Chapter 42
“So it is…”
Argana let out an involuntary sigh of regret, but quickly straightened her posture and asked the next question.
“Anything similar?”
“There were a few with similar effects, Your Highness, but each had its own distinct smell and taste. Some even had a clear golden hue.”
“And did the person in charge of diagnosing the weapon say anything else?”
“He said, ‘There are several types of instant-effect poisons, but all have their own unique smell, color, or texture. Perhaps it is an unknown Godok (poison breeding)?’”
“Godok, huh…”
Godok refers to toxins derived from toads, snakes, or insects. But when used against humans, especially for something to be brought into the imperial palace, it’s far more than ordinary poison.
The process involves placing venomous creatures—snakes, insects, toads—into a glazed ceramic container that prevents moisture absorption. Inside, they kill each other, and the sole survivor feeds on the corpses. Once this last one consumes all the others, it is taken out, and its poison is used. This is called Godok.
“Godok comes in many varieties. You never know which will survive, so their effects vary widely. I know a few commonly used types, but an unknown Godok… hmm, that could be possible. Even so, a three-fold instant-effect poison, as Tu Hua said, won’t be easy.”
Lost in thought, Argana looked back at Tu Hua.
“Any other information?”
“There was, but I hesitate to speak of it. It’s not substantial information, really.”
“It’s fine. Tell me.”
Tu Hua hesitated, expressionless despite his size, then carefully spoke.
“He said that a three-fold instant-effect poison… might be from a Jimsnae.”
“A Jimsnae? You mean Jimdok?”
“Yes, Your Highness.”
Tu Hua bowed his head apologetically, and Argana couldn’t help but let out a wry laugh.
Jimsnae, or Jimdok, has been mentioned in ancient tales, but no one knew if it truly existed. The poison of a Jimdok was said to be so potent that even dipping one feather in liquor or brushing against it could incinerate the internal organs of the drinker, killing them instantly.
Yet, no one who claimed to have seen a Jimdok could actually present one. The very notion had long been considered legend, so the claim had little credibility.
“A Jimsnae… it may be legendary, but even if it exists, obtaining it would be nearly impossible. They say its poison is strongest while alive, and even brushing against a feather can cause full-body rashes and burning in the throat.”
“If it exists, this Tu Hua will risk his life to capture it for you.”
Hearing his genuine resolve, Argana laughed and waved her hand.
“Very well. I can’t afford to lose a talent like you over just one bird.”
“I am only sorry I could not fulfill your command, Your Highness.”
“If you can’t find it this time, there will be another opportunity. Investigate discreetly.”
“Yes, Your Highness.”
A flicker of joy passed over Tu Hua’s face—not the pride of a secure backing or complacent relief, but the exhilaration of having someone to pledge loyalty to, and someone who trusted him. If she told him to jump into a pit of fire, he would have done so without hesitation.
Argana found his reaction pleasing and gestured to Barta to bring the items she had prepared.
“…?”
Tu Hua’s expression went blank as dozens of crates were brought in by servants and attendants, varying from small to large. He watched in confusion as some had to be placed on the floor because there was no space on the tables.
“Your Highness, what is all this…?”
“Since you’ve been promoted, it calls for celebration. But you’ve likely received congratulations from His Majesty as well…”
Following Argana’s gesture, Barta quickly opened a small crate. Tu Hua’s eyes widened in astonishment at what he saw.
On a base lined with the finest silk, gleaming as if oiled, lay a pair of luxurious cloisonné hairpins. The bodies were carved from white jade, and the small angled plates were intricately inlaid with colorful gemstones.
The next box contained more hairpins—pearls, cinnabar, top-grade ebony, coral—items far beyond what Tu Hua, born of common stock, could have dared to touch.
“Y-Your Highness… how is this…?”
“I hear you live with your parents, and your younger sister is of marriageable age, correct? You will be my eyes, ears, and hands from now on, so it is only proper that I give your family a token of respect.”
“…”
“The black ebony and coral hairpins and pearl hairpins are gifts for your mother. The large crate contains padded clothes and silk. The rest are your younger sister’s dowry. If there’s a predetermined place for them, that’s fine; if not, I will ensure a proper place.”
Argana spoke playfully to Tu Hua, who was too stunned and grateful to speak.
“When I send you out to the battlefield, I want you to be a reliable civil servant. I’ve chosen someone refined for the role.”
Tu Hua seemed to regain his senses at her joke. He immediately knelt on the cold floor, prostrating himself.
“The favor Your Highness bestows is so great, I cannot comprehend it. Please, do not withhold your grace.”
“This is for you, so why would I withhold it? Come, come. The floor is cold—stand up.”
When Argana extended her hand, Tu Hua could no longer resist. His rugged face was flushed, and Argana noticed tears forming, making her smile softly.
“You cherish your family greatly, don’t you?”
Tu Hua answered, his voice choked.
“Actually, I had two older brothers, but both perished on the battlefield. My parents were greatly distressed and their health declined. As you said, I have a younger sister of age, two younger brothers, and a widowed sister-in-law. My mother wishes for her to remarry.”
“I see…”
“But… given my limited means, I could never have dared… yet you’ve shown such grace…”
Tu Hua eventually wiped his tears on his rough hand. Argana, feeling pity, handed him a handkerchief.
“Don’t say you’ll wash it and return it.”
“Th-thank you, Your Highness!”
“The items will be sent to your house. I know your efforts were crucial in capturing Taturlai, and I also know you worked hard to sway General Orchai’s stubbornness. It will take time, but I will not forget to reward you—wait for it.”
“Your Highness, I, Tu Hua, am willing to give my life for you!”
“Good.”
Satisfied, Argana instructed the servants to see Tu Hua out and deliver the gifts to his home. Then she called Barta aside and gave secret instructions.
“Check his circumstances thoroughly and report back to me. Also, find him a house not far from the palace—something sturdy but unobtrusive. If a noble’s old residence is available, that would be ideal.”
