Nangong Shuang briefly explained the situation to Qiao Er and then whispered, "The plan has changed. We need to act tonight at midnight."
Qiao Er nodded. "I'll go with you!"
Nangong Shuang shook her head. "No, you stay at the Qian Mansion in case someone investigates my whereabouts. If anything unusual happens, notify Guo Chunyi immediately and have her find a way to contact Xiao Zhongyan."
Though reluctant, Qiao Er understood the reasoning and could only nod in agreement.
Just as they were about to leave, Nangong Shuang suddenly noticed a piece of paper on the ground, seemingly just placed there. She picked it up and felt a chill run through her: "Nan Gong Yu Nie, your death is imminent."
The eight brief words carried a cold murderous intent.
Nangong Shuang handed the note to Qiao Er, whose expression changed dramatically. "Who left this?"
"I don't know." Nangong Shuang scanned the surroundings with piercing eyes. "But it's certain that my identity has been exposed."
Qiao Er said anxiously, "That makes tonight's operation even more dangerous!"
Nangong Shuang took a deep breath, a glint of determination flashing in her eyes. "No matter how dangerous it is, I must obtain the Heavenly Fragrance Life-Extending Technique and uncover the truth about the Nangong Family. This is my mission and the meaning of my existence."
She crumpled the note and tossed it to the ground. "Come on, let's see whose methods are more ruthless!"
The two hurried away from the Small Square, disappearing into the bustling crowd.
Meanwhile, on a nearby rooftop, a pair of cold eyes were fixed on their retreating figures, a cruel smile curling at the corners of their mouth... Tonight at the Nangong Ancestral Home was destined to be filled with bloodshed and chaos.
As morning sunlight broke through the clouds, casting a pale golden glow on the walls of Qian Mansion, Nangong Shuang rose early and practiced her finger techniques in the courtyard. The threatening note she discovered last night—"Nan Gong Yu Nie, your death is imminent"—had kept her awake all night, prompting her to rise particularly early today to calm her mind through morning practice.
(This takes place a few days before the banquet at Li's residence when Nangong Shuang had not yet encountered Xiao Zhongyan at Small Square.)
"Sister, are you going out?" Qiao Er yawned as she rubbed her sleepy eyes while entering the courtyard.
Nangong Shuang put away her hand gestures and nodded. "The Qian Laoye's mansion is short on medicinal herbs; I've promised to go to a pharmacy in the south of town to pick some out for him."
"Can I go with you?" A hint of worry flashed in Qiao Er's eyes.
Nangong Shuang gently shook her head. "No need. You worked hard gathering information for me yesterday; it's enough for today. I’ll go out for some fresh air and think about how to deal with Li Yingxue and Xiao Zhongmo next."
Qiao Er hesitated but finally said, "Just be careful; after what happened at Li's residence, someone might be watching you."
Nangong Shuang smiled slightly. "It's fine; I know how to handle it."
After having breakfast, Nangong Shuang changed into a simple yet elegant lake-blue dress. Her hair was casually tied up, and she wore a sun hat, looking just like an ordinary maid from a wealthy household going out to shop, thus not drawing any attention.
Leaving Qian Mansion, Nangong Shuang strolled through the streets of the capital. The spring city was vibrant with life; the willows along the street had sprouted tender green buds, vendors called out their wares, and pedestrians bustled about, creating a scene of prosperity.
Nangong Shuang walked leisurely, but in reality, she was keenly observing her surroundings. Ever since the incident at the Yao residence, she felt as though someone was secretly watching her. That feeling of being monitored was unsettling, especially after receiving that threatening note.
As she approached a tea house, Nangong Shuang paused and pushed the door open to enter. The tea house was not crowded; she found a seat by the window and ordered a pot of tea. Through the window frame, she could clearly see the happenings on the street while also keeping an eye out for anyone who might be following her.
"Are you drinking tea alone, Miss?" the waiter asked with a cheerful smile as he brought over the tea.
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