Seeing this, Guan Chunyi quickly came to Nangong Shuang's defense. "Young Master Xiao, please do not be angry. My Sister Shuang's medical skills are indeed remarkable; she once saved my life, so she might truly be able to help the lady."
"Hmph, a woman's opinion is hardly credible," Xiao Zhongmo scoffed, turning to leave.
Guan Chunyi's face flushed with anger. "This Young Master Xiao is too much! How can he speak so disrespectfully when my sister's medical skills are so high?"
Nangong Shuang instead revealed a faint smile. "It's fine. A healer has a kind heart and does not compete with others."
"Sister, your generosity is admirable," Guan Chunyi said, looking at Nangong Shuang with admiration.
Just then, Xiao Xiang stood up and announced the official start of the banquet. Servants filed in, presenting exquisite dishes. Nangong Shuang quietly sat beside Guan Chunyi, observing the various figures at the banquet, especially the core members of the Xiao Family.
Xiao Xiang was dignified and composed, exuding an air of nobility with every gesture; Madam Xiao was gentle and graceful, courteous in her manners; Xiao Zhongyan was charming and talented; while Xiao Zhongmo was arrogant and proud, seemingly impressive but unable to hide his inner malice. Such a family, with their distinct personalities, was indeed intriguing.
As the wine flowed and the dishes were served, the atmosphere of the banquet gradually warmed up. Xiao Xiang suggested that the talented men and women showcase their skills to liven up the event. Immediately, several young gentlemen stepped forward to recite poetry or play music, each displaying their talents.
When it was Xiao Zhongyan's turn, he politely declined. "Today is a family gathering; I would prefer that our esteemed guests showcase their talents instead."
Xiao Xiang smiled and said, "Xiao Zhongyan has always been humble, but today you are the host and should show something. How about presenting a couplet to challenge everyone?"
Reluctantly, Xiao Zhongyan thought for a moment before proclaiming loudly, "The spring breeze for ten miles cannot compare to you; the plum blossoms' three echoes move the heart."
Everyone was astonished; this was not just a couplet but a complete couplet that was both well-structured and meaningful, showcasing Xiao Zhongyan's profound literary background.
"What a wonderful couplet!" Lord Guo applauded enthusiastically. "Young Master Xiao's talent is exceptional and worthy of admiration!"
Other guests echoed their praises in agreement. Xiao Zhongyan smiled modestly and casually glanced at Nangong Shuang as if seeking her reaction. However, Nangong Shuang remained expressionless, seemingly indifferent to his talent.
Seeing this, Xiao Xiang laughed and said, "Nangong Shuang possesses remarkable medical skills; I wonder if she has any knowledge of poetry or song?"
At this remark, the room fell silent as all eyes turned to Nangong Shuang. She understood that Xiao Xiang was testing her scholarly abilities to see if she lived up to her reputation.
"Replying to your honor," Nangong Shuang humbly responded, "I only have a slight understanding of medicine and am truly ashamed regarding poetry and song."
Xiao Zhongmo seized the opportunity with a cold smirk. "I think it's not just slight understanding but rather complete ignorance. How could a village doctor possibly understand poetry?"
His words were clearly meant to humiliate Nangong Shuang. Guan Chunyi's face turned crimson with anger as she prepared to retort when Nangong Shuang gently squeezed her hand to signal her to remain calm.
"Young Master Xiao's words are misguided," Nangong Shuang said calmly. "Poetry is a universal treasure that knows no distinction between high or low status. Though I may lack talent, I have read some poetry; how could I dare say I know nothing?"
"Then would you dare to compete with my brother?" Xiao Zhongmo challenged provocatively. "If you can come up with a couplet that matches my brother's skill, I will publicly apologize to you!"
The room erupted in murmurs; this was clearly an attempt to force Nangong Shuang into embarrassment!
"This is inappropriate for you to say, Second Brother," Xiao Zhongyan frowned. "Nangong Shuang is our guest; how can we make things difficult for her?"
Nangong Shuang stood up and said calmly, "Young Master Xiao, you are too polite. Since Young Master Xiao Er has such a refined interest, I, Nangong Shuang, would be honored to give it a try."
She turned to Xiao Zhongyan and spoke in a cool voice, "I wonder if Young Master Xiao could present another couplet for me to learn from?"
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