Seeing her sincerity, Qian Wan'er took the pouch and began to play with it lovingly. "The embroidery is exquisite, so lifelike!"
Nangong Shuang also picked up a piece of embroidery to examine it closely, nodding in approval. The craftsmanship was superb, with fine stitches and bold yet harmonious colors; it was indeed not something an ordinary embroiderer could create.
"Miss Qiao Er's embroidery skills are extraordinary," Nangong Shuang praised sincerely. "Such talent is rare even in the capital."
Qiao Er smiled shyly. "Sister Shuang is too kind; it's just a family skill."
Nangong Shuang noticed the subtle shift in how Qiao Er addressed her, further confirming that Qiao Er's background was not simple. An ordinary vendor would not change their manner of address so naturally; this indicated her keen awareness of social hierarchies, unlike a commoner.
At that moment, a commotion arose from nearby as a group of soldiers approached, led by the same guard captain they had seen at Yao Wang Miao. Nangong Shuang's heart raced, and she quickly lowered her head, using her hat to shield her face.
"What’s wrong?" Qian Wan'er noticed Nangong Shuang's unease.
"Nothing, it's just too noisy here. Miss, why don't we go look elsewhere?" Nangong Shuang suggested softly.
Qian Wan'er nodded and was about to leave when she noticed that Qiao Er had quickly packed up her stall and seemed ready to follow them.
"Sister Shuang," Qiao Er looked at Nangong Shuang eagerly, "Can I come with you?"
Nangong Shuang was taken aback. "What?"
"I want to be Sister Shuang's maid!" Qiao Er blurted out, her eyes shining with hope. "Sister, your medical skills are remarkable and your abilities are exceptional; I truly admire you. Let me follow you, and I promise I won't be a burden!"
This sudden request left both Nangong Shuang and Qian Wan'er momentarily speechless. Qian Wan'er looked at Qiao Er suspiciously. "You were doing well selling your goods; why do you suddenly want to be someone’s maid?"
Qiao Er bit her lip, her eyes reddening slightly. "To be honest, there have been changes in my family. I came to the capital alone to make a living. I've faced many setbacks these past few months and finally saved some money, only to encounter those thugs demanding extortion..." Her voice choked with emotion. "If it weren't for Sister Shuang's help, I truly wouldn't know what to do. With winter approaching and nowhere to go, I just want to find a good master to serve; having food to eat would be enough."
Her heartfelt words made Qian Wan'er nod repeatedly, filled with sympathy. However, Nangong Shuang observed closely and noticed that although Qiao Er's eyes were misty, they were clear and determined without any sign of fear; clearly, her words were not entirely truthful.
Yet Nangong Shuang thought about it: Qiao Er had martial skills and was proficient in embroidery; she was articulate as well. If she could be of use, she might prove to be a good assistant—especially since she was about to meet Xiao Zhongyan to investigate the truth behind the massacre of the Nangong Family; having an able helper would always be beneficial.
"Miss," Nangong Shuang turned to Qian Wan'er, "Would it be alright for Qiao Er to follow me? Her embroidery skills are exceptional; she could help you create exquisite pouches and sachets."
Qian Wan'er was already soft-hearted. Upon hearing Nangong Shuang's words, she immediately agreed with delight: "Sure! You don’t have a personal maid yet anyway; Qiao Er seems clever enough, so let her come with you."
Qiao Er was overjoyed and quickly knelt down to bow deeply. "Thank you for your kindness! I will serve Miss and Sister Shuang wholeheartedly!"
"Get up," Nangong Shuang helped her up gently and said softly, "From now on, you need to learn the rules."
Qiao Er nodded in understanding, a glint of cunning flashing in her eyes.
Qian Wan'er seemed quite pleased with her new maid and led the two of them through the lantern market for a while longer. As evening approached and the crowd grew larger in the market, Qian Wan'er began to feel tired and decided it was time to return home.
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