The Powerful and Favored Coroner Imperial Concubine

Chapter 89 : The Case Concludes, Leg Treatment, a Murderer Who Fears Blood

89: The Case Concludes, Leg Treatment, a Murderer Who Fears Blood

Qin Wan had an extremely long dream.

In the dream, she stood before the capital's city gates. Before her bustled carriages and horses of the nobility and powerful clans. The wide imperial avenue, paved with crimson carpet, stretched directly to the Anyang Gate. Alone, she held a petition in her hand, walking step by step towards the Anyang Gate, moving past the capital's prosperity and wealth, past the administrative offices of the Six Ministries, until finally, she arrived before the Court of Judicial Review.

The Court of Judicial Review managed all the empire's criminal cases. Qin Wan beat the drum and presented her petition. The presiding official seated high in the golden hall of the yamen took one look and declared that Shen Yi's crimes were all wrongful accusations. He immediately memorialized the heavens. Qin Wan stood for only a moment before the Court of Judicial Review, and three imperial riders emerged from the majestic royal palace. At their head, a man held a bright yellow imperial edict. Before they even drew near, the voice proclaiming the imperial decree rang out.

"Upon investigation, the crimes of former Chief Minister of the Court of Judicial Review Shen Yi were indeed wrongful judgments. I now proclaim his innocence to the world, restoring his honor and clearing his name after death…"

Before the proclamation finished, Qin Wan opened her eyes.

This was the outcome she yearned for in her dreams. But this dream was too illusory. Even within the dream, she had known it was just that. A dream, because it had all been too easy. Deep down, she knew she wouldn't be allowed past the Anyang Gate, hadn't visited the Six Ministries' offices, and couldn't even set foot in the Court of Judicial Review's main hall. The presiding minister of the Court of Judicial Review would certainly not look at a mere petition from her.

The Court of Judicial Review was responsible for the crimes of all officials and all cases requiring exile or more severe punishments. The matter had now been over a moon. The Court of Judicial Review had surely changed leadership by now. Without a preliminary trial by the Capital Administrative Office, her petition wouldn't even reach the Court of Judicial Review's main hall.

Qin Wan squeezed her eyes shut tightly. When she opened them again, her gaze was perfectly clear.

The bed curtains hung loosely on all sides. Light from outside streamed in, brighter than usual at this morning hour. Qin Wan knew it was already late. Yet the room was utterly silent. Where was Fuling? Why hadn't she come to call her?

This thought arose, but Qin Wan's body didn't move. She had been up the entire two nights before, without resting at all yesterday, and thus had slept very soundly. Though it was late, Qin Wan wasn't ready to get up yet.

Just as she was lying in bed uncharacteristically lazing about, the outside door creaked open. Someone walked in with light steps.

"Shh, quiet. The Young Miss is still asleep."

It was Fuling's voice. A moment later, another voice said, "The Young Miss is still asleep? I don't think I've ever seen the Young Miss sleep in this late before…"

"The Young Miss has been too tired these past few days. Be gentle."

"The Young Miss has been away from the residence for two nights. Did something happen at the marquis's estate?"

Fuling seemed to pause briefly before saying, "Indeed, the Grand Princess at the marquis's estate was feeling unwell. She trusts only the Young Miss and kept her there. The night before last, the Young Miss watched over the Grand Princess the entire night…"

"Ah, doesn't the marquis's estate have maidservants?"

Fuling replied helplessly, "Of course they have maidservants. It's that the Young Miss is devoted and dutiful to the Grand Princess."

The other speaker was Wanxing. Hearing this, she laughed lightly. "The Grand Princess's status is so noble. It's truly Young Miss's good fortune for her to take a liking to her."

This pleased Fuling immensely. "Exactly. The Grand Princess treats our Young Miss just like her own granddaughter."

Wanxing sighed. "Sister Fuling, perhaps you don't know yet. Sixth Young Miss is still confined for speaking recklessly the other day. The Old Madam gave a strict order; she won't even be allowed to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival…"

Fuling snorted. "That's called getting what she deserves."

Wanxing, hearing this, chimed in with a few compliant words. Qin Wan, disturbed in her bed, had no choice but to rise. Just as she made a slight rustling noise, Fuling in the outer room heard her. "Ah, the Young Miss is awake! You wait here."

"Yes, Sister Fuling, go right in."

Wanxing responded knowingly. Fuling entered the inner chamber.

Upon entering, she indeed saw Qin Wan was awake. Fuling stepped forward to tie back the bed curtains. "Young Miss, you're awake? This servant thought it would be best if Young Miss slept straight through until noon."

Qin Wan shook her head. "That wouldn't be proper at all."

