Jiang Xun's Case

The last glimmer of the setting sun was swallowed by the distant city walls.

Wei Qing could hardly sit still.

From time to time, she rose and went to the window, lifting the curtain to peer outside.

"Why isn't he back yet..."

She muttered, then turned to glance at Jiang Yuechu, who was sitting upright in a chair with her eyes closed in quiet repose.

The young girl's expression was calm, her breathing long and even.

Seeing how composed she was only made Wei Qing more uneasy.

What private matter could she possibly have with her father?

Could it be...

She had taken a fancy to her brother?

No, no!

Her brother might be fairly handsome, but how could he possibly be worthy of Yuechu?

Just as her thoughts ran wild,

a burst of commotion came from the front courtyard.

Then came the rumble of carriage wheels rolling over bluestone paving, along with the servants' welcoming greetings.

"Master has returned to the residence—"

At that drawn-out call, Wei Qing hurriedly rose.

Wei Residence's main hall.

Wei Wenda wore a crimson official robe, his face exhausted.

He rubbed at his throbbing brow and casually handed his hat to a servant beside him.

Jiang Xun's case was becoming increasingly strange.

First, word had come from His Majesty, demanding that the case be closed as quickly as possible.

Yet not long ago, another order had arrived: the case was not to be hastily concluded, but investigated thoroughly...

Even after decades of drifting through the turbulent sea of officialdom, he still could not fathom His Majesty's intentions.

Especially today...

"Master, dinner is ready. It is duck soup, your favorite."

The steward bowed as he approached, offering a warm towel.

Wei Wenda took the towel and roughly wiped his face.

"I'm not eating."

He