Qian Laoye personally welcomed them, and after exchanging a few pleasantries, they headed towards the study. Nangong Shuang stood to the side with her head bowed, not daring to look up directly. However, she caught a glimpse of the man in the Brocade Robe, who had an inconspicuous emblem embroidered on his chest that seemed to resemble the character "Xiao."
"This is Nangong Shuang?" the man in the Brocade Robe suddenly asked as he approached.
Qian Laoye smiled and introduced her, "Indeed. This girl is clever and quick-witted, with an excellent memory. She is my daughter's new maid."
The man in the Brocade Robe gave Nangong Shuang a meaningful glance. "Hmm, she certainly has an extraordinary demeanor."
Nangong Shuang respectfully bowed but did not speak further. The three entered the study, where Qian De stood at the door and gestured for Nangong Shuang to prepare the tea set.
Inside the study, following Qian De's instructions, Nangong Shuang began to brew tea on a small table beside her. Her movements were skilled and unhurried, each gesture adhering to proper etiquette. At the same time, she perked up her ears to listen carefully to the conversation between the two gentlemen.
"Lord Xiao, the goods have been arranged and can set off in three days," Qian Laoye said in a low voice. "However, the journey is long, and there may be obstacles."
"That's fine," Lord Xiao—now confirmed as his name—responded steadily. "I have dispatched trusted aides along the way to ensure everything goes smoothly."
"You have considered everything well," Qian Laoye complimented before changing the subject. "How is your son doing? My daughter Ruyi always speaks highly of him."
Lord Xiao smiled lightly. "My son has made considerable progress during his travels. However, regarding this marriage..."
Nangong Shuang's heart tightened; were they going to discuss Xiao Zhongyan and Qian Ruyi's marriage?
"Is the tea ready?" Qian Laoye asked Nangong Shuang.
She quickly brought out the tea tray and presented the first cup with both hands. "Please enjoy the tea, Lord Xiao."
Lord Xiao accepted the cup and savored it carefully. "Good tea; it’s brewed just right."
Nangong Shuang poured tea for Qian Laoye next and then stepped aside to wait. The two gentlemen continued their conversation, but they shifted their topic to matters concerning the court and no longer mentioned Xiao Zhongyan or Qian Ruyi.
About half an hour later, Qian De came in to collect the teaware and signaled for Nangong Shuang to leave. Just as she was about to take her leave, Lord Xiao suddenly spoke up: "This girl has an extraordinary presence; she doesn't seem like an ordinary maid. Where did you find her, Brother Qian?"
Qian Laoye chuckled lightly. "Xiao brother has a good eye. This girl is indeed special; I heard she studied at a medical clinic and is well-versed in poetry and literature. Ruyi likes her very much. If you are interested, you might consider taking her back home with you?"
Lord Xiao looked intently at Nangong Shuang. "No need; your household surely has its own plans for employing people."
Nangong Shuang felt a chill run down her spine; she sensed that Lord Xiao's words carried deeper meaning, as if he saw through something. She respectfully bowed and exited the study, letting out a long breath.
Just as she was about to return to Second Miss's courtyard, Qian De came out of the study and called her over: "Nangong Shuang, come here for a moment."
Feeling a sense of caution but compelled to approach, she asked, "What does Chief Steward need?"
Qian De handed her a small package. "This is a reward from Lord Xiao for your excellent tea skills."
Nangong Shuang was taken aback by this unexpected honor. "What merit do I have to deserve such recognition from him?"
"Lord Xiao has always appreciated talent," Qian De said meaningfully. "However, while you may receive recognition, do not let it go to your head. The rules in the manor are strict, so be careful not to cross any boundaries."
Nangong Shuang understood that he was warning her not to meddle in affairs that did not concern her, and quickly replied, "Nangong Shuang understands and will certainly keep to her duties."
Only then did Qian De nod in satisfaction, but suddenly as if recalling something, he asked, "I heard you have some medical knowledge?"
"Just a little," Nangong Shuang answered modestly.
"Well, I will arrange for you to meet the old physician in the manor later so you can exchange ideas," Qian De said thoughtfully. "You may go now."
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