The Powerful and Favored Coroner Imperial Concubine

Chapter 127 : Lodging in the Warm Chamber, Departure to the Capital

127: Lodging in the Warm Chamber, Departure to the Capital

"How did Your Highness enter?" Qin Wan surveyed the tightly closed doors and windows, her tone calm.

Yan Chi lifted his chin, indicating the main entrance. "I walked in through there. Last time you invited me here, so I took the liberty of waiting for you."

Qin Wan raised an eyebrow. Had he actually walked in through the main gate?

Considering this, Qin Wan shook her head. Yan Chi possessed formidable martial skills, and outside the courtyard only Wanxing remained who naturally sensed nothing. Her eyes darkened as she looked at Yan Chi. "Your Highness trespassing into private residence violates the law."

Yan Chi stood at ease. The usual vibrant man now bore faint shadows beneath his eyes. Looking closer, Qin Wan noticed mud splatters on his robe hem and boots. Huo Huaixin had mentioned he went west to apprehend a fugitive.

Yan Chi took two steps toward her. "What if there was a good cause?"

Qin Wan tilted her head up, meeting Yan Chi's gaze. "That depends on what the cause is."

"Delivering a gift, for instance?" Yan Chi looked down at Qin Wan from his height. He raised his hand. A token dropped into his palm.

Qin Wan's eyes settled on the token. It was jet black with gold lacquer painting a swallow character. In the lower right corner appeared a smaller "rui" character. This was unmistakably the Rui Prince's household token.

Qin Wan's brow furrowed slightly. "What does Your Highness intend with this?"

Yan Chi extended the token toward Qin Wan. "This is my gift to you today."

"Why give me a gift?" Qin Wan widened her eyes at Yan Chi. He did not belong to the Anyang Marquis's residence, so he had no need for gifts.

A smile touched Yan Chi's lips. "Do you know the Grand Princess belongs to the imperial clan? She is my grand-aunt. Since you are her granddaughter, does that not make you kin to me?"

Hearing this, Qin Wan found it illogical. Gazing at the token, she refused to take it. "First, Your Highness need not bring me gifts. Second, this gift is far too precious for me, Qin Wan, to accept."

Yan Chi let out a warm, rich laugh that vibrated in Qin Wan's ears, making her earlobes tingle.

Yan Chi only smiled without speaking, his gaze fixed steadily on Qin Wan's face. A few moments were bearable, but prolonged scrutiny made Qin Wan step backward. "Your Highness truly need not give me this gift..."

"This is to protect you," Yan Chi said casually.

Qin Wan looked at the black token, confused. "The sleeve arrow the Young Princess gave me can protect me. How does this token protect me? Does it hide some mechanism?"

Yan Chi's smile deepened. He seemed surprised Qin Wan could joke with him, and his mood brightened further. He shook the token. "The sleeve arrow protects against common bandits. What if you face corrupt officials?"

Qin Wan blinked. This point she hadn't considered. However...

"This journey is under the Loyal and Valiant Marquis's heir protection. We shouldn't encounter corrupt officials."

Yan Chi's eyes revealed a hint of mockery. "Do you mean Qin Yan of the Loyal and Valiant Marquis's household?"

Qin Wan nodded. Yan Chi pushed the token closer. "Trust me. This token matters more than him."

Qin Wan pondered for a moment. "This must be for use by the Rui Prince's household. It's unsuitable for me."

Yan Chi lifted his lips again. Tonight his smiles came easily, indicating excellent spirits. "You're thinking too deeply. This is merely one of many tokens used by White Phoenix and others. With this token, you represent the Rui Prince's household. Common bandits might not recognize it, but corrupt officials will certainly think twice. The northern journey takes a month. If winter storms delay you longer, northern regions in winter teem with desperate refugees and many officials who act as accomplices. This is your safeguard."

Qin Wan nodded inwardly. Her past experience confirmed winter in the north was harsh with numerous refugees. But this still did not justify accepting his gift.

Slightly shaking her head, Qin Wan said, "No, I cannot. Your words themselves serve as warning enough. I will remain vigilant. Rest assured I will take precautions along the journey."

Yan Chi raised an eyebrow. "You truly won't take it?"

Qin Wan nodded. "No merit, no reward. This gift is far too precious."