Fuling, retrieving clothes for Qin Wan, shook her head. "Young Miss stayed up the entire two nights before. You didn't get a moment's rest yesterday either. I can see you've already lost some weight. Of course you need more sleep to recover your energy."

Qin Wan's lips curved slightly, lazily stretching her neck. "My body is indeed somewhat weary. But all the urgent matters are done now. I won't be as busy as before…"

"Who says you're done!"

Qin Wan's words had just fallen when another voice carrying laughter sounded. Qin Wan raised an eyebrow to see a figure in a dashing sapphire-blue male outfit walk into the inner chamber. It was Yue Ning. Wanxing followed behind but didn't dare enter the inner chamber, stopping outside. She lifted her head and peeked into the inner chamber, her expression rather guilty.

Qin Wan looked at Yue Ning with a helpless smile and waved to Wanxing. "It's fine, go."

Fuling smiled and saluted. "Greetings, Princess. You've come quite early."

Yue Ning walked directly to a nearby seat, flicked her robe hem aside, and smiled at Qin Wan. "Truly… one all-nighter and you can't handle it? I thought you might be lazy today, which is why I came later. But I never imagined you'd still be lazing in bed." She raised her chin slightly. "Your body really is too delicate…"

Saying this, Yue Ning suddenly regarded Qin Wan thoughtfully. Qin Wan stepped out of bed, putting on her outer robe while shaking her head. "I know what the Princess is thinking. I am not martial arts material. Besides, at my age, it's a bit late to start."

Yue Ning raised an eyebrow, somewhat helpless. "I haven't even said it yet..."

Fuling covered her mouth with a light laugh. "The Princess doesn't know. Young Miss is always like this. Before others even say it out loud, she knows what they're thinking. Sometimes, she leaves people feeling suffocated."

Yue Ning gave a light humph. "Your Young Miss has sharp eyes. But extreme intelligence can be damaging; seeing too clearly isn't necessarily good. You'd best pray your Young Miss becomes a bit slower and duller."

Fuling glanced at Qin Wan. "This servant wouldn't dare! I can only think of ways to nourish the Young Miss's health."

Yue Ning then looked towards the outer chamber. "I smelled breakfast from outside when I came in. There seemed to be a medicinal scent. Are you nourishing your Young Miss?"

"Exactly. This servant noticed the Young Miss didn't look well yesterday, so I had the kitchen stew a pot of snow ginseng soup. Would the Princess like a bowl?" As she spoke, Qin Wan was already dressed. Fuling straightened her clothes and sleeves as she said, "This servant read in a book that ginseng tastes sweet and slightly cool. It mainly nourishes the five viscera, calms the spirit, and solidifies the soul, stopping fright and palpitations, expelling malignant influences. It opens the heart, benefits wisdom, brightens the eyes, and harmonizes the qi. Long-term consumption lightens the body and extends lifespan. Young Miss, have I remembered correctly?"

Qin Wan listened with a gentle smile. Finally, she nodded. "You've memorized the medicinal properties of ginseng very well. But do you remember from the medical texts I gave you, what is the primary formula in the ginseng chapter?"

Fuling's expression immediately became serious. Frowning, she thought for a moment. "This servant remembers… it's the Calming the Will Pill, right?"

Qin Wan was now dressed neatly and walked to the prepared washbasin to freshen up. She casually asked, "Then tell me, for this Calming the Will Pill, besides ginseng, what other ingredients are used?"

Qin Wan asked very casually, but she was testing Fuling. Fuling's heart immediately tightened. "This servant remembers, besides ginseng, there's white poria… and sweetflag… and… honey… and…"

Fuling, holding Qin Wan's towel, her brows furrowed into a deep crease. For a long moment, she couldn't recall the answer. Yue Ning, watching from the side, couldn't help but sigh. "You master and servant pair are truly amusing, actually testing each other like this…"

Qin Wan took the towel and wiped her face. "It's fortunate you didn't forget your own name. There's also one more, polygala root. Grind it into fine powder. Take three qian each dose, with one cup of water. Simmer until reduced to seven parts. Take orally."

Fuling's eyes lit up. "Yes, yes, it's polygala root…"

Then she looked at Yue Ning. "I'm embarrassed to have you witness this, Princess. This servant is slow."

