Chapter 53 – Handkerchief

Xu Gu sat restlessly at the Ministry of Justice. When He Zhiqiu emerged, Xu Gu hurriedly rose to bow.

He Zhiqiu returned the salute, saying, “Brother Xu, we’re of the same year, there’s no need for such formality. As the aggrieved party, it’s my duty to investigate the case thoroughly and clear your birth mother’s name. However, there are many suspicious aspects about this matter, and it involves a meritorious official. We can only question you privately first to clarify the details of the case.”

Xu Gu had an expression of sorrow and guilt on his face as he rose and bowed, saying, “Thank you for your concern, Sir He. My birth mother was a servant girl to my grandmother. After giving birth, the Duke of Jing’s mansion took charge, granting her freedom and sending her away to marry afar after giving her some silver. In recent years, she suddenly found me, saying her husband had died, and the young son she had borne also died prematurely. Because she didn’t have a son, she was driven out by her in-laws and had nowhere else to turn. Her life was difficult, so she came back to seek help from me. Out of pity for her lack of support, I settled her in Sweet Stream Lane and gave her some silver to get by.”

“She usually just did needlework, had no dealings with neighbors, nor any grudges. On the fifth day of the fifth month, I visited her and informed her that I would soon be assigned to a post outside the capital. I gave her some zongzi for the Dragon Boat Festival. There was nothing unusual then.”

“Yesterday, when I went to give her some silver, I discovered she was lying dead on the ground, poisoned. She was holding a handkerchief hidden in her sleeve. As they were of the same style used in the Duke of Jing’s mansion, embroidered with the character ‘Chun’, exactly like my handkerchief. But Xu Chun is the heir of the Duke of Jing’s mansion, and now that I’ve been adopted out, I dare not forget the kindness of my adoptive mother, nor the brotherhood. To determine the culprit based solely on the handkerchief is too hasty. Privately, I also hope it has nothing to do with my brother.”

“But my birth mother did bear me, and she was alone with no support, had no enemies, and wasn’t asking for status. I originally planned to take her with me to my new post; this would have been a way to repay her for giving birth to me. Now that she’s been murdered, I can’t find peace in my heart. If I rashly return to inquire, the Duke’s mansion might just cover it up. Who could have poisoned her? I fear I may never discover the truth in my lifetime. After much thought, I decided not to report it to the elders in the Duke’s mansion, but instead came to the Jingzhao government office to file a complaint. I only seek to uncover the truth and comfort her soul in heaven.”

He Zhiqiu sighed, “This matter mustn’t be publicized. I have two questions. First, the Duchess of the Duke of Jing knew you were born of a servant girl and treated the sons and daughters equally, ensuring they were well-clothed, well-fed, and educated. Whether your birth mother returned to the mansion or not, it wouldn’t have affected her. After all, you’ve already been adopted out, and your nominal mother isn’t her anymore. Even if you returned, it would just mean one more concubine. I’ve heard that the Duke of Jing has many servant girls, and the Duchess of Jing has never been jealous, her reputation is excellent. She is a first-class Dame, with a rich dowry and a high status, she would have no reason to quarrel with a servant girl who had long left the mansion. If you had truthfully reported your birth mother’s return to her, she would likely have welcomed her into the mansion as your aunt, giving her a proper status and place to live out her days. Why did you settle her outside the mansion instead?”

“Second, Prince Xu is known for his generosity and righteousness, he’s very clever and understands things well. He’s someone who spends money like water and doesn’t care about wealth. You’re now a Jinshi, about to receive an official appointment. Formally, you’re his elder brother, but in reality, you’re flesh and blood brothers. You’ll only help each other in the future. Even if he knew your birth mother lived outside, why would he make things difficult for her? Seeking revenge for his mother makes no sense, the Duke of Jing has many servant girls, why single out one who was released? Killing a servant girl for no reason and offending an official brother, why would he do that? Even if your birth mother offended him with her words, he would have servants around to handle things and cover it up. Why leave behind a personal handkerchief and not destroy the evidence? He has a bright future ahead, why would he do something so foolish?”

“With these two questions, I wonder if Brother Enli can enlighten me. This will give me a direction for the investigation. Otherwise, the motive for murder doesn’t make sense. How can I arbitrarily question a noble prince?”