"Miss, I've placed all the… ah!"

Fuling, emerging from the inner chamber, stopped mid-sentence upon seeing Yan Chi beside Qin Wan. So late at night, and moments ago the house was completely dark. Where had Yan Chi come from in such a short time?

Fuling's face blanched with surprise and instinctive fear of Yan Chi. She lowered her head. "D-dear H-highness..."

Noticing Fuling, Yan Chi focused his attention on her. "Come here."

Fuling was startled. She raised her eyes once to confirm Yan Chi addressed her, then cautiously approached with utmost respect. Yan Chi handed Fuling the token. "This is for your mistress. Keep it safe. If lost, I hold you responsible."

"Your Highness." Qin Wan moved to intervene as Fuling, head lowered, raised her hands to receive the token.

Qin Wan seized Fuling's wrist, took the token back, and returned it to Yan Chi. "Your Highness, I truly cannot accept this."

Yan Chi retreated a step then looked at Fuling. "Do you remember what I just said?"

Unaware of the situation, Fuling who feared no one except Yan Chi spoke rapidly when questioned. "Keep it safe for the Young Miss, if lost the fault is mine!"

Satisfied with Fuling's quick response and perfect recall, Yan Chi's eyes warmed. He glanced at Qin Wan again, his phoenix eyes narrowing slightly. "I only hope you won't need it. But if trouble arises, don't hesitate."

Qin Wan pressed her lips tightly. "Your Highness..."

Qin Wan still felt uneasy. This Rui Prince's household token might cause trouble for Yan Chi.

Yan Chi sighed, the fatigue showing deeper on his face. He glanced around the room then pointed at the long sofa by the window. "May I rest on your sofa tonight?"

Qin Wan was taken aback. "What does Your Highness intend?"

Yan Chi tugged at his collar. "Tomorrow morning I return west. The deputy general escaped this time. I must wait three days before returning, by which time you will have departed."

Qin Wan's heart suddenly tightened. "Why does Your Highness..."

Before she could finish "why," Yan Chi settled onto the sofa. The sofa held cushions; it was Qin Wan's occasional resting place, though now cluttered with a desk. Qin Wan regarded Yan Chi's obvious exhaustion with exasperation. "Your Highness... why not return to the Marquis's residence?"

Yan Chi brushed dust from his garments. "Traveling back and forth wastes hours. They don't know I returned. Returning at night would cause unnecessary fuss."

After a slight pause, Yan Chi glanced sideways at Qin Wan. "Or is there a problem with staying?"

Yan Chi appeared calm, but his eyes held a subtle darkness. As if a single wrong word from Qin Wan would disappoint him. Looking at him, then at the night sky outside, Qin Wan considered he'd entered without anyone knowing. Clenching her teeth, she said, "Your Highness may stay. However..."

Seeming utterly exhausted, Yan Chi seemed to wait specifically for Qin Wan to say "stay." As soon as the word left her lips, he swept the desk aside. In that instant, he seemed to shed all his bearing, leaning back wearily against the sofa. "Rest assured, no one will know I am here. I will not step outside this Warm Chamber."

Qin Wan raised an eyebrow. She naturally trusted him on this point.

Watching Yan Chi's extreme weariness, Qin Wan sighed. This was improper, but she could not voice refusal. She turned to Fuling. "Bring blankets and pillows." Then she looked at Yan Chi. "Will Your Highness wash up? Will you dine?"

Yan Chi straightened, raising his hand to undo his collar. Qin Wan immediately widened her eyes, instinctively turning away.

A low chuckle sounded from Yan Chi. "No meal, no washing. Three sleepless nights. I just need to rest here. Must return tomorrow."

Meanwhile, Fuling brought cushions and blankets, standing hesitant before Qin Wan. Qin Wan glared at her, took the bedding, and quickly placed it on the sofa. She spoke no more, avoided looking at Yan Chi entirely, and turned toward the door. Fuling had already fled outside, closing the door behind her.

"Take care on your journey."

Just before the door shut, Qin Wan heard these final words. She responded with "Mmm" toward the closed door, then walked toward the main hall. After a few steps she turned back, but the Warm Chamber showed no activity. Suppressing her urge to eavesdrop outside the door, Qin Wan pressed her lips and returned to the inner chamber. At the doorway, Fuling stood distressed.

