Qiao Er nodded in agreement. "Miss, don't worry. I will do my utmost to assist you in uncovering the truth and clear the Nangong Family's name!"
The two quietly climbed over the wall into Qian Mansion. Fortunately, it was late at night, and no one in the estate noticed their presence. Back in the small courtyard, Nangong Shuang quickly tended to the wound on her arm before lying down to rest, exhausted.
Although tonight's adventure was fraught with danger, it yielded great rewards. Not only had she rescued Xiao Zhongyan and learned the location of the secret chamber and the purpose of the Plum Blossom Token, but she had also unexpectedly found an old acquaintance of the Nangong Family, Qiao Er.
Nangong Shuang closed her eyes, but Xiao Zhongyan's complex gaze and his words left unspoken lingered in her mind. She sensed that there was something he had not told her—about the Nangong Family, about the Heavenly Fragrance Life-Extending Technique, and even about his own identity...
Perhaps all the mysteries would be answered at the Nangong Ancestral Home three days from now.
Outside, the moonlight poured like water over the bustling capital city. In a corner of the city, a man in black was reporting to Zheng Yushi about the failure of tonight's operation.
"Sir, both Xiao Zhongyan and that woman have escaped," the man in black reported while kneeling.
A cold glint 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 Nan Gong Shuang!"
The man in black complied and left, leaving Zheng Yushi standing alone by the window, his eyes glinting 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, music filled the air with fragrant scents wafting around. Lord Guo had organized a Qin Hui to celebrate his beloved daughter Guan Chunyi's recovery, inviting renowned young ladies from the capital to gather for this event.
Nangong Shuang stood behind Qian Wan'er, her gaze wandering around the hall. There were many guests present; each young lady had her own charm—some were dignified and beautiful, while others were lively and spirited—all daughters of prominent 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 so beautiful today! This lake-blue dress makes you look like a lotus emerging from water."
Qian Wan'er shyly smiled. "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 instruments; 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 the tip of your ring finger; it has a calming effect."
At that moment, Madam Guo walked to the center of the hall and announced loudly, "Thank you all for coming today for this Qin Hui! I hope everyone will enjoy this gathering and showcase your musical talents."
Cheers erupted from the crowd as the atmosphere became lively.
Madam Guo smiled and said, "Since it's a Qin Hui, we must ask each young lady to display her skills. Today we are fortunate to have Li Dajia from Tai Chang Si here to provide guidance; I hope everyone will not hold back."
An elegant elder in his fifties stood up and bowed to everyone. Li Dajia was a musician from Tai Chang Si in the palace, well-versed in both ancient and modern music theory; there was no one in the capital who did not know his name.
"I am unworthy," Li Dajia said with a warm smile. "It is indeed my great fortune to witness your musical talents today." He then became serious and added, "However, it is difficult to discern Qin Yin; I hope you will allow me to make a small request."
Madam Guo replied with a smile, "Please go ahead, Li Dajia."
"Today each young lady must choose a piece to perform and explain its origin and their insights; only then can we truly appreciate your talents," Li Dajia stated.
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