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墨書 Inktalez
Xiao Zhongyan nodded in agreement and slightly bowed to Nangong Shuang before leaving with Xiao Cui. As Nangong Shuang watched his retreating figure, her mind was filled with questions. Was Xiao Zhongyan an enemy or a friend? Why did he choose to help her? And why did he warn her about the dangers at today's banquet?
While she was deep in thought, Xiao Cha hurried over and whispered, "Sister, I discovered that Xiao Cui and Xiao Zhongmo have secret communications. They were just having a private discussion in the corner of the garden, seemingly plotting something."
Nangong Shuang furrowed her brow. "So it is true. It seems there may be changes at today's banquet. Keep an eye on their movements, and if anything unusual happens, inform me immediately."
Xiao Cha nodded and left, while Nangong Shuang organized her thoughts and returned to Guan Chunyi's side. The banquet had already begun, and guests were taking their seats. As a companion reader, Nangong Shuang naturally sat beside Guan Chunyi.
During the meal, Nangong Shuang noticed that Xiao Zhongmo frequently cast sharp glances in her direction, as if scrutinizing her every move. Meanwhile, Xiao Zhongyan maintained a graceful smile, engaging in lively conversation with the guests, occasionally glancing her way with an inscrutable gaze.
As the wine flowed and the dishes were served, the banquet reached its climax. Madam Guo suggested that the young ladies showcase their talents for entertainment. Guan Chunyi took the lead without hesitation, stepping onto the stage to perform "Three Variations of Plum Blossoms." Her skillful playing and beautiful melody earned her thunderous applause.
"Nangong Shuang is skilled in medicine; I wonder how her musical talent fares?" Xiao Zhongmo suddenly spoke up, his gaze fixed intensely on Nangong Shuang. "Why not show us a thing or two?"
At his words, all eyes turned to Nangong Shuang. She understood that this was a test from Xiao Zhongmo. The Nangong family had a long-standing reputation for musical prowess; if she performed too well, it would raise suspicion.
"Replying to the young master, Nangong Shuang only has a rudimentary understanding of music and would not dare to embarrass herself before everyone," she humbly responded.
However, Madam Guo interjected, "Nangong Shuang is being too modest. I heard from Guan Chunyi that your skills are exceptional, especially in 'Feng Qiu Huang.' Why not play that piece?"
Nangong Shuang's heart sank; "Feng Qiu Huang" was indeed a signature piece of the Nangong family. Madam Guo's insistence clearly had ulterior motives.
"Since the lady is so insistent, I cannot refuse," Nangong Shuang said as she stood and bowed before walking towards the qin platform, having made up her mind.
She gently brushed her fingers over the strings, feigning a bit of awkwardness as if she were a novice. The first few notes were slightly off-key, causing some guests to shake their heads. But gradually, her playing became more fluid; though not perfect, it was still quite moving.
Nangong Shuang intentionally controlled her performance level—she could not be too poor as to show disrespect to the hosts nor too brilliant as to reveal her true identity. Achieving this delicate balance was indeed the most challenging part.
As the piece concluded, the guests politely applauded while Guan Chunyi looked pleasantly surprised, clearly not expecting Nangong Shuang's musical talent to be so impressive.
Returning to her seat, Nangong Shuang noticed a flicker of disappointment in Xiao Zhongmo's eyes; evidently, he had found no flaws in her performance. Meanwhile, Xiao Zhongyan appeared contemplative with his deep gaze.
The banquet continued as Nangong Shuang remained vigilant, observing the surroundings. Suddenly, she spotted Xiao Cui stealthily adding something to a teapot!
Alarm bells rang in her mind as she quickly sought out Xiao Cha and whispered urgently, "Xiao Cui is drugging the teapot; find out whose tea it is!"
Xiao Cha swiftly checked and soon returned with news: "It's Miss Guo Chunyi's tea!"
Nangong Shuang's heart raced as she quickly devised a plan. Why would Xiao Cui target Guan Chunyi? Was it to lure her into action to save her and test her medical skills or was there another scheme at play?
Before she could ponder further, Xiao Cui was already approaching Guan Chunyi with the tea tray. Nangong Shuang knew she had to act immediately; otherwise, Guan Chunyi would be in grave danger!
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