Qi Huaiyu!

The name struck Xin Jiuwei like a thunderclap! She stopped abruptly, held her breath, and pressed herself against the wall next to the moon gate.

A young man's voice, filled with regret and grievance, came from inside: "Grandmother, please calm down! Your grandson... your grandson was confused for a moment! That Qi Huaiyu, holding the tokens from Father's former subordinates, spoke with such sincerity. Your grandson only wanted to help Father share his burdens and find out the truth behind the disappearance of that batch of military funds... Who knew he would use your grandson to tamper with the Ministry of War's records! If it weren't for the Sixth Prince's people investigating so thoroughly... your grandson... your grandson would have caused a great disaster!"

Xin Jiuwei's heart pounded wildly! It was that good-for-nothing grandson of the Marquis of Zhongyong! He had actually been used by Qi Huaiyu? Qi Huaiyu was indeed in the capital! Moreover, his influence had already reached the Ministry of War! What was he planning? To frame the Marquis of Zhongyong? Or... did he have other motives?

"Sixth Prince..." the young man's voice was filled with fear, "Grandmother, the Sixth Prince's people... what if..."

"Now you know fear?" The old lady said with exasperation, "If it weren't for my shamelessness and consideration for your father's loyalty to the country, would the Sixth Prince have let you off so easily? You may escape death, but you can't escape punishment! Pack your bags immediately and get to the Northern Army tomorrow! Start as a lowly soldier under your father's command! You are not allowed to return without military merit!"

"Grandmother! The North is bitterly cold..." the young man wailed.

"Bitter cold is better than losing your head!" the old lady interrupted sharply. "Get out!"

Footsteps sounded, as if the good-for-nothing grandson had run away with a long face.

Xin Jiuwei leaned against the cold wall, her palms drenched in sweat. Qi Huaiyu! He really was making moves! And his target was a noble family like the Marquis of Zhongyong's mansion! Did he want to stir up trouble in the capital? Or... was he targeting her? Using the Marquis of Zhongyong's mansion to attack the old lady who was close to her?

She had to tell Xiao Xun immediately! Qi Huaiyu's whereabouts and conspiracy were key to breaking the current deadlock! This was also her chance to prove her worth to Xiao Xun and gain his stronger support!

Xin Jiuwei lost all interest in admiring the chrysanthemums and hurriedly apologized to the old lady, saying she was feeling unwell. The old lady gave her a deep look, seemingly understanding something, but didn't ask any further questions, only instructing her to take good care of herself.

Back at Jingyuan, Xin Jiuwei immediately wrote down in detail what she had overheard about Qi Huaiyu's attempt to manipulate the Ministry of War's records using the grandson of the Marquis of Zhongyong. She carefully chose her words, avoiding any personal speculation and simply stating the facts. Then, she summoned You Ye.

"Guard You, please present this letter to His Highness immediately. It is of great importance. Qi Huaiyu... has made a move in the capital." Xin Jiuwei handed the sealed letter to You Ye, her tone grave.

Upon receiving the letter, You Ye sensed the urgency and gravity in Xin Jiuwei's eyes and immediately composed himself: "Miss Xin, rest assured, this subordinate will take care of it immediately!"

Watching You Ye's hurried departure, Xin Jiuwei walked to the window. Dusk was falling, and the city lights were just coming on. She gazed at the deep night outside the window, her eyes sharp as knives.

Qi Huaiyu, you've finally shown your true colors! This time, I will never let you escape again! As for Xiao Xun... she clenched her fists. This hunt has only just begun.