Felman naturally understood that this was no place for a conversation, so she could only bring up another topic first.
"Would you like to listen to me play, or would you rather leave first?"
"The former, of course. Music like this is a rare treat." After speaking, Zeng Mu sat on a nearby stool and rubbed his ears, as though trying to sharpen his hearing.
As "Fei'er" elegantly plucked the strings, beautiful music trembled forth. It sounded like ice and snow, yet carried no chill, only the warmth of a major key, like the sunward face of a mountain peak soaked in brilliant sunlight.
Felman played three pieces without stopping: "Sunlit Snow," "Camellia," and "Jade Sea." Each had its own character and distinctive style, drawing the listener deep into the music. After hearing all three, Zeng Mu felt his ears lighten, his mind clear, and his heart settle into tranquility, as though he had undergone a cleansing that would ordinarily take countless days and nights.
Clap, clap. As her fingertips came to rest, Zeng Mu could not help rising to applaud, expressing his respect for that magnificent cleansing.
"That was truly wonderful. I could hardly have imagined that an instrument could be played like that. Both your technique and artistry have reached their peak. This is the first time I've heard a performance of this caliber," Zeng Mu praised.
"Thank you," Felman said with a touch of courtesy. "There aren't many people in the Noble Casino who appreciate this style of music. Your taste pleases me."
"Well, about that..." Zeng Mu gave her a meaningful look, asking where they could discuss the assassination plan in detail. Even now, he still did not know whom he was supposed to assassinate in the Yan State Royal City.
Felman beckoned for him to