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墨書 Inktalez
Nangong Shuang pondered for a moment before calmly saying, "Since it pleases the painter, I shall not dampen his spirits. However, once the painting is completed, I would like to have a look at it."
"Of course, of course!" Lu Tong exclaimed with delight, quickly agreeing. "Xiao Quan will certainly 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 amiss. That Lu Ming appears to be painting, yet his gaze is sharp as a blade, unlike that of an ordinary artist. My agreement to this matter is precisely to uncover who he truly is."
"You have a keen eye," Xiao Zhongyan nodded in approval. "Lu Ming is indeed not simple. I observed earlier that a dark red silk ribbon was faintly 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 entertainers while operating in the shadows. If Lu Ming is truly one of them, then it’s likely that this merchant caravan's ambush was no coincidence."
Nangong Shuang's heart sank. "If that's the case, then Lu Tong might also be..."
"Not necessarily," Xiao Zhongyan mused. "Lu Tong is straightforward and does not seem like a cunning 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 hushed tones, 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 demeanor perfectly; even the Plum Blossom Mark on her left wrist was meticulously depicted.
"Master Lu has remarkable skills," Nangong Shuang genuinely praised. "Not only does it resemble me, but it also conveys my spirit."
Lu Ming smiled slightly and replied in a clear voice, "You flatter me, Miss. I merely dabble in painting; seeing your ethereal grace compelled me to capture this beauty."
As Nangong Shuang examined the painting closely, she suddenly noticed what seemed to be writing faintly visible 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 remnants 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 flipped 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 figure in the painting is you; it rightfully belongs to you."
"Thank you," Nangong Shuang said as she carefully tucked away the scroll, her mind swirling with tumultuous thoughts.
So Lu Ming is one of Feng Yu Pavilion's people! Moreover, the message on the back indicates that remnants of Feng Yu Pavilion are waiting at Mei Ying Villa. Even more shocking was that he seemed to know her identity as a descendant of the Nangong Family.
No wonder that Mountain Bandit leader fled in terror after recognizing her Plum Blossom Mark; it must be related to Feng Yu Pavilion's reputation.
"What do you think of the painting?" Xiao Zhongyan asked, his eyes filled with curiosity.
Nangong Shuang smiled softly and said, "The painting is excellent, truly lifelike."
Lu Tong laughed heartily, "That's great! Xiao Quan rarely puts in such effort. It's getting late; let's set up camp here for the night and continue our journey early tomorrow."
Everyone busied themselves, setting up tents and starting a fire to cook. Nangong Shuang found a secluded spot and showed the writing on the back of the scroll to Xiao Zhongyan.
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