At Gaojun's request, Shouxue investigates the ghost possessing the jade earring. The owner of the earring was Ban Yingnü. Ten years ago, she was suspected of poisoning the Third Consort and hanged herself. In order to discover the truth about her death, Shouxue heads to the wash house with her lady-in-waiting Jiu-Jiu where Ban Yingnü's personal attendant Su Hongqiao resides. However, Su Hongqiao is unable to speak to them as her tongue has been cut out.

Gaojun uncharacteristically appears lonely. Though Shouxue is concerned, she is unable to ask why. Several days later, Gaojun visits Ye Ming Palace to show her a haunted mask. The ghost haunting the mask apparently responds to a type of foreign lute. The problem is solved when Gaojun is able to provide such a lute. Gaojun tries to leave, but he is stopped by Shouxue.