"Miss."

"Is the Prince Heir your master or am I?"

Qin Wan felt the token's weight in her hand. Strangely, it seemed to carry warmth from Yan Chi's presence. Angrily she sat by the bed, glaring at Fuling. Fuling approached with a pitiful expression. "Miss, I didn't decide on my own. The Prince Heir is just... very frightening. I have such a small courage. How could I refuse the Prince Heir..."

Fuling squatted beside Qin Wan, looking up pleadingly. She would have knelt if necessary. "Miss, the Prince Heir sleeps in the Warm Chamber now. What should we do? If anyone discovers this, your reputation will surely suffer."

Qin Wan's brow wrinkled. She could vent anger at Fuling but found no words. She shouldn't have let Yan Chi stay. Yet inexplicably, she couldn't voice refusal. Keeping him here risked scandal, but now he had stayed, could she order him out?

Clutching the token tightly, Qin Wan's frown deepened. "Go tell Wanxing to watch the courtyard entrance. If anyone comes, block them first then report immediately. Also, listen at the Warm Chamber."

Fuling shrank back. "I dare not."

Qin Wan sighed deeply. Why did Fuling fear Yan Chi like a monster? Worse, she obeyed Yan Chi without consulting Qin Wan first. This was unacceptable!

Qin Wan's eyes narrowed. "Will you go or not?"

Seeing Qin Wan's rare anger, Fuling hurriedly stood. "I will go, I will go right now."

Fuling departed swiftly. Qin Wan looked at the token in her palm. Mixed emotions stirred within her. Yan Chi had returned despite his exhaustion solely to deliver this gift?

The token itself wasn't the problem. But the large swallow character declared it royal. Carrying it would draw dangerous attention.

After a moment's reflection, Qin Wan resolved to return the token first light.

"Miss…" Fuling returned to the inner chamber quickly. "Miss, I instructed Wanxing, and there's no activity in the Warm Chamber. I listened for quite some time."

Fuling's "quite" naturally meant moments, not long minutes.

Hearing this, Qin Wan relaxed slightly. She sat on the bed, lost in thought before sighing. "Wash up. We should sleep."

Fuling acknowledged, immediately assisting Qin Wan. "The Warm Chamber isn't far from here."

Qin Wan, currently applying face cream, paused to give her a doubtful look. "Do you think the Prince Heir would sneak into our chamber at midnight?"

Caught by Qin Wan's words, Fuling appeared somewhat sheepish. Qin Wan shook her head with a wry smile before lying down.

Fuling muttered quietly. "After all... the Prince Heir is a man."

Qin Wan pretended not to hear Fuling's remark as she closed her eyes.

Yan Chi was a man, but not of base nature. He commanded the Shuo Xi army that held off border invaders. How could he commit misconduct for mere feminine charms...

With eyes closed, Qin Wan felt no concern. Not only did she feel secure, but knowing a powerful martial god resided within the courtyard made her oddly calm.

Satisfied, Fuling extinguished the lamp and withdrew.

Silence settled over the room. Though Qin Wan felt peaceful, sleep eluded her. She reached beside the pillow and the token reappeared in her hand. This was the Rui Prince household token. Yan Chi said it was among those used by White Phoenix. With this token, she represented the Rui Prince household. Mixed feelings welled within Qin Wan. The bitter sorrow haunting her dreams these two months softened slightly.

She was returning to the capital. The Marquis's residence first adopted her as an adopted daughter. Yan Chi provided protective tokens. Even Qin Li within the Qin residence treated her with care. Qin Wan's heart warmed. She realized she would not walk her path of vengeance alone. Those kind to her must not be wronged.

Reflecting on this, Qin Wan thought of Yan Chi. Three nights without sleep, yet he returned this distance to deliver the token. Qin Wan tightened her grip on the token, a full sense of joy swelling in her heart.

Qin Wan didn't recall falling asleep. She awoke feeling thoroughly refreshed. The token still rested in her palm. She blinked, feeling rejuvenated. Then glancing around, Qin Wan's gaze sharpened.

Dawn light flooded through the window. Compared to usual morning, she seemed to have overslept!

