Chapter 7

“You can speak now.”

Fu Ling lowered her head in silence. Song Lan frowned at her. “Didn’t you say you had something to tell my lord, and that’s why you sent Chang Pu away with cold tea and pastries? Why have you turned into a mute now?”

Fu Ling twisted her handkerchief anxiously, her head bowed even lower. “I don’t understand what you’re talking about.”

“You!”

Song Lan was furious and wanted to step forward to argue.

I raised my hand to stop him. “Song Lan, wait outside the pavilion.”

“Yes…” Song Lan replied, drawing out his words, clearly reluctant as he withdrew.

“Wasn’t this what you placed by the basin while I was washing my hands just now?” I took out a handkerchief from my sleeve and unfolded it, revealing a small pink flower inside. “Or did I see it wrong?”

Fu Ling bit her lip, still refusing to admit it. “Even if it was a mistake on my part, what could a tiny flower possibly mean?”

“The oleander’s leaves resemble bamboo, and its flowers look like peach blossoms, hence its name. Bitter and cold, it is highly poisonous; accidental ingestion can be fatal. However, if used properly, it can be medicinal.” I picked up the oleander flower with the handkerchief. “Its flowers and leaves have a calming and cardiotonic effect, useful for treating palpitations and insomnia. I wonder, what could be causing your palpitations and sleepless nights?”

“My lord, please see clearly!” Fu Ling fell to her knees with a thud, kowtowing repeatedly. “My lord, you are perceptive-Huai Xi has suffered a grave injustice. Please, seek justice for her!”

“Stand up and speak.” I gestured for her to rise. “Who is Huai Xi? What injustice has she suffered, and why did she not come herself but sent you instead?”

Fu Ling stood up, sobbing. “Huai Xi is the Singing Girl who died last night.”

My heart skipped a beat. At last, there was a clue.

“Tell me everything in detail.” I motioned for Fu Ling to come over and pretend to pour me tea. “What exactly happened last night? Tell me everything from the beginning.”

Fu Ling picked up the teapot, her eyes full of hatred. “Last night, the steward ordered us to serve in Luo Shen Hall…”