Qiao Er nodded in agreement. "Miss, rest assured, I will do my utmost to assist you in uncovering the truth and clearing the Nangong Family's name!"
The two quietly climbed over the wall into Qian Mansion. Fortunately, the night was deep, and no one in the residence noticed their movements. Upon returning to the small courtyard, Nangong Shuang simply tended to her arm wound before wearily lying down to rest.
Although tonight's adventure was fraught with danger, it was also rewarding. Not only had she rescued Xiao Zhongyan, but she had also learned the location of the secret chamber and the purpose of the Plum Blossom Token. Moreover, she unexpectedly found an old acquaintance from the Nangong Family, Qiao Er.
Nangong Shuang closed her eyes, but Xiao Zhongyan's complex gaze and his unfinished words lingered in her mind. She had a vague feeling that there was something he had not told her—something about the Nangong Family, about the Heavenly Fragrance Life-Extending Technique, and even about his own identity...
Perhaps all these mysteries would find answers at the Nangong Ancestral Home three days later.
Outside the window, the moonlight poured down like water, quietly illuminating the bustling capital city. In a corner of the city, a figure dressed in black was reporting to Zheng Yushi about tonight's failed operation.
"My lord, both Xiao Zhongyan and that woman have escaped," the black-clad man reported while kneeling.
A glint of cold light flashed in Zheng Yushi's eyes. "No matter; they cannot escape my grasp. Send orders to closely monitor Qian Mansion and Xiao Mansion. Report immediately if there are any movements. Three days from now, I will personally go to the Nangong Ancestral Home to meet this girl who calls herself Nangong Shuang!"
The black-clad man complied and left, leaving Zheng Yushi standing alone by the window, his eyes flickering with a chilling light.
"The Heavenly Fragrance Life-Extending Technique... After ten years, I finally have a lead..."
On a spring afternoon in Guo Residence's flower hall, the sound of silk and bamboo filled the air with fragrant aromas. Lord Guo hosted a qin gathering to celebrate his beloved daughter Guan Chunyi's recovery, inviting prominent young ladies from the capital to join in friendship through music.
Nangong Shuang stood behind Qian Wan'er, her gaze wandering across the hall. The guests were numerous; each young lady possessed her own charm—some were dignified and graceful, while others were lively and spirited—all daughters of noble families in the capital. Madam Guo personally welcomed them with cheerful words, embodying the grace of a host.
"Wan'er is here!" Guo Chunyi joyfully approached and took Qian Wan'er's hand. "Sister, you look beautiful today; this lake-blue dress makes you resemble a water lily."
Qian Wan'er blushed and smiled shyly. "I can't compare to you, Guan Chunyi." She turned to Nangong Shuang and whispered, "Nangong Shuang, I'm feeling a bit nervous; all these young ladies are excellent at playing the qin. I'm afraid I'll embarrass myself."
Nangong Shuang softly reassured her, "Miss, just relax and do your best. If you feel anxious, you can pinch your ring finger; it helps calm your nerves."
At that moment, Madam Guo stepped into the center of the hall and announced loudly, "Thank you all for gracing us with your presence today for this qin gathering! I hope everyone will enjoy this opportunity to showcase their skills and share a wonderful time together."
Cheers erupted from the crowd as the atmosphere grew lively.
Madam Guo smiled and said, "Since this is a qin gathering, we must invite each young lady to display her talents. Today we are fortunate to have Master Li Dajia from Tai Chang Si here to guide us; I hope everyone will generously share their skills."
An elegant elder in his fifties stood up and bowed to everyone. Master Li Dajia was a musician from Tai Chang Si in the palace, well-versed in both ancient and modern music theory and able to discern subtle nuances in melodies—his name was known throughout the capital.
"I am unworthy," Master Li Dajia said with a warm smile. "It is truly my great fortune to witness your qin skills today." He then became serious and continued, "However, it is difficult to distinguish between qin pieces; I would like to make a small request."
Madam Guo replied with a smile, "Please go ahead, Master Li."
"Today each young lady must choose a piece to perform and explain its origin and insights; only then can we see true talent," Master Li Dajia stated.
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