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Xiao Zhongmo was also observing Nangong Shuang, a mysterious glimmer in his eyes. "Indeed, to possess such medical skills at such a young age suggests a profound family background. May I ask who your esteemed master is?"
Nangong Shuang felt a surge of caution in her heart but maintained a composed exterior. "My master is merely an old doctor living in seclusion in the mountains, not one to be recognized by the world. What I have learned is just the tip of the iceberg."
The two brothers exchanged glances, their meaning unspoken. Xiao Zhongyan smiled gently and said, "If you do not mind, would you be willing to visit Xiao Mansion one day? My mother has suffered from wind illness for many years; perhaps you have a remedy?"
Just as Nangong Shuang was about to respond, Lord Guo approached with a smile. "Nangong Shuang's medical skills are indeed remarkable. If she could treat Madam Xiao's wind illness, it would be an honor for her."
"Thank you for your kind words, my lord," Nangong Shuang replied cautiously. "However, the causes of wind illness are complex, and I fear I may not be up to the task. If given the opportunity, I would be willing to offer my humble assistance."
Lord Guo nodded in satisfaction and turned to Xiao Xiang. "Brother Xiao, the banquet is ready; shall we move to the inner hall?"
Everyone agreed and followed Lord Guo into the inner hall. Nangong Shuang deliberately slowed her pace, falling to the back to observe the guests in the banquet hall.
In a corner, she noticed Xiao Cui serving tea to the guests with deft movements and focused expression. However, Nangong Shuang keenly sensed that Xiao Cui's gaze occasionally flicked toward her, clearly keeping watch.
"Nangong Shuang, may I have a word?" A voice as warm as jade came from behind her. She turned to see Xiao Zhongyan had approached her without her noticing.
A tightness gripped her heart, but recalling Guan Chunyi's letter, she nodded in agreement. "Xiao Gongzi, please."
They moved to a secluded corner of the banquet hall where no one was paying attention. Xiao Zhongyan lowered his voice and asked, "Do you still remember our agreement at Guanyin Temple?"
Nangong Shuang felt a jolt of surprise but masked it completely. "What do you mean, Gongzi? I have never made any agreement with you."
Xiao Zhongyan looked at her meaningfully. "The fragrance of plum blossoms comes from enduring bitter cold; whether Mei Ling exists or not relates to life and death."
His words struck like thunder, nearly shattering Nangong Shuang's calm facade. He was indeed the one who had helped her at Guanyin Temple! And he remembered their agreement.
"You must have mistaken me for someone else," Nangong Shuang replied cautiously, unwilling to easily trust him. "I am merely a country doctor with no connection to any Mei Ling."
Xiao Zhongyan did not press further but softly said, "No matter. When the time comes, the truth will reveal itself. Just a word of caution: today’s banquet is fraught with danger; please be careful."
As he turned to leave, Nangong Shuang suddenly remembered Guan Chunyi's letter and hurriedly took it from her sleeve. "Please wait a moment. Miss Guo Chunyi asked me to deliver this."
Xiao Zhongyan paused in surprise as he took the note from her hand. After glancing at it briefly, he tucked it away with a complex expression. "Thank you, Miss Nangong. Please convey my gratitude to Miss Guo; I appreciate her feelings."
Nangong Shuang nodded but felt a wave of disappointment wash over her. She had to admit that seeing Xiao Zhongyan accept Guan Chunyi's letter stirred some bitterness within her heart. However, she quickly suppressed that feeling and reminded herself that revenge was her primary concern.
As they were about to part ways, Nangong Shuang suddenly noticed Xiao Cui approaching them with a vigilant look in her eyes. She quickly warned Xiao Zhongyan, "Gongzi, I fear someone is watching us."
Xiao Zhongyan smiled slightly. "No need for concern; my brother’s spies are nothing to fear."
His words surprised Nangong Shuang once again. Xiao Zhongyan knew that Xiao Cui was Xiao Zhongmo's spy! This further confirmed her suspicions: the brothers of the Xiao Family had differing stances and were perhaps engaged in some covert competition.
While she pondered this revelation, Xiao Cui had already reached them with a smile on her face as she bowed politely. "Xiao Gongzi, Lord Guo requests your presence at the table."
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