“He lives alone, doesn’t interact with neighbors, and you only see him every few days. Whoever wanted to eliminate her could easily take her away in a sedan chair or sell her afar or dispose of her however they wished, leaving no trace. You would be none the wiser, perhaps even thinking she left on her own. From what I see, this poisoning and leaving the body seems like a warning and intimidation. Leaving such obvious clues looks more like framing and provocation, sowing discord among family members.”

“Brother Enli should carefully consider this. The misfortune that befell your mother probably came from you. Think again, do you have any enemies, or did you block someone’s path?”

Hearing He Zhiqiu’s straightforward analysis, Xu Gu felt a burning pain in his heart. He was indeed speculating whether Xu Chun knew his background, hated the first wife’s house for bullying the second wife’s house too much, and thus killed his birth mother as a warning and to silence him, to extinguish any thoughts he had of inheriting the title. He also suspected that Lady Bai knew the truth and was stirring up trouble, but revealing these suspicions would involve his biggest secret regarding his origins.

At this moment, these were only speculations, the truth was yet unclear. How could he openly confess everything to He Zhiqiu? He could only look ashamed and say, “Sir He, not returning to the Duke of Jing’s mansion was my birth mother’s wish. At the time, I was worried that my grandmother and my nominal mother would blame me. The rules of the Duke’s mansion are strict. Since she didn’t want to return, I didn’t force her. I was still young then, after all, afraid of trouble. But regarding grievances, there are no leads. As a concubine-born son, I’ve always kept a low profile, only reading books. I’ve never dared to cause trouble, nor have I made enemies.”

Beforehand, He Zhiqiu had discreetly inquired about Xu Gu from his teachers and friends. Indeed, Xu Gu had always been known for his hard work. Although somewhat cold and proud, his humble position and talent made him somewhat haughty. He hadn’t heard of Xu Gu having any enemies, and since he hadn’t received an official appointment yet, he couldn’t have blocked anyone’s path or had political rivals.

If it was for the title, the Duke of Jing still had legitimate and illegitimate sons, and they were still young and strong. No one knew how many more sons they could have. A distant nephew, even if granted an official post, wouldn’t hinder the title.

Seeing that Xu Gu couldn’t provide any more information, He Zhiqiu could only offer some comforting words and promised to investigate the case diligently. He ordered Xu Gu to return home temporarily and observe if anyone in the Duke of Jing’s mansion treated him differently, but not to alarm the snake before striking.

After sending Xu Gu away, He Zhiqiu thought for a while, took a box, and placed the two pieces of evidence—the handkerchief and the vial of poison—inside, sealing it. Then he meticulously wrote a memorial, sealed it, and summoned a swift-footed officer, giving him instructions to deliver it to Fang Zixing.

==

Fang Zixing received the memorial and box, questioned the officer once more, then mounted his horse and personally rode out of the city to White Stream Villa.

Entering the room, he saw Wufu and Liushun standing at the door, looking cautious. Seeing him, they only shook their heads silently.

Fang Zixing realized the Emperor was in a bad mood and didn’t want to see anyone. Unless it was urgent, it was best not to bother His Majesty. Thinking for a moment, he cautiously spoke softly outside the curtain, “Go in and inform His Highness, tell him it’s a secret report from the Prince.”

Wufu whispered, “Wait a moment.” After entering and exiting shortly thereafter, he said, “Please come in, Lord Fang.”

Fang Zixing entered and, seeing Xie Yi’s face, knew it wasn’t good. He paid his respects, and Xie Yi said coldly, “Speak.”

Fang Zixing reported in a low voice, “The case has been transferred to the Ministry of Justice. Sir He Zhiqiu initially questioned Xu Gu, but currently has some doubts. Therefore, he wrote this memorial and entrusted me to present it to Your Majesty.”

“The poison has been examined by the coroner, it’s arsenic. This poison is expensive and lethal, often used by wealthy families. The poison bottle is a glass bottle, also commonly used by high-ranking nobles. It’s usually self-prepared, and can’t be traced in external pharmacies.”

“The neighbors have been questioned. Due to Xu Gu’s caution, the rented place was secluded, with few people nearby, mostly shops and warehouses. Therefore, the sounds from inside the room couldn’t be heard by the neighbors.”

