Madam Xiao looked at her in surprise. "You speak the truth! I have been suffering from this illness for many years. Every time it rains, the pain becomes unbearable, and many physicians have been unable to help."
Nangong Shuang nodded. "This condition requires the use of San Yang Decoction for treatment, along with acupuncture, to see any effect. If Madam trusts me, I can write a prescription."
"That's wonderful!" Madam Xiao exclaimed joyfully. "Thank you for your trouble."
Nangong Shuang took out her medical kit and wrote down a prescription, handing it to Madam Xiao. As Madam Xiao glanced at it, a flicker of surprise crossed her eyes. "This prescription uses exquisite herbs and has a unique combination; I have never seen anything like it."
"It is my master's original creation," Nangong Shuang explained. "It is especially suitable for someone like you who has symptoms of Cold Poison in the body."
Xiao Zhongyan observed Nangong Shuang thoughtfully and suddenly asked, "Your medical skills are remarkable and impressive. May I ask who your esteemed master is?"
Nangong Shuang felt a surge of caution but maintained her composure. "My master lives in seclusion in the mountains, disliking fame and fortune, and never wishes to reveal their name. What I have learned is merely superficial."
Madam Xiao laughed lightly. "You are too modest. Such medical skills could not be taught by an ordinary person. Speaking of which, I can't help but feel that your methods are somewhat reminiscent of the legendary Nangong Family."
Nangong Shuang's heart skipped a beat, but her expression remained calm. "The Nangong Family? I wouldn't dare to compare myself with such a prestigious lineage."
Madam Xiao sighed, a complex look flashing in her eyes. "That was a tragedy. Ten years ago, their entire family was wiped out; it's truly a pity. Their medical skills were passed down through generations, especially in treating wind-cold illnesses—they were unparalleled."
Nangong Shuang carefully observed Madam Xiao's expression and saw no malice there; instead, there was a hint of nostalgia and regret. Could it be that Madam Xiao had no connection to the Nangong Family Massacre Case? Or perhaps she simply did not know?
"Mother, it's getting late; all the guests have arrived, and we should go now," Xiao Zhongyan gently reminded.
Madam Xiao nodded and smiled at Nangong Shuang. "Thank you for your diagnosis. After the banquet, I hope you can explain your methods in detail."
Nangong Shuang agreed and followed Xiao Zhongyan and Madam Xiao to the banquet hall. Along the way, she discreetly observed Madam Xiao's actions and noticed that although she suffered from illness, her demeanor was graceful, and her speech was refined—she exuded the air of a noble lady.
The banquet hall was already filled with guests, lively with clinking glasses and cheerful chatter. Xiao Xiang sat at the head table, dressed splendidly and exuding authority as he chatted merrily with several ministers. Upon seeing his wife and son enter, he stood up and signaled for everyone to quiet down.
"Ladies and gentlemen, it is indeed fortunate that my mother has recovered from her long illness and can join us for this banquet," Xiao Zhongyan announced loudly, eliciting a chorus of congratulations.
Nangong Shuang looked toward the sound and saw Guan Chunyi sitting with several young ladies. Upon noticing her arrival, Guan Chunyi waved her over.
"Sister, how is Madam Xiao's condition?" Guan Chunyi asked softly.
Just as Nangong Shuang was about to respond, a cold voice interrupted sharply: "I suppose there's nothing you can do about it? My mother's wind illness has baffled even the royal physician; what can a mere village doctor do?"
Nangong Shuang looked up to see Xiao Zhongmo standing nearby with a mocking smile. Ever since Xiao Cui's true identity had been revealed last time, Xiao Zhongmo had harbored animosity toward Nangong Shuang. Now he openly ridiculed her, clearly dismissing her capabilities.
"Young Master Xiao speaks too harshly," Nangong Shuang replied calmly yet firmly. "Your mother's wind illness is indeed difficult to treat but not beyond remedy. I have already written a prescription; if followed properly, I believe there will be improvement."
Xiao Zhongmo scoffed derisively. "Such arrogance! My mother's illness has been treated personally by the head physician of the royal hospital for years without any progress. What makes you think you can cure it?"
Comment 0 Comment Count