown Prince. Although I am the Crown Princess, I am not as close to the Empress Dowager as you are. So, Qin Wan, you could help both the Empress and His Highness the Crown Prince.”
Qin Wan looked at Qin Chao Yu as if she didn’t recognize her. Seeing her shocked expression, Qin Chao Yu instead smiled, “What’s wrong? I’m just asking for your help. Is that strange?”
It wasn’t surprising that Qin Wan was shocked – Qin Chao Yu was inherently a very proud person, and getting her to bow her head to anyone was as difficult as ascending to heaven.
Qin Chao Yu gave a self-mocking smile, “Don’t look at me like that. If I could avoid it, I wouldn’t want to either. It’s just that the current situation in court is very unfavorable for His Highness the Crown Prince. I am the Crown Princess but can’t help, so I will do whatever I can think of to do. It’s that simple.”
Qin Wan felt complex emotions in her heart. Looking at Qin Chao Yu’s calm expression, she suddenly realized that the former number one talented lady of the capital had lost much of the brilliance and defiance in her bearing. Her brow was even slightly furrowed as if shrouded in gloom.
Qin Wan wasn’t able to help Qin Chao Yu. Although she didn’t like her, from Qin Chao Yu’s position, her actions seemed understandable. However, regarding the Crown Prince and Empress’s matters, she felt she couldn’t interfere. No matter how much the Empress Dowager favored her, she wouldn’t let her casually comment on royal family matters. If the Empress Dowager brought it up herself, that would be different, but the Empress Dowager hadn’t mentioned anything – how could she bring it up? Moreover, Qin Wan remembered Yan Chi’s words – if these incidents were the Emperor’s strategy, the situation might be even more difficult than Qin Chao Yu imagined.
“It’s not that I won’t help. The Empress Dowager has never mentioned the Crown Prince’s matters to me. I have neither the status nor the position to plead for the Empress and His Highness the Crown Prince. Compared to me, you are the one who can help the Crown Prince. I don’t know how the Empress Dowager was before, but since I began treating her, I’ve seen that she is very soft-hearted. Your idea of approaching through the Empress Dowager is correct, but I’m sorry, I cannot overstep my bounds.”
Qin Wan’s tone was gentle, but her refusal was decisive. She didn’t even say anything like “I’ll try my best to help.”
Qin Chao Yu narrowed her eyes as she looked at Qin Wan, “If you help the Crown Prince, His Highness will remember your kindness.”
Qin Wan immediately smiled, “That’s not your true feeling, and you don’t need to use such words to test me. You’ve grown up in the capital, so perhaps in your view, everyone has many hidden thoughts. However, for me, I’ve already made my position clear. Whether you believe it or not, I can only say that you will be disappointed with each of your tests.”
Qin Chao Yu’s expression became more complex. Qin Wan speaking this way made her seem like a clown.
She pressed her lips together without speaking, but Qin Wan was studying her. After a moment, Qin Wan suddenly smiled, “I see now.”
What did she see?!
Qin Chao Yu instinctively widened her eyes, but Qin Wan’s gaze became even sharper, with a kind of all-understanding clarity. Qin Chao Yu’s face immediately flushed slightly.
Qin Chao Yu no longer looked at her, turning away with a sigh, “In this deep palace, if one doesn’t love, it’s fine, but once you love, it becomes particularly difficult. Today you’re willing to take a step back for the Crown Prince, but what extent will you have to go to tomorrow? I originally thought you saw things enough and were also after power, but I didn’t expect I was wrong.”
Qin Chao Yu’s pupils trembled, her eyes widening further. Her breathing became somewhat rapid, clearly angry from embarrassment, but she seemed unable to refute Qin Wan’s words and couldn’t speak for a long while. Qin Wan gave her another calm look and said, “I hope you won’t be disappointed.”
After speaking, Qin Wan sighed and turned to walk out of the side hall.
Qin Chao Yu stood in place, her chest heaving more violently. Not only that, but she felt her nose tingling and her eyes growing hot, with inexplicable grievance about to burst forth! And it was actually because of Qin Wan’s few words…
“I hope you won’t be disappointed.”