Moreover, Yan Chi lodged in her Warm Chamber…

Qin Wan shot upright, throwing open the bed curtains. Even then, she faintly heard voices outside. Practically dressed, Qin Wan swept her hair loosely back and hurried out. Upon exiting the inner chamber, Fuling rushed in with furrowed brows. "Miss, the Prince has come!"

Qin Wan's brow furrowed. She instantly understood which Prince Fuling referred to.

"Why is he here?" Qin Wan halted, listening intently. The faint sound of Qin Yan's voice confirmed his presence outside.

Fuling spoke urgently. "I don't know. He arrived suddenly. Wanxing said you hadn't risen. He insisted on entering the courtyard to wait for you. I realized the situation wasn't suitable and came to fetch you."

Qin Wan ignored Qin Yan, whispering. "What about His Highness?"

Fuling's problem lay precisely here. "I haven't checked yet."

Without glancing outside, Qin Wan turned toward the Warm Chamber. As she walked, voices grew louder from the courtyard, suggesting Qin Yan had already entered. Qin Wan's anxiety peaked, fearing Qin Yan might enter the chambers or encounter Yan Chi.

"Thud," Qin Wan pushed open the Warm Chamber door.

The door opened onto an empty room. Qin Wan's heart sank along with the sight. Not only was the Warm Chamber vacant. Pillows and blankets lay neatly folded to the side. The desk stood back in its usual place. Window shutters were securely latched from the inside with no signs of intrusion. Standing in the doorway, Qin Wan paused before regaining her senses.

Yan Chi had left. She didn't know when.

"The Prince has left! I didn't even realize when he departed," Fuling exclaimed in surprise before breathing a sigh of relief. "Now no one will know His Highness came here..."

Absent-mindedly, Qin Wan nodded. Qin Yan's voice had already reached the corridor.

Drawing a deep breath, Qin Wan steadied herself and turned toward the main hall entrance.

Outside, Qin Yan said casually, "I heard Ninth Sister previously lived in another courtyard?"

Wanxing answered woodenly, "When I came here, Miss resided in this courtyard."

Qin Yan glanced at Wanxing, noticing her ordinary appearance and demeanor, concluding she was merely a humble servant. He asked, perplexed, "I heard Ninth Sister's previous residence was quite poor..."

Wanxing crossed her hands in front of her, head lowered respectfully but appearing slightly timid and foolish. Qin Yan naturally wouldn't say much to such a small servant. Unsatisfied with his answers, he fell silent. Bored, he nearly jumped when the door suddenly opened. Qin Yan turned to see the main hall door open, revealing Qin Wan dressed in smoke-blue embroidered lotus pleated gown, standing elegantly within. Their eyes met briefly before Qin Wan bowed. "I greet Third Brother."

"Ninth Sister has awakened!" Qin Yan's smile flooded into his eyes. "Did I interrupt your rest?"

Qin Wan gestured invitingly, "Not at all. I should be awake by now. Please enter, Third Brother."

Qin Yan stepped inside, scanning the room's furnishings. After examining the surroundings he nodded. "This courtyard is quite elegant. The interior arrangement suits your temperament perfectly."

Qin Wan's lips curved slightly. "I found the courtyard this way upon arrival. Not skilled in such matters, I never considered changing anything. Third Brother, please follow me. I have little good tea to offer. Don't find it lacking."

Qin Yan laughed heartily, following Qin Wan into the Warm Chamber. Within the Warm Chamber, pillows and blankets had disappeared. Only an ordinary elegant guest space remained. As soon as Qin Yan sat, Fuling approached with tea cups.

Qin Yan observed Fuling. "This is Fuling, isn't it..."

Fuling set down the tea cups then knelt to kowtow. "I greet the Prince Heir. This servant is indeed Fuling."

Qin Yan nodded, a look of admiration in his eyes. "It's been quite some time. You've remained by your mistress's side. You've cared for her well these many years. Upon returning to the capital, you will be richly rewarded."

Fuling responded respectfully. "This is this servant's duty."

Pleased, Qin Yan lifted his chin. "Good. You've done well. Rise now. I must speak with your mistress."

Fuling stood and waited respectfully to the side. Qin Yan looked at Qin Wan. "I haven't congratulated Ninth Sister on finding adoptive parents."