Yue Ning would naturally not laugh; she simply watched from the side with a playful expression, one hand propping her chin as she looked at Fuling. "No wonder the servant girls of other young ladies mostly have names related to music, chess, calligraphy, painting, poetry, literature, flowers, and plants. Either elegant and refined, or sonorous, fresh, and pretty. But you are called Fuling. If someone is illiterate, they wouldn't understand the meaning of your name. It turns out it's because your Young Miss is skilled in medicine. Now that your Young Miss is teaching you medicine, it is also your destined path…"

Fuling immediately smiled upon hearing this. "Speaking of it, my name was indeed given by the Young Miss. That time, the mistress was still alive. The first time she saw me, she was supposed to give me a new name as was customary. So she called the Young Miss over. At that time, the Young Miss was holding a medical book. She pointed at a word in the book, and so I got this name."

Qin Wan, who was doing her hair beside them, was momentarily stunned upon hearing this. She naturally didn't know this detail, but hearing Fuling mention it, it truly seemed like a coincidence. It seemed the previous Ninth Young Miss truly had read some medical books.

Yue Ning chatted with Fuling for a bit. Qin Wan was already dressed and ready, rising to walk out. She looked at Yue Ning. "The Princess didn't come just to joke with us master and servant. I suppose you also didn't come just to beg for a meal."

Yue Ning stood up, following Qin Wan out. Hearing this, Yue Ning raised her chin. "If others wanted me to go, I wouldn't even go. Now, are you actually annoyed with me?"

Qin Wan chuckled. "I just saw the Princess mentioned as soon as she entered the room that I wasn't done being busy. But so far, you haven't said why you came looking for me. I just wanted to remind you."

Yue Ning raised her chin, deliberately feigning calm. "At the very least, you should have breakfast first. No rush."

Hearing Yue Ning say this, Qin Wan sat down for breakfast and, according to her own habit, ate slowly and deliberately, not rushing. She lasted so long that Yue Ning couldn't hold back. "Wei Yanzhi's case now has a clear direction. All that needed to be found has been found. Now Prefect has handed the case over to several Military Comptrollers of the Judicial Court to review the details together, hoping to finalize the documents for reporting before those from the capital arrive in Jinzhou. You know, this case must at least be reported to the Ministry of Justice. How Wei Yanzhi is ultimately sentenced is not up to Prefect. But... today, I didn't come for Wei Yanzhi, but for the Wei family's eldest young master."

Qin Wan raised an eyebrow. "Eldest Young Master's leg isn't doing well?"

Yue Ning sighed. "It's all Second Brother's fault. At this point, the marquis's estate has no further responsibility to be involved. But yesterday, after Second Brother found the fish glue for you, he felt he had helped with the case like you. Subsequently, he got it into his head to bring the Wei family's eldest young master to the estate. The eldest young master has now been proven innocent and was mistakenly injured by the prefect. Prefect was considering whether to personally take care of him... But then Second Brother spoke up..."

Qin Wan couldn't help but chuckle. "So Prefect thanked him profusely and went along with Second Young Master?"

"Exactly." Yue Ning smiled wryly. "You saw Wei Qizhi's condition. Prefect Huo was afraid something would happen to Wei Qizhi in prison, causing another incident, so he sent him to the marquis's estate yesterday afternoon right after you left. The wounds all over his body, delayed in prison for two days, have worsened a bit. He wanted to ask you at the time, but considering you hadn't slept at all for two nights and were exhausted, he didn't come over. But by this morning, everything else was manageable, except Wei Qizhi's leg is incredibly serious. The Doctor Yang invited from Ren Shou Hall said it was highly possible it couldn't be saved. Second Brother got anxious and called me to come get you…"

Yue Ning shrugged as she spoke. "Second Brother saw you practicing medicine and helping the world, and he has also developed a bodhisattva's compassionate heart. Don't blame him."

Qin Wan put down her chopsticks, wiped the corners of her mouth, and then stood up. "Second Young Master already had a kind heart; it wasn't because of me. There is no such thing as blaming. I had thought of Wei Qizhi's injuries that day when I saw him. They probably aren't good."

Yue Ning gasped lightly. "Then what should we do?"

Qin Wan sighed. "We must see for ourselves first. Let's go to the marquis's estate."

Fuling cleared the table and immediately went to fetch Qin Wan's cloak. Soon, Qin Wan was ready to leave.

Once they boarded the carriage outside the manor, Yue Ning let out a soft sigh. "This case is more or less settled now. It's truly a matter for reflection. Tell me, how will Wei Yanzhi be sentenced?"

Qin Wan narrowed her eyes slightly upon hearing this. After a pause, she said, "Naturally, according to the Great Zhou's penal code. Moreover, in this case, Wei Yanzhi, after killing Song Rou, attempted to conceal and frame others, and also harbored malice towards me. Even if he was driven by passion and the law could show leniency, there is no possibility of exoneration. He will likely receive a severe sentence. And... once the Wei and Duke's households learn that the one who had a relationship with Song Rou wasn't Wei Qizhi but Wei Yanzhi, everyone in both households will likely despise him to the core. Although Master Wei previously favored his illegitimate son more, now that things have come to this, he absolutely will not plead for Wei Yanzhi. And Lady Wei, heartbroken over Wei Qizhi being framed by Wei Yanzhi, and the Duke's household, angry at being deceived by Wei Yanzhi, will probably apply some extra pressure. So Wei Yanzhi's final sentence is imaginable."