No one had ever said these words to her, not even her parents. A marquis’s daughter becoming the Crown Princess was the highest honor, a consolidation of the marquis family’s status. No one had considered what her initial motivation was for determining early on to become the Crown Princess.
She bore the title of the capital’s number-one talented lady and had an elite background. To others, her desire to become Crown Princess might have seemed like merely seeking a marriage worthy of her status as the capital’s top talent. But how could it be so simple and shallow?
Qin Chao Yu stood dazed in place, using great effort to suppress the wetness in her eyes.
She suddenly thought, that if she hadn’t pretended to be ill and schemed against Qin Wan, causing her to be sent to Jin Zhou, if she hadn’t harbored inexplicable jealousy and dislike toward Qin Wan, they could have been closer sisters, because only she had seen…
Qin Wan sighed again after her initial sigh, completely surprised by this revelation.
When she first returned to the capital, she discovered Qin Chao Yu’s determination to secure the position of Crown Princess. She was incomparably beautiful, proud, and eye-catching. For such a girl, naturally wanting the best of everything was normal, and wanting the best husband was only human nature. According to common thinking, the Crown Prince’s position was high and powerful, being the heir to the nation, so marrying him would naturally be the first choice. Qin Chao Yu had thus naturally made becoming Crown Princess her goal.
But Qin Wan hadn’t expected that she truly loved Yan Che.
Before today, Qin Wan had never thought of it this way. But just now, at that moment, she saw grievance and loneliness in Qin Chao Yu’s eyes, but no humiliation. She had willingly come to say these things, just to help Yan Che out of his difficulties.
Qin Wan sighed again. Her last words had been sincere.
Qin Wan returned to the warm pavilion. The Empress Dowager and Yan Ze hadn’t finished their game. Qin Wan watched for a while before hearing people outside paying respects to Qin Chao Yu. Seeing Qin Chao Yu arrive, the Empress Dowager was quite pleased and asked, “What is Yan Che doing?”
Qin Chao Yu now appeared dignified and elegant, smiling as she said, “His Highness is handling court matters in the Eastern Palace. This humble wife doesn’t know the specifics.”
The Empress Dowager didn’t mind – it would have been problematic if Qin Chao Yu, as Crown Princess, knew everything about what Yan Che was doing.
The Empress Dowager hadn’t finished her game when she looked toward Qin Chao Yu, “Are you skilled at chess?”
Qin Chao Yu smiled modestly, “I only know a little…”
Qin Wan smiled, “Your Majesty, the Crown Princess knows more than just a little. She was once called the capital’s number one talented lady, accomplished in music, chess, calligraphy, and painting.”
The Empress Dowager smiled, beckoning Qin Chao Yu to sit beside her. Pointing at the chessboard, she began discussing chess theory with Qin Chao Yu. Qin Chao Yu glanced at Qin Wan, with complex emotions in her eyes. The Empress Dowager greatly valued Yan Che and naturally had high hopes for Qin Chao Yu. Seeing Qin Chao Yu visiting frequently now, she was willing to become closer.
The afternoon passed this way. When Qin Wan and Yue Ning were about to take their leave, the Empress Dowager kept Qin Chao Yu to play chess with her.
As they left Shou Kang Palace, Yue Ning said, “You helped your Eighth Sister after all…”
Qin Wan laughed, “What help? Her chess skills are indeed excellent.”
Yue Ning smiled and shook her head without saying more. Everyone left the palace and returned to their respective residences.
The Empress Dowager’s interest had been piqued these days. She only let Qin Chao Yu return to the Eastern Palace as night was falling. Shortly after Qin Chao Yu left, the Emperor finally arrived at Shou Kang Palace. Mother and son first had dinner, then the Empress Dowager kept Yan Huai to talk. Yan Huai didn’t often come to Shou Kang Palace but was happy to accompany the Empress Dowager. He accompanied her to the warm pavilion to rest, and the Empress Dowager smiled as she instructed Chen Mama, “Go bring the chessboard…”
Chen Mama complied, and soon the chessboard was set up.
Yan Huai raised an eyebrow, “Mother wants to play chess?”
Chen Mama smiled from the side, “Your Majesty doesn’t know, but the Empress Dowager has been in high spirits these days, having Heir Yan Ze play chess with her daily. Today she even kept the Crown Princess for a game. The Empress Dowager pities your hard work and wants you to rest here a while.”