Qin Wan knew Qin Yan must already know this. She smiled warmly. "Thank you, Third Brother. The Marquis and Madam show me such favor. Since I happened to save the Grand Princess's life, they wanted to adopt me before we part ways."

Qin Yan held his teacup lid, lightly stirring the tea's surface. "We knew Second Uncle enjoyed medical texts, but we never knew Ninth Sister possessed such supreme medical skills as to earn the nickname 'Little Medical Immortal' of Jinzhou in such short time."

Qin Wan shook her head with a wry smile. "Mistaken reports. I primarily treated the Grand Princess."

Qin Yan raised his eyes, his gaze gentle. "Why didn't you demonstrate your skills when we were in the capital?"

Qin Wan lifted her lips. "Back then, I had just lost my parents, still in shock. Thinking myself a daughter of the Qin household, I felt it improper to treat others as a female physician would, so I concealed this ability."

Considering this, Qin Yan found no argument. Noble households had private physicians for minor matters and could summon imperial physicians for serious cases. At Qin Wan's young age then, maintaining propriety would indeed prevent her from casually treating others.

Nodding understandingly, Qin Yan asked, "Then why did Ninth Sister later change her mind?"

Qin Wan narrowed her eyes slightly. "Third Brother has been here several days. You must know I once slipped into the lake?"

Qin Yan had meant to ask this, but was wholly unprepared for Qin Wan to bring it up herself. He nodded. Qin Wan continued. "After that incident, I injured my head and lost some memories. But I will never forget the feeling of near death. Initially I didn't know what happened that time, but I didn't want to experience it again. So I changed."

As she spoke, Qin Wan let out a soft sigh. "Treating the Grand Princess was accidental. But seeing myself save lives brought true fulfillment."

A look of sympathy appeared on Qin Yan's face. "So hardship changed your nature. Frankly, I preferred your previous self. I remember you were much better behaved than Yu'er back in the capital."

Qin Wan lowered her gaze with a smile. "My parents departed early. I practiced medicine to accumulate blessings. Perhaps it is my parents watching over me from heaven. With what they taught me, with the books I read, I truly can heal and save lives."

Unfamiliar with medical matters, Qin Yan felt Qin Wan's sudden emergence as Jinzhou's Little Medical Immortal quite suspicious, though unable to articulate why. Qin Wan's explanations generally held water. Could she truly be a medical prodigy?

Given they would interact frequently upon returning to the capital, Qin Yan didn't press for verification now. Changing the topic, he asked, "Was Brother's doing behind that lake incident?"

A mocking smile touched Qin Wan's face. "It certainly was he."

Qin Yan sighed. "Don't be troubled, Ninth Sister. I've learned of recent events at the Qin residence. Brother was blinded by some woman's charms. But I will not be. Rest assured, Third Brother will treat you well."

Qin Wan's eyes reflected gratitude. "Thank you, Third Brother. I understand."

Qin Yan hummed affirmatively. "Everything packed?"

"Everything ready. I have few belongings to bring."

Hearing this, Qin Yan quickly said, "Bring only what you'll need for the journey. When we reach the capital, Ninth Sister will want for nothing. Third Brother will buy everything you desire."

Qin Wan's lips lifted, dimples revealing gentle obedience. "Third Brother is so kind to me!"

"Naturally!" Qin Yan exuded congenial warmth. He then asked questions about Qin Wan's daily habits in the Qin residence. Qin Wan answered each question. Qin Yan offered praise repeatedly, speaking with Qin Wan for nearly half an hour before departing.

After Qin Yan left, Fuling frowned. "Why does the Third Young Master seem so solicitous..."

Qin Wan reflected, considering the month-long journey ahead. She temporarily dismissed speculation about Qin Yan's motives. After breakfast she headed toward Linfeng Courtyard. Walking, her brow remained furrowed. Fuling noticed and asked, "Is Miss worried about the Young Mistress? We leave tomorrow."

Qin Wan nodded. "Once we go, we may never meet again. The residence will have only her remaining."

Fuling also sighed. "This cannot be helped. It's truly pitiful for the Young Mistress and Little Miss. If the Mistress changes her nature, all will be well. If not, the Young Mistress will face difficult days."

