She took a deep breath, pulled out another vial, and swallowed a blood-red pill. This was the Hui Yang Dan, capable of neutralizing Cold Poison and restoring normal body temperature. Moments later, the bluish hue of her skin gradually faded, leaving only her lips still tinged with an abnormal red.
The eyes in the mirror also slowly returned to normal, but under the moonlight, a flicker of eerie blue occasionally flashed across them. Nan Gong Shuang tucked away the medicine box, her thoughts drifting back to tomorrow's meeting. Was Xiao Zhongyan's invitation a trap or an opportunity? What was the relationship between Zheng Yushi and the Xiao Family? And what about that mysterious Shadow Pavilion—what kind of organization was it?
As she pondered this, a scene from her dream suddenly came to mind. That jade pendant... that emblem... She strained to recall, trying to connect it with reality. "The jade pendant at Zheng Yushi's waist!" she suddenly exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with realization. "Could that voice ordering the killings years ago have belonged to him?"
The more Nan Gong Shuang thought about it, the more plausible it seemed. Zheng Yushi had participated in the trial of the Nangong Case back then, and now he appeared in a case involving the old members of the Nangong Family—this was no coincidence. But if he was allied with the Xiao Family, why would he monitor Xiao Zhongyan?
Amidst her tangled thoughts, dawn gradually broke. Nan Gong Shuang knew today would be extraordinary. Whether ahead lay a trap or the truth, she had to face it head-on.
"Then I must be fully prepared," Nan Gong Shuang said to herself as she took a deep breath and began organizing her medicine box for today's adventure. She retrieved several small vials containing different powders and concealed several silver needles on her person, ensuring she could respond to any unexpected situation.
Finally, she solemnly glanced at the Plum Blossom Mark on her left wrist, a glint of determination flashing in her eyes. "Father, Mother, Nangong Shuang will uncover the truth and clear the Nangong Family's name!"
Morning sunlight spilled onto the streets of the capital as Nan Gong Shuang donned simple clothing and a conical hat, blending into the bustling crowd as she walked slowly toward Xiao Mansion. The Plum Blossom Mark on her wrist seemed to radiate warmth, reminding her of the dangers ahead. The Xiao Family—mortal enemies of the Nangong Family and one of the masterminds behind the massacre years ago—now she was voluntarily stepping into their den.
"Only by seeking opportunities amidst danger can one find the truth," Nan Gong Shuang murmured softly, her fingers unconsciously brushing against the silver needles hidden in her sleeve.
After navigating through several bustling streets, an imposing mansion came into view. A golden plaque reading "Xiao Mansion" hung above its crimson doors, flanked by majestic stone lions. Servants bustled in and out before the entrance, showcasing the mansion's extraordinary status.
Nan Gong Shuang did not approach the main entrance directly; instead, she circled around the estate walls in search of the garden mentioned in her letter. She recalled her master saying that Xiao Mansion had a famous Mei Garden located on its western side, featuring rockeries and ponds—a place where the Xiao Family entertained distinguished guests.
Soon enough, she found a somewhat concealed side door. There were no guards at the entrance; only a few gardeners were trimming flowers and plants. After observing for a moment, Nan Gong Shuang seized an opportunity when one gardener turned away and nimbly scaled over a low wall into the garden.
The Mei Garden was much larger than she had imagined; winding paths led through serene surroundings adorned with rockeries—a scene of exquisite elegance. Although it was past plum blossom season, several late-blooming plum trees still stood proudly among their branches, exuding a faint fragrance.
As Nan Gong Shuang followed the path cautiously, she remained vigilant of her surroundings. As a residence of high-ranking officials in court, Xiao Mansion undoubtedly had strict defenses; she had to be extra careful.
Turning around a rockery, she suddenly found herself in an open area where a delicate pavilion nestled between stones revealed itself. Standing inside was a tall figure clad in white.
"Xiao Zhongyan?" Nan Gong Shuang recognized him as the young man from yesterday’s Execution Ground. Her heart tightened involuntarily as her fingers discreetly gripped the silver needles hidden in her sleeve.
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