Splendid Shadows: The Poisonous Beauty of the Cold Palace 127: Underhanded Contest (4)
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He paused for a moment, his gaze fixed intently on Nangong Shuang. "I plan to investigate the truth behind the massacre of the Nangong Family in the coming days. Perhaps I can uncover some hidden secrets." 0
 
Nangong Shuang's heart tightened. Xiao Zhongyan's words clearly indicated that he had some knowledge about the Nangong Family's affairs and might even suspect her identity! What puzzled her more was that Xiao Zhongyan did not seem hostile; instead, he appeared to be offering some kind of hint or invitation. 0
 
She responded cautiously, "I see that you have such interests, Young Master. However, regarding the rebellion case, the court has already reached a conclusion. It may not be wise for you to investigate recklessly." 0
 
Xiao Zhongyan chuckled dismissively. "The more the truth is concealed, the more it is worth seeking. Moreover, the medical skills of the Nangong Family should not be lost forever. If we can recover even a fraction of them, it would benefit all of humanity." 0
 
The two engaged in a verbal exchange, ostensibly discussing medicine and history while subtly testing each other's limits and true intentions. 0
 
At that moment, the shopkeeper approached with a package in hand. "Miss, the medicinal herbs you requested are ready for inspection." 0
 
Nangong Shuang took the package and examined it carefully before nodding. "Very good, thank you." After paying him, she turned to Xiao Zhongyan. "You must also be here to buy medicine, Young Master? Nangong Shuang will not disturb you any longer and will take my leave." 0
 
"Wait a moment," Xiao Zhongyan suddenly called out to her. "I have heard that Nangong Shuang not only excels in medicine but also possesses exceptional skills in playing the guqin. In half a month, our residence will host a Shang Mei Ban, inviting renowned figures from all walks of life. I wonder if you would do us the honor of attending?" 0
 
Nangong Shuang's alarm bells went off in her mind. The Xiao Mansion's Shang Mei Ban? This invitation came unexpectedly and surely held some hidden agenda. Moreover, Xiao Zhongmo clearly harbored hostility towards her; this could very well be a trap! 0
 
But then she thought that if she could seize this opportunity to enter the Xiao Mansion, perhaps she could find more clues about the Nangong Family. Besides, refusing the invitation might make her seem guilty. 0
 
"Thank you for your kind invitation; I am truly honored," she said with a slight bow. "However, my status is humble, and I fear I may not be suitable for such an elegant occasion." 0
 
Xiao Zhongyan smiled gently. "You are too modest. In our eyes, talent is what measures a person, not their background. Besides, your guqin skills are outstanding and would allow you to engage in discussions with other masters." 0
 
Seeing that Nangong Shuang still hesitated, Xiao Zhongyan added, "Xu Taiyi will also be present; he greatly admires your medical skills and perhaps you can learn much from him." 0
 
After pondering for a while, Nangong Shuang finally nodded in agreement. "In that case, I would be remiss not to accept your invitation. I will certainly arrive on time." 0
 
"Wonderful," Xiao Zhongyan said, a glimmer of joy flashing in his eyes before returning to his calm demeanor. "We look forward to your esteemed presence at the Xiao Mansion in half a month." 0
 
Nangong Shuang bowed again and took her leave from the apothecary. As soon as she stepped outside, she heard Xiao Zhongyan's voice call out from behind her: "Nangong Shuang, remember this: 'The fragrance of plum blossoms comes from enduring bitter cold.' Take care of yourself." 0
 
These words struck her like thunder! "The fragrance of plum blossoms comes from enduring bitter cold," was this not an allusion to her background and circumstances? Nangong Shuang stood like a plum blossom defying the snow—unyielding despite hardship; her fragrance emerged from suffering! 0
 
She paused briefly but did not turn back; instead, she nodded slightly and continued walking forward. Yet inside her heart surged tumultuous waves—was Xiao Zhongyan's statement a warning or encouragement? How much did he truly know? What were his real intentions? 0
 
She quickened her pace, weaving through several streets until she confirmed she was not being followed before allowing herself to relax slightly. Reflecting on their earlier conversation made Nangong Shuang increasingly certain that Xiao Zhongyan had guessed her identity and might even have confirmed that she was indeed a descendant of the Nangong Family! 0
 
Strangely enough, rather than displaying hostility, Xiao Zhongyan seemed to offer assistance—a stark contrast to her impression of the Xiao Family as enemies of the Nangong Family. Why would Xiao Zhongyan want to help her? 0
 
 
 
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Splendid Shadows: The Poisonous Beauty of the Cold Palace
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  • Amy
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Splendid Shadows: The Poisonous Beauty of the Cold Palace

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  • Amy
  • Mary
  • John
  • Smith
  • Edward