Qin Wan pressed her lips, saying nothing more. Before long they arrived at Linfeng Courtyard. Passing through the courtyard gate, Qin Wan felt today's Linfeng Courtyard seemed unusually quiet. Her brow furrowed. She instinctively sensed something amiss, hurrying faster toward the main hall.

Nearly reaching the inner chamber entrance, she still saw no one. Startled, Qin Wan rushed inside. Stepping through the doorway, Qin Wan paused in surprise. On the bed, Yao Xinlan, previously always asleep when Qin Wan visited, now sat upright. Dressed in new attire with her dark hair gathered up, she reclined against large cushions. Beside her lay a swaddling, and Qin Wan could faintly see Qiqi's face peeking out.

Yao Xinlan was playing with Qiqi, lifting her head at Qin Wan's footsteps.

The sight of Yao Xinlan sitting made Qin Wan's eyes sting. Seeing her play with Qiqi brought tears to Qin Wan's eyes.

Fuling behind her also saw and her eyes filled with excitement.

"Ninth Sister, congratulations."

Yao Xinlan spoke, her voice hoarse but tone light and calm.

Qin Wan slowly approached. "Sister-in-law, you…"

A smile touched Yao Xinlan's lips. She leaned forward and lifted Qiqi. "I've made up my mind."

Qiqi cooed softly. Yao Xinlan lowered her head to kiss her cheek, her face glowing with the profound joy of new motherhood. Qin Wan remained silent, but Yao Xinlan said gently, "After you leave, I will also depart this place."

Qin Wan stepped forward quickly. "Sister-in-law has decided?"

Yao Xinlan looked at Qin Wan and nodded. "Yes, I've decided."

Qin Wan felt some hesitation. "But this will not be easy."

Yao Xinlan's smile was clear, her eyes determined. "My father arrives the day after tomorrow."

Realization dawned in Qin Wan's eyes. Master Yao was coming!

Absently, Yao Xinlan's smile turned gentle. "These past days I've remembered everything you said. Ninth Sister, your heart is so good. One day you will find someone who cherishes you completely..."

Yao Xinlan's gentle smile reflected genuine sincerity. Looking at her, Qin Wan's long-held worries finally eased. This was the true Yao Xinlan. This was the Yao Xinlan she had imagined.

Qin Wan curved her lips. "Thank you for your kind words." She thought of her imminent departure and the elusive nature of Yao Xinlan's previous condition. Both Qin Chen and Caihe were dead. Qin Wan had long wondered why Yao Xinlan believed she was living in a dream. Considering this, Qin Wan asked carefully, "Should Sister-in-law experience any discomfort later, please remember to seek me out."

Contentment showed on Yao Xinlan's face. "Good, I know. Of all physicians, I trust you most."

By choosing to "awaken" the day before Qin Wan's departure, Yao Xinlan's purpose was to ease Qin Wan's mind. Knowing Qin Wan departed soon, she had servants prepare several large crates for Qin Wan. Qin Wan originally saw no servants upon entering because Yao Xinlan had sent them to retrieve valuables from storage.

Yao Xinlan's dowry amounted to a lavish ten-mile procession. Every item given to Qin Wan today was of the highest quality. Qin Wan examined the crates with astonishment. Ultimately unable to resist Yao Xinlan's insistence, she chose the smallest crate. Upon opening it later, she discovered a box filled with pearls of extraordinary size and luster, perfectly round like pigeon eggs.

That evening, Qin Wan viewed everything she would bring. She initially thought one crate would suffice, but Fuling and Wanxing arranged item after item until six large crates stood ready. Qin Wan felt overwhelmed. Only upon hearing Qin Xiang would bring ten large crates and Qin Shuang eight did she finally relax.

Early the next morning, before dawn, Qin Wan and Fuling awoke. The entire Qin residence also stirred early from sleep. Qin Wan finished washing and dressing, watching servants place all crates onto prepared carriages. She then visited Linfeng Courtyard to bid farewell to Yao Xinlan before joining Qin Xiang and the others to depart the residence.

Because Qin Wan's three sisters brought many belongings, their convoy totaled ten carriages. Four carriages upfront accommodated Qin Wan, Qin Xiang, Qin Shuang, and Qin Yan. Behind followed crates packed with their possessions. Under the morning dawn and under twelve guards' protection, this large convoy moved orderly toward the city gate.

