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墨書 Inktalez
Nangong Shuang pondered for a moment before calmly saying, "Since it is the artist's interest, I shall not dampen the mood. However, once the painting is completed, I would like to have a look at it."
"Of course! Of course!" Lu Tong replied excitedly, quickly agreeing. "Xiao Quan will surely present the artwork with great respect for you to appreciate."
After Lu Tong took his leave, Xiao Zhongyan approached Nangong Shuang and asked, "You actually agreed to let him paint you?"
Nangong Shuang shook her head slightly. "I can't shake the feeling that something is off. That Lu Ming may appear to be painting, but his gaze is sharp as a knife; he does not have the demeanor of an ordinary artist. My agreement to this matter is precisely because I want to see who he truly is."
"You have a keen eye," Xiao Zhongyan nodded in approval. "That Lu Ming is indeed not simple. I just observed that there is a faint dark red silk ribbon visible at his waist; that is the mark of the Jinyi Blood Guard."
"Jinyi Blood Guard?" Nangong Shuang frowned. "Who are they?"
"The Jinyi Blood Guard is a secret organization within the court, responsible for gathering intelligence and capturing wanted criminals," Xiao Zhongyan explained. "They often disguise themselves as merchants or performers and operate in secrecy. If that Lu Ming is truly one of them, then it’s likely that this merchant convoy was attacked intentionally."
Nangong Shuang's heart sank. "So, it’s possible that Lu Tong could also be..."
"Not necessarily," Xiao Zhongyan pondered. "Lu Tong is straightforward and does not seem like a deceitful person. Perhaps he is unaware and has been used without his knowledge."
"Regardless of the truth, we must remain vigilant," Nangong Shuang said seriously. "Mei Ying Villa is just ahead; we cannot afford to fail now."
As they spoke in low voices, Lu Ming had completed the painting and approached with Lu Tong by his side.
"Nangong Shuang, Xiao Quan's painting is finished," Lu Tong said with a smile. "Please take a look."
Lu Ming held the scroll with both hands and respectfully presented it to Nangong Shuang, his eyes betraying a hint of nervousness and anticipation.
Nangong Shuang accepted the scroll and slowly unfurled it. The figure in the painting was vividly lifelike, capturing not only her likeness but also her spirit; even the Plum Blossom Mark on her left wrist was intricately depicted.
"Master Lu has remarkable skills," Nangong Shuang genuinely praised. "Not only does it resemble me, but it also conveys my essence."
Lu Ming smiled slightly, his voice clear: "You flatter me, Miss. I merely dabble in painting; seeing your ethereal grace compelled me to capture this beauty."
As Nangong Shuang examined the artwork closely, she suddenly noticed what seemed to be writing on the back of the paper. Casually flipping the scroll over, she indeed found several lines of small text: "Descendants of Nan Gong, beware of Shadow Pavilion. The old members of Feng Yu Pavilion have gathered and await you at Mei Ying Villa. Remember, the truth is perilous; do not trust anyone lightly.—Feng Yu"
A jolt ran through Nangong Shuang's heart, but her expression remained unchanged as she turned the scroll back to its front side. "Master Lu's artistry is exquisite; I am truly honored. May I ask if I could keep this painting?"
"That would be only right," Lu Ming smiled gently. "The subject of the painting is you; it rightfully belongs to you."
"Thank you," Nangong Shuang carefully tucked away the scroll, her mind now in turmoil.
So Lu Ming was one of Feng Yu Pavilion! Moreover, the message on the back indicated that old members of Feng Yu Pavilion were waiting at Mei Ying Villa for her arrival. Even more shocking was that he seemed aware of her identity as a descendant of the Nangong Family.
No wonder that mountain bandit had fled in terror upon recognizing her Plum Blossom Mark; it must have been connected to Feng Yu Pavilion's reputation.
"What do you think of the painting?" Xiao Zhongyan asked, looking at her with curiosity in his eyes.
Nangong Shuang smiled softly and said, "The painting is excellent, very vivid."
Lu Tong laughed heartily, "That's great! Xiao Quan rarely puts in such effort. It's getting late; let's set up camp here and rest. We'll continue our journey first thing in the morning."
Everyone busied themselves, setting up tents and starting a fire to cook. Nangong Shuang found a secluded spot to show the writing on the back of the scroll to Xiao Zhongyan.
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