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"What did he rely on to rise in status?" Nangong Shuang asked calmly.
Xiao Cha mysteriously took out a note from her bosom. "This is intelligence provided by the Azure Dragon Gang. Zheng Zhao was born into a poor family when he served as an Executioner, but ever since the Nangong Case, he suddenly became wealthy and acquired vast lands. Later, he was recommended by Xiao Xiang and rose through the ranks; he is now the Jingzhaoyin, holding significant power."
Nangong Shuang took the note and examined it closely. It detailed Zheng Zhao's rise and changes in wealth. A once-obscure official suddenly becoming prosperous after the Nangong Case surely had its secrets.
"What are Zheng Zhao's current interests? Where does he often go?" Nangong Shuang pondered for a moment before asking.
Xiao Cha recalled, "According to the Azure Dragon Gang's intelligence, Zheng Zhao enjoys flowers and wine, especially fond of courtesans. At the beginning of each month, he must visit the Jin Xiang Courtyard in the west of the city to drink and revel. Today happens to be the beginning of the month..."
A glint of determination flashed in Nangong Shuang's eyes. "Tonight, we will pay this Zheng a visit."
"Sister intends to...?" Xiao Cha asked tentatively.
Nangong Shuang sneered, "He owes the Nangong Family a life; today, I want him to confess his crimes from back then."
Xiao Cha's eyes brightened. "I understand! We can use Qi Xin Xiang to make him reveal the truth!"
"Not just that." Nangong Shuang stood up and walked to the medicine cabinet, retrieving a small porcelain vial. "We will also use Zui Yan San to make him speak carelessly after drinking, revealing everything about those who manipulated him."
Zui Yan San was another secret medicine of the Nangong Family, colorless and tasteless when mixed with wine. The drinker would unknowingly become intoxicated and lose their inhibitions, spilling their secrets. When used in conjunction with Qi Xin Xiang, it would be even more effective.
"However, how can two women enter such a place of indulgence?" Xiao Cha expressed her concerns. "If the Guo Residence finds out, wouldn't that be..."
Nangong Shuang interrupted her: "That's why we need to disguise ourselves. Aren't you skilled at this? Tonight, we will dress as men and go under the pretense of visiting friends at Jin Xiang Courtyard."
Xiao Cha's eyes lit up. "Great idea! But Guo Residence has strict guards; how will we get out?"
"That's simple," Nangong Shuang said confidently. "Tonight, Miss Guo Chunyi will be in her inner chamber enjoying the moon and reciting poetry with her close friends; all the servants will attend to her. I've already told Guan Chunyi that I'm feeling unwell and need to rest early; she won't come looking for me. We can slip out under the cover of night and return before midnight."
Xiao Cha nodded in agreement. "Sister has thought this through well. I'll go prepare our disguises right away."
"Wait." Nangong Shuang called her back. "We mustn't act recklessly. Zheng Zhao is an important official in the capital; if we alert him, the consequences could be dire. You need to contact Lan Tianxiao and let him know I need assistance from the Azure Dragon Gang to set up a trap at Jin Xiang Courtyard."
Xiao Cha understood Nangong Shuang's intentions, nodded in acknowledgment, and turned to leave.
Nangong Shuang stood alone by the window, gazing at the distant imperial city with flames of vengeance flickering in her eyes. The injustice faced by the Nangong Family must be brought to light, and Zheng Zhao was the first key to unlocking the truth.
After nightfall, most servants in Guo Residence gathered in the inner courtyard for Guan Chunyi's poetry gathering. Taking advantage of this opportunity, Nangong Shuang and Xiao Cha disguised themselves as men and quietly slipped out of the estate.
"Sister looks quite impressive dressed as a man!" Xiao Cha couldn't help but exclaim.
Nangong Shuang wore a long green robe with her hair tied up elegantly; holding a folding fan, she moved with grace and poise like a refined gentleman. Xiao Cha followed closely behind, disguised as a young scholar.
They traversed several streets until they arrived at Jin Xiang Courtyard in the west of the city. This was a renowned high-class brothel in the capital, adorned with intricate carvings and colorful lanterns, bustling with life. Several luxurious carriages were parked outside, indicating that many young masters from wealthy noble families had come seeking pleasure tonight.
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