Yue Ning was silent for a moment. "Thinking of it like that, I can understand why Wei Yanzhi was so pained when he spoke of his birth mother that day. He couldn't rely on his father. And as an illegitimate son, his position there is precarious. Whether it was his legal mother or the Duke's household, none were dependable. Only his birth mother would always stand by his side. But sadly..."

Qin Wan sighed. "One tragedy brewed another. In Wei Yanzhi's heart, after his mother's death, he was alone. Now, he has simply returned to that situation."

"Pitiful, lamentable, but also detestable and despicable." Saying this, Yue Ning suddenly looked at Qin Wan. "Then tell me, did he ever have genuine feelings for Song Rou? When Song Rou named Wei Qizhi, was it instigated by him?"

Qin Wan pondered for a moment, then narrowed her eyes. "Perhaps there were some. Whether it was instigated, I don't know."

Yue Ning was slightly surprised. "What do you mean? When Wei Yanzhi killed Song Rou, he was so cruel. If he had genuine feelings, how could he bring himself to do it?"

Qin Wan shook her head. "His cruelty in killing Song Rou was real, but it's also possible he had genuine feelings for Song Rou before. The two are not mutually exclusive. After all, people change. Wei Yanzhi was clever. He must have known early on that he and Song Rou had no future. But getting close to Song Rou, having her favor him, was beneficial to him. However, with his ability to endure and self-control, he could have flirted with Song Rou to make her fond of him, but he absolutely shouldn't have crossed the line with her. But he still did. Was it that he, like a lecherous rogue, acted recklessly for momentary pleasure?"

She sighed, her tone carrying lingering sorrow. "Of course not. I speculate, perhaps there were several moments where he also wanted a future with Song Rou. Perhaps he also made efforts. But later, he realized the hope was slim. And Song Rou's pregnancy pushed things beyond control. That suddenly made him calm down and ultimately choose his own future."

Yue Ning had never experienced such matters. If left to her, she would only have black-and-white thinking: either love or not. Since Wei Yanzhi killed someone, he was mostly cold-blooded and heartless. But hearing Qin Wan say this, she was momentarily stunned.

A moment later, Yue Ning breathed out. "When you perform autopsies, you are so calm and serious it's almost frightening. When deducing cases, you are sharp and perceptive. I thought you were most certainly someone who hated evil and wouldn't speak a single good word for Wei Yanzhi. But now, you think he wasn't cruel to Song Rou all along. Qin Wan, you've surprised me again."

Qin Wan shook her head. "No one in this world is born evil. Even the most vicious people have soft spots in their hearts. A thief who steals gold and silver might give alms to a beggar. A bandit who murders might return home to be filial to his parents and love his wife and children. It's not that I think too highly of people. It's just that these are common sentiments in the world. It's just that the Princess truly hates evil and hasn't thought about it much."

Yue Ning raised an eyebrow. "Truly... whatever you say, you have your reasons."

Qin Wan smiled upon hearing this. "I was obviously praising the Princess. Couldn't you tell?"

Yue Ning gave a light humph and casually lifted the carriage window curtain. It was already late August. The aura of autumn grew stronger. Even during broad daylight, the gentle breeze in the streets carried a chill. "The people from the capital will be here in another couple of days. I wonder who will come from the Duke's household. I think Prefect will have to finalize the case within two or three days. At that time, Wei Yanzhi will be escorted to the capital. Once Wei Qizhi is sent off and the people from the capital leave, the marquis's estate will truly be at peace. These past weeks have truly been torment."

At this point, Yue Ning turned her head. "My eldest brother is going to the Western Frontiers."

Qin Wan was slightly taken aback. "Going to the Western Frontiers?"

Yue Ning nodded. "Father says the Yue family army might be redeployed to the north after the New Year. At that time, Second Brother will go with the Yue family army. As for eldest brother, it's best for him to gain experience in the Western Frontiers. Prince Rui commands the Western Frontiers. Father is very reassured."

"And His Highness Chi?" Qin Wan asked subconsciously.

Yue Ning shook her head. "His Highness Chi probably won't return to the Western Frontiers army for the time being."

Qin Wan narrowed her eyes. "His Highness Chi has been in the Western Frontiers army for twelve years. Why wouldn't he return?"

