Nangong Shuang looked at Guan Chunyi's expectant expression and felt a pang of bitterness in her heart. She had witnessed Guan Chunyi's affection for Xiao Zhongyan. If Xiao Zhongyan reciprocated her feelings, it would indeed be a beautiful match. However, the enmity between the Xiao Family and the Nangong Family was an irreconcilable deep grudge.
The carriage moved slowly through the bustling market and arrived at the prestigious area in the east of the city where Xiao Mansion was located. The mansion was grand and imposing, with the characters "Xiao Mansion" hanging prominently above the main entrance, showcasing the owner's extraordinary status.
As the carriage stopped in front of the gate, Nangong Shuang helped Guan Chunyi down and looked up at the majestic residence, feeling a mix of emotions. Ten years ago, the Nangong Family had been annihilated, and now she, Nangong Shuang, stood before the Xiao Family's door—was it coincidence or fate's mockery?
The gate opened, and an elderly man resembling a butler came out to greet them. "You must be Miss Guo and Nangong Shuang. The master and mistress have been waiting for you. Please follow me."
Nangong Shuang exchanged a glance with Guan Chunyi and stepped into Xiao Mansion.
As dawn broke, golden rays gradually enveloped the capital city. Standing by the window, Nangong Shuang gazed quietly towards Xiao Mansion, her brow furrowed with concern. Today was the banquet at Xiao Mansion; she not only had to face Xiao Zhongyan but also had to navigate through the crowd while pretending to be cordial with the Xiao Family. This was both a test for her and an opportunity to delve into the heart of danger to uncover the truth.
"Sister, what are you thinking about?" Xiao Cha's voice came from behind, interrupting Nangong Shuang's thoughts.
Nangong Shuang withdrew her gaze and turned with a smile. "Nothing much, just thinking about tonight's banquet at Xiao Mansion."
Xiao Cha's expression turned serious. "Sister, are you really going? The enmity between the Xiao Family and the Nangong Family runs so deep; isn't it dangerous for you to go there recklessly?"
"Without entering the tiger's den, how can one catch its cub?" Nangong Shuang replied lightly with a smile. "This banquet at Xiao Mansion will have many guests; it's a perfect opportunity to gather information. Moreover, Madam Xiao is suffering from wind illness; I can take this chance to treat her and perhaps gain more clues."
Xiao Cha sighed. "Sister, please be careful. As you instructed, I've placed 'Dinghun San' and 'Revival Pill' in your pouch for emergencies."
"Thank you," Nangong Shuang nodded. "You must also be cautious. While I'm away from home, continue to investigate Lord Guo's study discreetly to see if you can find more clues about the Nangong Family case."
Xiao Cha complied and left as Nangong Shuang began to prepare herself. She chose a simple lake-blue long dress that was understated yet elegant. Her hair was styled simply but adorned with a few delicate silver hairpins, giving her a neat appearance.
Just as she was adjusting her attire, she heard Guan Chunyi calling from outside: "Sister Shuang, are you ready? It's time to go!"
"I'm coming, Miss," Nangong Shuang replied as she stepped out to see Guan Chunyi in a bright pink gauze dress, radiant and full of life.
"You look beautiful today!" Guan Chunyi exclaimed as she looked up and down at Nangong Shuang with admiration in her eyes. "With such an outfit, Xiao Gongzi will surely notice you!"
Nangong Shuang smiled faintly without confirming or denying it. Guan Chunyi's feelings for Xiao Zhongyan were already evident; every time he was mentioned, her eyes sparkled with an unusual light.
The carriage was waiting at the gate. Lord Guo and Madam Guo were already seated inside; seeing the two arrive, Madam Guo waved with a smile. "Hurry up and get in; we shouldn't keep Xiao Mansion waiting."
Throughout their journey, Lord Guo kept reminding Nangong Shuang on how to treat Madam Xiao’s wind illness and emphasized that she must behave appropriately. Nangong Shuang merely nodded in agreement while secretly formulating her own plans.
The carriage soon entered the prestigious area in eastern city where Xiao Mansion stood tall. From afar, they could see its grand entrance already surrounded by several luxurious carriages—clearly indicating that guests had begun to arrive one after another.
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