It turns out Xiao Linzi had already climbed to the top of the tripod ladder. With a snip of the scissors, he cut down the highest and most vibrant plum branch and placed it into the basket hanging by the ladder, preparing to make another cut.
Jin Xi intended to remind him, but her master was caught up in her own emotional self-indulgence. She called out once but got no response, so she stood aside quietly, accustomed to such behavior.
Concubine Fang Pin couldn't lament any longer, rubbing the handkerchief in her hand as if in a fit of anger. If it weren't for Sister Lian's involvement, she wouldn't have tolerated this foolish eunuch's disregard for orders.
She quickly walked over to the tree where Xiao Linzi was cutting plum blossoms, her tone slightly stiff as she said, "Stop, who told you to cut?"
Xiao Linzi was about to move on to another plum branch when he was startled by a voice from below. He looked down and answered honestly, "The master ordered it."