Yan Chi had not only served in the Western Frontiers army for twelve years; with his achievements, he was practically the new generation's authority in the Western Frontiers army. But right at this time, he had returned to the capital. If he left, and a few years later new generals rotated into the Western Frontiers army, his prestige within that army would likely greatly diminish...

"This matter... is a bit strange."

Qin Wan already thought it was odd. Hearing Yue Ning say this, she immediately became alert.

Then she heard Yue Ning continue. "Although I don't understand military matters that deeply, after all, the An Yang Marquis's estate has commanded troops for generations, so naturally I know a bit more. This matter... probably has something to do with the military power of the Western Frontiers army."

Yue Ning spoke lightly, but Qin Wan's heart skipped a beat. So, the worst possibility she had imagined might happen?

Suddenly discussing military and government affairs, Yue Ning knew she shouldn't say too much, but since she was talking to Qin Wan, it wasn't a problem. "The Western Frontiers army is probably the most elite garrison force in the Great Zhou today. Yet the military power of this garrison force has always been in the hands of the Prince Rui's household. Right now, it's Prince Rui. In the future, wouldn't it naturally be His Highness Chi? At this time, His Highness Chi left the Western Frontiers army. I'm afraid someone with ulterior motives used some scheme to seize power. Since ancient times, there has been the saying that meritorious service overshadows the ruler. You certainly understand this."

Qin Wan nodded slightly, but what came to her mind were the knife wounds on Yan Chi's back. Wounds that severe must have been a vicious attack by someone who wanted his life. And Qin Wan had long understood: the struggles within the imperial court and royal family always involved bloodshed.

From Wei Yanzhi's case to the struggle for power over the Western Frontiers army, the topic had grown somewhat heavy. By the time the carriage stopped at the marquis's estate gates, Qin Wan and Yue Ning's expressions were both somewhat somber. Upon alighting from the carriage and entering the estate, their expressions cleared somewhat; they were lively and cheerful, heading directly to the Grand Princess's courtyard as usual to pay their respects. Then they went straight to the eastern courtyard with Yue Ning.

"Young Master Wei is still staying in the eastern courtyard, in the small courtyard next to where Wei Yanzhi previously stayed." After a slight pause, Yue Ning added, "Don't laugh when I tell you this. Since you said Wei Yanzhi brought Miss Song's head into the marquis's estate and hid it in his room for many days, Mother has felt uneasy. She says the room Wei Yanzhi stayed in must have a ritual performed by a priest before anyone can live there again."

Qin Wan wasn't the least bit surprised upon hearing this. "This is right for Her Ladyship to do. It's best not to come into contact with the belongings of the dead in general, let alone... For Her Ladyship's peace of mind, performing the ritual several times more is fine."

Qin Wan said this, blinking. Seeing this, Yue Ning laughed. "You clever imp! Didn't you say you don't believe in ghosts and spirits? How come now you know to praise my mother for doing the right thing?"

A crafty gleam appeared in Qin Wan's eyes. "Every time I enter the estate, Her Ladyship always offers me delicious food. Shouldn't I reciprocate appropriately?'

"Qin Wan, you little... You're clearly afraid Mother won't give you delicious treats anymore..."

Yue Ning laughingly scolded, leading Qin Wan into the eastern courtyard. Sure enough, Wei Qizhi's courtyard was right next to where Wei Yanzhi had stayed. Probably their conversation had been too noisy. Before they even reached the main door, Wu Shu rushed out from inside.

Seeing Qin Wan had come, Wu Shu's eyes reddened and he knelt on the ground. "Merciful lady! This lowly one pays respects to the merciful lady! This lowly one thanks the merciful lady for saving my young master! In my next life, I will knot grass and hold rings to repay you!"

Wu Shu's commotion gave Qin Wan a start. Qin Wan looked at Yue Ning quizzically. Yue Ning coughed lightly and whispered, "Second Brother has already told Wei Qizhi everything about how you performed the autopsy and pieced together the bones. Forget about this servant; even Wei Qizhi now regards you as a life-saving benefactor. This is just the first step. When we go inside later, Wei Qizhi will probably heap praise and gratitude on you again."

Qin Wan could only laugh helplessly. She stepped forward. "Please rise first. I've come to see your young master's illness."

Wu Shu wiped away his tears and immediately stood up. "Yes, yes, we have been waiting for you, merciful lady, for so long. Please come in quickly. My young master is also waiting for you."

Qin Wan was helpless. "My surname is Qin, ninth in my clan. I am no merciful lady."

