Cang Qian Lang wanted to argue but ultimately just asked, “When did Young Master arrive?”
“Not long ago.” Jun Ye’an stopped in front of a rockery wall, squinting upwards. “I didn’t expect to see the whole place lit up upon my return. I thought everyone was waiting for me. I wondered if you, the grand steward, had become so adept at predicting the future.”
Cang Qian Lang looked slightly embarrassed but said nothing. Jun Ye’an pushed open the door, and a warm, sweet fragrance mixed with the scent of citrus and the stench of blood hit him, making him nauseous. This small retreat was once the favorite spot of the former head of the Jun family, where his beloved concubine, Wang Yun, was renowned for her beautiful hair. Today, someone dared to commit such a heinous act in the Jun family’s esteemed residence. Jun Ye’an’s expression grew solemn. After examining the room, he turned to ask, “Was that young girl a maid of Lady Wang Yun?”
“Yes,” Cang Qian Lang answered. “The previous maid left to care for her sick mother. This girl, named Chu Xia, joined the Jun household half a year ago. She was assigned to Wang Yun Zhai due to her cleverness.”
Standing by the desk, Jun Ye’an’s gaze fell on a red-glazed peach-shaped porcelain basin. The flowers inside had withered, waiting to fall. He reached out, casually touching them, then asked, “Where does that maid live? Let me see.”
Chu Xia’s quarters were in a side room below Wang Yun Zhai. Jun Ye’an retraced his steps, looking thoughtful. “Why are there no maids living outside Wang Yun Zhai?”
Cang Qian Lang shook his head. “I… I don’t know.”
The room was simply furnished with just a bed and a desk. The bedding was half-tossed aside, indicating Chu Xia had left in haste. Jun Ye’an surveyed the room, stopping at the desk where a crude, unglazed clay vase held a few branches of white plum, their scent subtle yet proud. In the dim light, the servants’ lanterns cast blurry outlines. Cang Qian Lang watched Jun Ye’an’s profile, trying to guess his thoughts.
“It’s been a chaotic night,” Jun Ye’an finally spoke after a long silence. “Everyone, go rest. I’ll question the maid when she’s better.”
