Nangong Shuang did not answer directly but asked, “It seems you have a close relationship with the Qian Family?”
Xiao Zhongyan nodded. “Qian Laoye is an old friend of my father, and our families have always had close ties. However, I did not come here to discuss that.” His expression turned serious. “After the incident at Mei Ying Villa, the Shadow Pavilion has intensified their actions. They are searching everywhere for the whereabouts of the Heavenly Fragrance Life-Extending Technique and the will. Although the people from Feng Yu Pavilion saved you, they have their own motives. You are in a dangerous situation and must be extra cautious.”
Nangong Shuang asked warily, “Why are you telling me this?”
“Because I do not want you to fall into the hands of either side,” Xiao Zhongyan said sincerely. “Neither the Shadow Pavilion nor Feng Yu Pavilion truly has your best interests at heart. What they want is the secrets and value you possess.”
“Then what is your motive?” Nangong Shuang looked directly into his eyes.
Xiao Zhongyan was silent for a moment before softly saying, “I just want to make amends for my family's past mistakes. When Nan Gong was exterminated, the Xiao Family cannot be absolved of blame. Now that I have the chance to help the descendants of Nan Gong, I cannot stand by and do nothing.”
Nangong Shuang felt a mix of emotions. She was unsure whether to trust Xiao Zhongyan, but her intuition told her that he was speaking sincerely at this moment.
“Thank you for informing me,” she finally said. “Nangong Shuang will be more careful. However, you must also take care. Since the Shadow Pavilion is looking for the Heavenly Fragrance Life-Extending Technique, those who have come into contact with you will also become their targets.”
Xiao Zhongyan nodded. “I understand. By the way, there’s one more thing to tell you. Wu Shilang recognized your technique today and privately mentioned to Qian Laoye that your medicinal dishes resemble those passed down from the Nangong Family. Qian Laoye fell silent upon hearing this, but I suspect he is already suspicious. You need to be wary of anyone from the Qian Family, especially Qian De.”
Nangong Shuang was taken aback. “How do you know this?”
“Wu Shilang is a close friend of my father’s and visited Xiao Mansion after the banquet, inadvertently mentioning it,” Xiao Zhongyan explained. “I felt it was significant and needed to inform you promptly.”
Nangong Shuang nodded gratefully. “Thank you very much.”
The two exchanged more information and agreed to meet secretly again in three days. As they parted ways, Xiao Zhongyan handed Nangong Shuang a small porcelain vial. “This is Qing Yu Dan; it can temporarily alter your physical characteristics and is more effective than the medicine you are currently using. If there’s an emergency, take this pill to save your life.”
Nangong Shuang accepted the vial, warmth flooding her heart. Regardless of Xiao Zhongyan's true intentions, at least in this moment, he was indeed helping her.
Back in her room, Nangong Shuang tossed and turned, unable to sleep. Today’s events made her realize that her situation was more perilous than she had imagined. Not only was Qian De closing in on her, but even high-ranking officials like Wu Shilang were beginning to grow suspicious. She needed to act quickly to uncover the truth behind her family's extermination and locate the Heavenly Fragrance Life-Extending Technique.
Outside, the moonlight poured like water onto her bed. Nangong Shuang silently vowed that no matter how difficult the road ahead might be, she would press on bravely to seek justice for the Nangong Family!
The next morning, as soon as Nangong Shuang got up, she heard a commotion in the mansion. Qian Ruyi rushed over excitedly and said, “Nangong Shuang! Good news! Father greatly appreciates your culinary skills and has decided to let you participate in next month’s family banquet preparations! Moreover, Uncle Wu sent someone yesterday with a gift specifically for you!”
Nangong Shuang's heart skipped a beat. “For me?”
Qian Ruyi nodded and took out an exquisite brocade box from her bosom. “Open it and see! It must be something wonderful!”
Nangong Shuang carefully opened the brocade box and found a uniquely shaped jade pendant inside, intricately carved with several herbs—its craftsmanship was exquisite. What surprised her even more was that a small character "Nan" was engraved on the back of the pendant!
“This is... from Lord Wu?” Nangong Shuang's voice trembled slightly.
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