Yan Huai curved his lips, “Mother has been in good spirits lately – that’s good.” As he spoke, he reached for the white pieces, “Though I haven’t touched these in a long time.”
The Empress Dowager felt even more sympathetic, “It’s precisely because you deal with official matters all day that I asked you to come, to have a meal with this old woman and play a couple of games – that can count as rest. Otherwise, how late would you read memorials tonight?”
Yan Huai was unconcerned, “They need to be read sooner or later.”
The Empress Dowager studied Yan Huai, noticing the tiredness on his face and a streak of frost-white at his temples. She sighed and made the first move. Though they were playing chess, she also chatted intermittently with the Emperor, bringing up the matter of the Empress’s confinement. Yan Huai pondered briefly and said, “This matter isn’t urgent. You know about Zhang Kai De’s case – if the Empress were to come out now, she would likely interfere too much…”
Yan Huai was so frank that the Empress Dowager couldn’t say much more. Moreover, over the years she had known something of the Empress’s control over Yan Che and interference in court matters, which she also disliked. Thus, the Empress Dowager could only remain silent and focus on the game.
In this game, the Empress Dowager wasn’t fully focused, and since she hadn’t played with the Emperor for many days, she naturally didn’t have the mindset of definitely wanting to beat him. However, after just over fifty moves, Yan Huai was already showing signs of losing. The Empress Dowager smiled wryly, “Emperor, I may be old, but I haven’t reached the point where you need to let me win like this.”
Yan Huai said carelessly, “Son hasn’t given Mother any advantage – it’s truly because I haven’t played for so long and am out of practice.”
This game quickly determined a winner – Yan Huai truly lost. In the second game, the Empress Dowager focused more on the board, since Yan Huai had once been obsessed with chess and his skill had surpassed hers. However, this game also lasted less than two cups of tea before the outcome was decided. Compared to Yan Huai’s former chess ability, the Empress Dowager felt he had indeed regressed considerably, even abandoning the simple tactics he used to use.
The Empress Dowager glared at Yan Huai, “Last game – you must play properly, no more letting me win.”
Yan Huai laughed, “I’ve forgotten what I used to know. Son truly hasn’t been letting Mother win. Son is also getting on in years now, and my mind can only hold so much. There’s no question of letting you win or not – Mother’s skills remain sharp, and Son willingly admits defeat.”
This praise greatly pleased the Empress Dowager. In the second game, she secretly gave Yan Huai three points of advantage and even set two traps to see if he would fall for them. She thought such simple tactics would surely be spotted by Yan Huai, but unexpectedly, he fell for them, instantly losing a large group of white pieces. In chess, one needs a worthy opponent to make it interesting. The Empress Dowager’s easy victory not only made it uninteresting but also created a sense of strangeness. If Yan Huai weren’t sitting properly before her, she wouldn’t have believed his chess skills had deteriorated to this extent.
People naturally become more forgetful with age, and Yan Huai had indeed been preoccupied with many matters. But the former Yan Huai had been obsessed with chess – even if his interest had faded over the years, some subconscious habits from his dedicated study should have remained. Seeing it was getting late, after the third game, the Empress Dowager didn’t keep Yan Huai any longer. After he left, she stared at the black and white pieces on the board, deep in thought.
Was she overthinking it?
With this thought, the Empress Dowager realized she didn’t know how long it had been since Yan Huai had last played chess.
After some contemplation, she first felt she hadn’t been attentive enough to Yan Huai, then decided to find someone to inquire properly.
Although Yan Huai had been Emperor for twenty years and had many consorts, she didn’t like Feng Ling Su, and the Empress was someone who liked to focus on court matters. If asked who truly shared deep feelings and mutual understanding with Yan Huai, there wasn’t anyone. Thinking of this, the Empress Dowager sighed.
People said the Emperor favored Consort Feng, but she could see clearly – though there was favor over these many years, the Emperor remained very clear-headed on major matters, which was what pleased her most. If there was anyone the Emperor treated differently, it was probably only Consort Jin whom he had favored more genuinely, but unfortunately, she had been murdered…
The Empress Dowager sighed, feeling even more sympathetic toward Yan Huai.