“At the moment, there are indeed few clues. Sir He believes that since Xu Gu insists this handkerchief belongs to Prince Xu, it would be unwise to alarm the Prince. Could we ask the attendants responsible for the Prince’s clothing to identify when this handkerchief was lost, or perhaps find a line of defense for the Prince?”

Xie Yi took the memorial, opened it, and read through it quickly. He chuckled coldly, “He has some skill, to see the crux at a glance.” He then instructed Liushun, “Go fetch Qiuhu from the Prince’s side, without alarming the Prince.”

Liushun hurriedly agreed and ran out. Soon, Qiuhu entered. Seeing Xie Yi sitting above, with Lord Fang and the attendants below remaining silent, he, skilled in reading between the lines, hurriedly came forward, bowed, and smiled, “Greetings, Your Highness, is there anything you need me to do? Just give the order.”

Xie Yi ordered Wufu to bring over the tray to show him the handkerchief, “I’ve seen the handkerchiefs Prince Xu carried before, they weren’t like this. Take a look, is this your Prince’s handkerchief? It ended up with me.”

Qiuhu picked it up, looked at it, and laughed, “It’s the Prince’s handkerchief, but not one he usually carries. This was given by the first wife of our mansion to the younger generation, not just the Prince, but all the sons and daughters of the second wife’s house. Normally, the Prince doesn’t carry it when he goes out, only uses it within the mansion, after all, it was bestowed by an elder.”

Xie Yi asked, “How can you tell it’s from the first wife’s side? It looks brand new.”

Qiuhu explained, “Our mistress doesn’t know how to sew, so she never makes these herself. The clothes and accessories worn by the young masters and misses of the second wife’s house are usually chosen from items sent by stores. Their clothes are often measured and made by seamstresses. They’re made according to the preferences of the young masters and misses, so there’s never an identical piece.”

“The first wife, Lady Bai, comes from an official family, with strict rules. She frequently sends handkerchiefs, shoes, socks, etc., to the young masters and misses of the second wife’s house. The styles are all the same, with a character embroidered inconspicuously inside for identification. When they’re sent, it’s said that Lady Bai made them herself, but we all know that they’re mostly made by the maids in the first wife’s chambers. They dislike using silk or satin, considering it extravagant, preferring Songjiang cloth.”

Xie Yi nodded, “I see. You’re always by the Prince’s side for his attire and clothing. Looking at you, you seem quite meticulous, how did you lose a handkerchief with me?”

Qiuhu was puzzled, “Your Highness, I’m also wondering. Whenever the Prince sees you, he personally selects his clothes, shoes, and hats. Not to mention handkerchiefs, even sachets and belts are carefully chosen. Why would he bring this plain handkerchief? This plain handkerchief is usually kept by the maidservants in the mansion. During the New Year and festivals, when the younger generation pays respects to the elders, he brings it. This new-looking handkerchief seems like it hasn’t been washed after being starched. It should be the first time it’s been used, unlike the Prince’s style.”

Xie Yi asked, “Do you check all the Prince’s accessories and clothes when he enters and leaves?”

Qiuhu replied, “Outside, it’s me, and inside, it’s Qingjin and Yinzhu, the two senior maids, who are responsible. They’re always meticulous. The new clothes the Prince receives in the mansion are always washed before use. Items obtained from outside are never used, they’re sealed and given as rewards to others.”

Xie Yi asked, “Aside from these two maids, does your Prince have other maids?”

Qiuhu answered, “There are two maids, Chimei and Zaolan, given by Grandma this year, but the Prince doesn’t like them. He only lets them do things like fragrance blending and tea preparation, not allowing them to serve close by. Moreover, since the Prince entered the Imperial Academy this year, he hasn’t stayed in the mansion for many days.”

He was speaking in defense of his Prince, trying to explain. Xie Yi, seeing Qiuhu like this, softened his expression slightly, “You’re not bad. Do something for me. Without telling your Prince, the city gates haven’t closed yet. I’ll send someone to escort you back to the city to the Duke of Jing’s mansion. Go back without alarming anyone else. Quietly ask Qingjin and Yinzhu to check the number of handkerchiefs the Prince has. Since they were bestowed by elders, there should be a fixed number. See if any are missing.”

Qiuhu understood, “Your Highness suspects someone forged this handkerchief?”