Wu Shu was stunned for a moment, then quickly said, "Yes, Ninth Young Miss... this lowly one knows you are Ninth Young Miss. I heard Prefect address you that way the other day. But in this servant's heart, you are the merciful lady. You and the Princess are both merciful ladies!"

Yue Ning frowned. "You, can't you listen properly? What 'merciful lady, merciful lady!' If you can't speak properly, then don't appear before us!"

While Qin Wan, at her wit's end, still spoke kindly, Yue Ning was different. Seeing Yue Ning faintly annoyed, Wu Shu hurriedly lowered his head. "Yes, yes. Please calm your anger, Princess. This lowly one dares not. This lowly one will definitely change how I address you!"

Yue Ning raised her chin and led Qin Wan inside.

Inside the room, Yue Qing was speaking. "Her medical skills are such that even Doctor Huang of Jinzhou City cannot compare. You might not know, Doctor Huang was previously an imperial physician from the palace. Not only is he in his sixties, but the patients he cured before were at least eight thousand, if not ten thousand. Yet even so, he still lost to her..."

Qin Wan, who had just entered, trembled slightly. Yue Ning, who had stepped through the door first, also raised an eyebrow and couldn't help but call out, "Second Brother."

As soon as she finished speaking, Yue Ning's gaze suddenly fixed. Besides Yue Qing, there was also another person standing in the room. It was actually Huan Ning, whom she hadn't seen for many days. Yue Ning looked at Huan Ning in surprise, noticing his solemn expression, his chin still arrogantly raised. Yue Qing turned around. Seeing Yue Ning looking at Huan Ning, he smiled. "Young Master Huan is here to see Brother Wei. Prefect is worried about Brother Wei's safety, so he sent Young Master Huan to visit."

Yue Ning immediately understood. Prefect Huan had mistakenly injured Wei Qizhi. Probably feeling guilty, he had sent Huan Ning over. Yue Ning nodded slightly at Huan Ning. Huan Ning, stiff-necked, cupped his hands in salute to Yue Ning.

Yue Ning walked straight in. Behind her, Qin Wan appeared. Thus, Qin Wan also saw Huan Ning.

Qin Wan had thought only Yue Qing and Wei Qizhi were there and hadn't expected Huan Ning to be present. Though she was as surprised as Yue Ning, her expression showed no change. Entering, she simply gave a slight curtsey to acknowledge the people in the room.

When Yue Ning entered, Yue Qing showed no reaction. But when Qin Wan appeared, Yue Qing immediately came forward. "Ninth Young Miss, you're here. Sorry to trouble you to make another trip. But right now, only your medical skills can save Brother Wei!"

Qin Wan smiled slightly. "No trouble. Helping the sick and saving people is what I should do."

Qin Wan's answer was simple. Her gaze swept to Wei Qizhi, who was lying on the long couch, fully clothed.

Compared to the Wei Qizhi who had been tied to the wooden frame, his face covered in blood and grime, today's Wei Qizhi was at least properly groomed and dressed in fresh clothes. His dark hair was tied back neatly, his face clearly visible. His features were handsome, his cheekbones sharp. Though he bore some resemblance to Wei Yanzhi, compared to him, his eyes held more of a sparkle. Initially, Wei Yanzhi had seemed perfectly proper, which inevitably made him appear overly cautious and restrained. But Wei Qizhi's eyes were bright and compelling. Though he was examining Qin Wan, it felt open and straightforward, not offensive at all.

Qin Wan once again silently acknowledged the importance of being born into a prominent noble family. As the legitimate son, he was the most doted on since childhood. Wei Qizhi, growing up in such an environment, feared nothing, was open-minded and free-spirited.

"I am Wei Qizhi. Greetings, Ninth Young Miss."

Wei Qizhi's scrutiny lasted only a moment. Then, propping himself up on the edge of the couch, he tried to sit up. Qin Wan stepped forward. "Young Master Wei, there's no need for courtesy. Young Master Wei's leg injury is serious. It's best not to move."

Qin Wan's tone wasn't heavy, but her words carried an inexplicable force that compelled obedience. Wei Qizhi paused, then slowly lay back down.

Yue Qing saw this and smiled. "Brother Wei, there really is no need for such courtesy. Ninth Young Miss is not conventional. Just do as she says; there's no need for those empty formalities..."

Wei Qizhi's face still showed blue and purple bruises. At this, he grinned wryly. "In that case, please forgive my discourtesy."

Yue Qing waved his hand with a smile. "It's not discourtesy at all." Saying this, Yue Qing quickly brought over a stool from the side. "Sit, Ninth Young Miss, please sit quickly..."

