"Isn't that Nangong Shuang? What a coincidence to run into you here!" A warm and gentle voice came from behind.
Nangong Shuang turned around, and indeed it was Xiao Zhongyan, wearing a look of surprise as if this were a genuine chance encounter. However, Nangong Shuang knew better; this was no coincidence, but rather a deliberate act of following her!
She concealed her thoughts and slightly bowed, "Ah, it is indeed Xiao Gongzi. What a coincidence."
Xiao Zhongyan smiled gently, "Are you here to buy medicine as well, Nangong Shuang?"
"Yes, the master at home is unwell and has sent me to purchase some medicinal materials," Nangong Shuang replied casually, though her heart tightened with vigilance.
Xiao Zhongyan nodded and suddenly seemed to remember something. "By the way, I have heard about the matter regarding Yao Yan. Your medical skills are remarkable; not only did you expose Li Yingxue's scheme, but you also generously came to her aid. Truly admirable."
Nangong Shuang felt a cold laugh inside but maintained a humble expression. "You flatter me, Gongzi. I merely have a basic understanding of medicine and happened to recognize the poison in her heart."
"Basic understanding of medicine?" Xiao Zhongyan chuckled softly. "Your words are too modest. To identify the Mandrake poison on the spot and carry the antidote with you is not something that can be achieved with just a 'basic understanding.'"
Though his tone was gentle, his gaze was sharp as a knife, piercing into Nangong Shuang's heart. Clearly, Xiao Zhongyan's words held deeper meaning; he was probing the source of her medical knowledge!
Nangong Shuang remained calm and replied nonchalantly, "My master taught me that for those who practice medicine, medical ethics are paramount, followed by medical skills. Regardless of one's level of skill, without the heart to save lives and heal the wounded, one will ultimately struggle to achieve greatness. Although I disapprove of Miss Li's schemes to harm others, as a healer with compassion, I naturally had to step in when I saw her poisoned."
Xiao Zhongyan nodded slightly. "It seems you possess both medical ethics and skills; no wonder Xu Taiyi holds you in such high regard. However, I am curious—who is your master? To have such exquisite medical skills is truly commendable."
This question struck at the core issue; Nangong Shuang knew she could not brush it off lightly. After pondering for a moment, she replied, "My master is an old doctor who lives in seclusion in the mountains. He shuns fame and fortune and does not wish to reveal his name. His medical skills are superb, especially in toxicology. He taught me to 'use poison against poison and treat the unusual with the unusual,' so some of my methods may differ from those of ordinary practitioners."
"I see," Xiao Zhongyan said meaningfully. "However, your methods of medication—especially that powder used to test for toxins and your antidote techniques—are quite similar to those of the legendary Nangong Family. I wonder if your master has any connections with them?"
At this remark, Nangong Shuang's heart tightened. Xiao Zhongyan had clearly indicated that her medical skills resembled those of the Nangong Family's style; this was no casual probe but rather a pointed inquiry!
The room fell silent for a moment; even the shop assistants and the proprietor paused their tasks to listen intently to their conversation.
Nangong Shuang feigned surprise. "The Nangong Family? Wasn't that the family that was executed ten years ago for treason? I am merely a disciple of a village doctor; how could I possibly be related to such a prominent family?"
"Indeed," Xiao Zhongyan said with deep eyes. "The Nangong Family was executed for treason; this is common knowledge." He continued thoughtfully, "However, there are many doubts surrounding that treason case. It's strange—why would the Nangong Family, known for generations as healers with immense wealth, resort to treason? Moreover, at that time, the evidence was quite suspicious; there were rumors that certain individuals were envious of the Nangong Family's medical skills and deliberately framed them."
Nangong Shuang felt shaken internally but did not show it on her face. "I see. It seems Xiao Gongzi has quite an interest in the matters concerning the Nangong Family?"
Xiao Zhongyan smiled meaningfully. "It's merely out of curiosity. The Nangong Family's medical skills are world-renowned, especially in toxicology; it's truly unfortunate that they have faded into obscurity throughout history. I've often thought that if one could find their medical texts or descendants, it would surely be a great fortune for the field of medicine."
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