Street stalls and teahouses remained closed. Vendors and laborers had just begun work. The Qin family convoy left the city quietly. Beyond the city gate, Madam Lin held Qin Xiang's hand, unwilling to part. Qin Li stood nearby, assuming an elder brotherly manner. After reminding Qin Shuang, he counseled Qin Wan. The family presented a touching farewell scene.

"Xiang'er, remember what Mother said…"

Qin Xiang wiped tears with a handkerchief. "Mother, don't worry. I know. I will return to visit soon."

Nodding repeatedly, Madam Lin looked at Qin Yan. "Please ensure His Highness looks after these three sisters well."

Qin Yan smiled warmly. "Third Aunt Mother, please be at ease. Qin Yan will safely escort these three sisters to the capital. Just await news from us..."

Madam Lin teared up too, clinging to Qin Xiang's hand. Qin Yan hesitated to urge departure. Meanwhile Qin Wan and Qin Shuang seemed somewhat solitary. Qin Li approached Qin Shuang, speaking softly. "Sixth Sister, remember to temper your temperament."

Qin Shuang hummed softly. "Second Brother, take care of Sister-in-law and Qiqi."

Sighing, Qin Li said. "That goes without saying."

Qin Wan understood Yao Xinlan's plans weren't finalized yet. Master Yao hadn't arrived. Speaking now would complicate matters unnecessarily. In her opinion, she also didn't want Yao Xinlan to remain trapped in the Qin residence mire wasting her life.

Qin Wan listened without speaking. Finally, Madam Lin mustered her resolve, wiping tears. "Enough. We shouldn't waste time. All of you should board carriages now..."

Hesitantly, Qin Xiang released Madam Lin's hand. Qin Wan and Qin Shuang curtsied farewell. Just as they prepared to mount carriages, three swift horses approached from the city gate direction. Fuling looked, then cried in delight. "Miss! The Young Princess is here!"

Qin Wan paused mid-step. Simultaneously everyone turned to look toward the city gate.

Three towering steeds galloped toward them. At the forefront rode Yue Ning. Behind her, two men radiated distinguished bearing, clearly Yue Jia and Yue Qing. Seeing them, Qin Wan instinctively took two steps forward.

In no time, Yue Ning and company arrived. Yue Ning dismounted. "Thank goodness you hadn't left yet! I almost missed you!"

Qin Wan curtsied. "Why have you come?"

Yue Jia stepped forward. "Fourth Sister goes so far away. Naturally we must see you off."

Yue Qing also approached. "Fourth Sister, take care on your journey!"

Yue Ning's arrival transformed the scene. Qin Yan stepped forward. "Prince Heir Yue, long time no see."

Noticing him, Yue Jia also stepped forward to greet. Qin Yan exchanged pleasantries with the three. "Unexpected pleasure meeting you thanks to Ninth Sister. Last time we met as children. Ten years apart. Prince Heir shows the manner of a nobleman. Young Princess demonstrates spirit surpassing many men. Even Second Young Master has become independent."

Though the Yue family resided in Jinzhou many years, Yue Ning and siblings grew up in the capital as children. Naturally they knew Qin Yan. Another round of pleasantries followed until Yue Jia looked at Qin Wan. "Our Fourth Sister, your Ninth Sister, please ensure you care for her well on this journey. When we return to the capital someday, we will visit in person."

Qin Yan laughed heartily while bowing. "Rest assured. Not a single hair will be missing from her head! Time grows late. Let us part ways. I will wait for you in the capital."

Nodding, Yue Jia and company offered further advice to Qin Wan. Qin Wan felt a tinge of melancholy. Yet seeing the sun climb higher, she could delay departure no longer. Mounting the carriage, Qin Wan lifted the curtain to look back. Yue Ning and others still stood motionless, while Qin Li and Madam Lin gazed after them, transfixed.

Qin Wan's heart ached suddenly. The journey to the capital involved great distances. Life held unpredictable twists. After parting here, when would she see them again?

October's autumn wind carried chill and desolation. Rising sun banished final dawn glimmers. Under golden sky Qin Wan, like a humble, insignificant ant, carried infinite uncertainties and hopes, bearing boundless sorrow and solitary courage, slowly crawling northward toward the empire's core, Lin'an...