Yue Qing's attentiveness was obvious even to Yue Ning, let alone Huo Ning and Wei Qizhi. Wei Qizhi smiled without speaking. Huo Ning, however, narrowed his eyes slightly. When Qin Wan entered, she had only glanced at him, her expression not changing in the slightest, not even as much as Yue Ning's had when she saw him. Huo Ning took a deep breath, feeling that the moment Qin Wan arrived, the room suddenly became so cramped it was hard to breathe.

He wanted to leave, but his feet seemed rooted to the spot. Thinking further, he should have left long ago. Wasn't it because he heard Qin Wan was coming to treat him that he had been standing here all this time?

Huo Ning looked at Qin Wan, a feeling of unreality welling up in his heart.

Had he treated her too badly before? So badly that now Heaven was punishing him?

Now he seemed bewitched, his thoughts always lingering on matters related to her. Was she like this before?

Thinking this, the stifling feeling in Huo Ning's heart lessened slightly.

Huo Ning had just managed to console himself when, at a glance, he saw Yue Qing's focused, bright gaze as he looked at Qin Wan. Huo Ning's heart tightened. The stifled air he had just expelled came rushing back. Not only did it return, but he felt even more uncomfortable than before!

Could there be something between Qin Wan and Yue Qing?!

Qin Wan sat on the stool Yue Qing had moved over. Since she was here to treat Wei Qizhi, she didn't look at Huo Ning's expression. She simply said, "Young Master Wei, please extend your hand..."

Wei Qizhi hurriedly stretched out his hand. Qin Wan saw that the red patches on Wei Qizhi's arm had not yet faded. She placed her fingertips on his wrist pulse and said, "Was no one able to tell Young Master before that the red patches you occasionally developed were due to lacquer poisoning?"

Wei Qizhi evidently already knew this, but he shook his head with a sigh. "It's a pity I didn't meet Ninth Young Miss sooner. Otherwise, this puzzle would have been solved long ago. I had never heard that lacquer could be poisonous."

"Lacquer is only harmful to a minority of people. Ordinary people are not affected."

Qin Wan added this point. Wei Qizhi nodded. "Ninth Young Miss truly is as Second Young Master said. I have learned much."

Qin Wan's expression didn't show the shyness of a young lady. Instead, she spoke straightforwardly and generously. "Second Young Master's words are greatly exaggerated. Young Master Wei need only listen casually... Please switch hands."

Wei Qizhi blinked, then looked at Yue Qing with a hint of sympathy.

After checking the pulse, Qin Wan lifted the thin blanket covering Wei Qizhi's leg. Beneath the blanket, Wei Qizhi's left leg trousers were rolled up to the knee, his calf wrapped in a layer of cotton gauze. As the blanket lifted, a faint medicinal scent drifted out.

"You are still using the Golden Jade Bone-Setting Ointment?"

Wei Qizhi nodded. "That doctor last night said the Golden Jade Bone-Setting Ointment was the best. He didn't prescribe new medicine."

Qin Wan nodded and leaned forward to begin unwrapping the cotton gauze on Wei Qizhi's leg. "Using Golden Jade Bone-Setting Ointment was best before. But now it's somewhat unsuitable. Young Master Wei's leg seems to have suffered a second injury."

At this, a pained look crossed Wei Qizhi's face. "Exactly. The prefectural yamen prison is not a fun place."

His words held a teasing tone. Qin Wan couldn't help but glance at him. Over these few sentences since entering the room, the biggest difference between Wei Qizhi and Wei Yanzhi had already surfaced. Wei Yanzhi was meticulous, his manners impeccable, but he would never joke like Wei Qizhi. It was as if he had an invisible barrier around him. Even if he stood close to others, there was always a layer of separation. Wei Qizhi was different. He joked occasionally in conversation, yet strangely, it didn't feel abrupt. Instead, it made one feel close. Thinking of Wei Qizhi's previously heard poor reputation in the Wei household and his disdain for the Duke's household, Qin Wan, knowing that Wei Qizhi was not a smooth, worldly person, tentatively considered him an honest and free-spirited individual.

"Taking the blame for others isn't fun either."

Qin Wan finished speaking and removed the last layer of gauze.

Wei Qizhi inhaled sharply with a "hiss," his eyebrows knitting together in pain. Yet, he still managed a slight smile at the corner of his lips. "When I agreed, I didn't expect to break a leg. By the time I realized, my leg was already broken. Since it was already broken, and explaining clearly would only earn me a reputation for breaking promises in front of a young lady, making things worse on both sides, I had no choice but to grit my teeth and endure."

"Pfft." Yue Ning couldn't help laughing first. "You broke a leg and went through a near-death experience in prison. Young Master Wei, your mindset is quite good. You can still joke."