Xie Yi nodded slightly, “Regardless, it’s for the good of your Prince. Go and handle it, and I’ll reward you.”

Fang Zixing escorted Qiuhu out and sent him off. A tall guard on a sturdy horse arrived, taking Qiuhu away on horseback.

In less than an hour, Qiuhu returned to report, “Your Highness, I’ve asked Sister Qingjin. The number of handkerchiefs and all the Prince’s clothes and socks are accounted for, there’s no shortage. This handkerchief isn’t the Prince’s, but strangely, the identifying mark is exactly the same as before.”

He presented a handkerchief to Xie Yi, who compared the two. Indeed, the used one had been washed and dried, though ironed smooth without a wrinkle, it was clearly thinner and softer than the new, starched handkerchief left at the scene. But the embroidery was identical.

Xie Yi understood in his heart, instructing Liushun to reward Qiuhu, “Don’t mention this again. I’ll take care of matters related to the Prince. If the Prince asks, just have him ask me.”

Qiuhu didn’t accept the reward, hesitating for a moment, “Your Highness, the Prince treats you sincerely, without ulterior motives. The mansion doesn’t have any concubines either. Please don’t doubt him. I won’t tell the Prince, only because I’m afraid the Prince will be hurt knowing you suspect and investigate him. It’s not because of this order from Your Highness, I dare not accept this reward.”

Xie Yi was speechless. Although he knew that those serving closely knew everything about their relationship, this little servant was wholeheartedly defending his master, assuming Xie Yi was jealous and doubting their Prince. They didn’t know that their Prince was very adaptable, able to let go easily, ready to forget each other anytime.

Hurt? Clearly, he was a fickle one.

Xie Yi was amused and helpless, waving his hand, “I understand, don’t worry. This is a reward for your loyalty, go down.”

Qiuhu looked at Xie Yi uncertainly several times before retreating.

Fang Zixing dared not look at the Emperor’s face, wishing to finish today’s case as soon as possible. He reported, “Your Majesty, shall we investigate Lady Bai of the first wife’s house?”

Xie Yi shook his head, pondering for a while, then remembered, “When you go back, have He Zhiqiu check the time of death of the previous Duke of Jing, Xu Anfeng, and compare it with Xu Gu’s birthday. Carefully investigate midwives, birth certificates, and other items.”

Fang Zixing was stunned, “Does Your Majesty suspect that Xu Gu is Xu Anfeng’s posthumous child? Then why wasn’t he directly entitled to inherit?”

Xie Yi explained, “He’s a servant-born son, and was released. His paternity was questionable, it was impossible for him to inherit. After all, the Sheng family wasn’t easy to bully, providing millions of silver. It could only be handled through a series of maneuvers, suppressing it under the name of his confused younger brother, then carefully cultivating him, advancing through the imperial examinations, and adopting him back into the first wife’s house as an heir. With this series of moves, the flaws in his background became minimal. Xu Anlin and Xu Chun’s reputations have always been poor. If they continued their reckless ways, it was possible that one day they would commit a crime worthy of losing the title. Then the title would return to this branch of the first wife’s house?”

Fang Zixing was astonished, “For such a long time, could someone really be so meticulous and persistent? Was it the first wife’s house? Still, this doesn’t quite make sense. If it’s for the title, why kill someone? Killing an insignificant concubine would only offend the main target, Xu Gu? Xu Gu wouldn’t be crazy enough to sacrifice his birth mother’s life to frame someone, would he? This framing is too crude. He passed the imperial examinations, how could he be so foolish?”

“There are indeed unresolved issues. If it was a warning, why frame someone? Perhaps at first, they didn’t think Xu Gu would report it to the authorities. In the past, in noble families, it was highly possible that a servant would be sacrificed to cover up internal affairs. This matter is suspicious. It’s not necessarily the first wife’s house, have He Zhiqiu investigate.”

Fang Zixing was stunned, “…the Empress Dowager? But Xu Anlin is also her son, and Xu Chun is her direct grandson!”

Xie Yi said slowly, “Perhaps in this world, mothers with a bias have an especially strong obsession with the inheritance of family assets and the continuation of bloodlines.”

The one they loved the most was dead, so they wanted to leave the best things, like family assets, titles, and the world, to their children.