"What are you making such a fuss about? If you have something to say, go back and say it." Su Qiao did not want to be treated like a monkey for everyone to gawk at.
There were quite a few people around, including some sons of officials and people from tribes beyond the frontier. They had all been drawn over by Su Yuxin's aggressive demeanor and loud voice.
Su Yuxin put her hands on her hips and snorted, looking completely in the right: "Why should we go back and talk? If there's something to say, say it here and let everyone judge who's right."
Su Qiao's expression darkened as well. Her slightly chilly gaze swept over Su Yuxin, Xiao Ling, who was cowering behind her, and several princes who were slowly walking over.
"So what exactly do you mean?"
"She secretly took my clothes and jewelry and gave them to you. Then she mocked and insulted me, her mistress, right to my face. She even tried to detain me and force me to pretend to be ill so I couldn't attend the banquet. As her mistress, am I supposed to thank her for that?"
"Eldest Miss, how can you slander me like this?" Xiao Ling looked as though she was about to cry as she accused Su Qiao.
After saying that, she knelt beside Su Yuxin with an aggrieved look, wiping her tears and choking out, "Second Miss, I didn't. I really didn't insult Eldest Miss, and I certainly didn't detain her."
"I'm only a lowly servant. How would I dare to be so bold? Even if you gave me the courage, I still wouldn't dare!"
Su Yuxin patted her shoulder sympathetically. "Xiao Ling, don't be afraid. With me here, no one can slander you."
As she spoke, she raised