Wei Qizhi's brows were knitted, looking like they were about to tie themselves in a knot. Yet, he still spoke as if nothing was wrong. "The Princess flatters me. Honestly, what I've been through these past two months has been truly distressing. If I told others, they'd probably think it was a storyteller's tale meant to amuse the crowd. Since things are already this bitter, I can't exactly pour more bitterness on myself."

Qin Wan's hands paused. She looked up. On this face, which bore a thirty percent resemblance to Wei Yanzhi's, there was clearly an expression of pained grimacing. Yet, the words spoken carried a tone of forced amusement. Such a painful and humiliating experience, listening to him speak, Qin Wan didn't pity him anymore. Instead, she felt his skin and face were both thick enough to endure this ordeal. One could consider it an experience to build character.

The strong become stronger on their own; the weak often use their weakness as an excuse.

The entire journey, Qin Wan had discussed Wei Yanzhi's circumstances with Yue Ning. She had originally felt a bit of sympathy for Wei Yanzhi's past sufferings. But looking at Wei Qizhi, that shred of sympathy in Qin Wan's heart instantly vanished.

If the same experience had happened to Wei Yanzhi, he would certainly have thought, "Song Rou framed me, definitely because I am an illegitimate son." And his broken leg would have been an immense injustice from Heaven. As for the near-death experience in prison, it would surely have been a great humiliation in his growing life. But if Wei Yanzhi's experiences had happened to Wei Qizhi?

Looking at Wei Qizhi, grimacing in pain yet still joking about his own situation, Qin Wan was momentarily unsure. The murder of one's mother was no ordinary matter. She didn't want to deny Wei Yanzhi's pain in this. But if Wei Yanzhi’s experiences had happened to Wei Qizhi, given Wei Qizhi's character, he might not have ended up where he was now.

"The fracture site has reopened. Young Master Wei, bruising has formed around the injury. Just using Golden Jade Bone-Setting Ointment won't reduce the swelling. The stagnant blood inside must be drained. Otherwise, even if the bone heals, Young Master's leg will be deformed."

Qin Wan quickly made her diagnosis. Wei Qizhi seemed momentarily stunned upon hearing this. "Drain blood? How?"

Qin Wan gestured on his leg. "Here. Make an incision to drain the blood..."

Qin Wan clearly saw Wei Qizhi's lip tremble. The next moment, Wei Qizhi's voice weakened. "If... if we don't drain it..."

"Young Master will become a cripple, a limper. You won't be able to ride horses anymore, let alone wield a sword."

Qin Wan's tone was cold and serious. Wei Qizhi's lips trembled again. "Ninth Young Miss will do the cutting? Do you have anesthetic powder?"

Qin Wan nodded. "I will do it. I have it."

Wei Qizhi leaned back against the couch. "Alright. Is Ninth Young Miss's anesthetic powder potent?"

Qin Wan raised an eyebrow, not understanding his meaning. Wei Qizhi looked at her. "Best if it can knock me out for two or three days and nights, or let me sleep through it and wake up with my leg already healed..."

Qin Wan's brows rose even higher. At this point, Yue Ning and Yue Qing couldn't help laughing.

Yue Ning snorted. "I thought Young Master Wei was some kind of righteous man, but I didn't imagine you'd be afraid of pain?"

Wei Qizhi forced a smile. "I'm not afraid of pain, I..."

"He's afraid of blood! Our young master faints at the sight of blood!"

Before Wei Qizhi finished speaking, another voice rang out at the door. Qin Wan and the others turned to see Wu Shu standing at the door with a serious expression. Seeing Qin Wan and the others looking at him, Wu Shu thought they didn't believe him and hurriedly swore by the heavens. "This lowly one's words are absolutely true! I dare not deceive you two merciful... two young ladies!"

Yue Ning's expression was a mix of disbelief and annoyance. Qin Wan also smiled wryly in helplessness. They exchanged a glance, both knowing what the other was thinking.

Why didn't you say earlier that Wei Qizhi faints at the sight of blood! If they had known earlier, his suspicion would have been eliminated long ago!

The murderer's method of killing Song Rou was so brutal. If it were Wei Qizhi, he would have fainted at the first sword strike!

"Don't... don't listen to his nonsense! A real man, a gentleman, how could he be afraid of blood!"

Wei Qizhi forced himself up halfway, glaring fiercely at Wu Shu. Hearing this, Qin Wan turned her head. "Oh? Does Young Master Wei not need anesthetic powder then?"

With a "thump," Wei Qizhi's body fell back onto the couch. He coughed lightly, his voice suddenly weakening. "Ninth Young Miss is benevolent and virtuous. Please choose the strongest anesthetic powder..."