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The two sat in silence, sipping tea. The moonlight spilled into the pavilion, and the fragrance of plum blossoms wafted through the air, creating a tranquil and warm atmosphere.
Suddenly, Xiao Zhongyan broke the silence and gently asked, "What do you think of the Nangong Family?"
Nangong Shuang knew he was probing her thoughts, so she answered cautiously, "It is indeed a pity that the Nangong Family was destroyed. They say their medical skills are unparalleled in the world; had it not been for this disaster, they could have benefited many more people."
Xiao Zhongyan nodded and inquired further, "Do you believe the rumors that the Nangong Family plotted rebellion?"
Nangong Shuang pondered for a moment and decided to be more candid. "Though I have not witnessed it myself, as a healer, I would think that those who dedicate their lives to saving others would not engage in treasonous acts."
A glimmer of appreciation flashed in Xiao Zhongyan's eyes. "Your insight is remarkable. Unfortunately, most people in the court at that time did not share your view."
"Xiao Gongzi, since you are so concerned about the Nangong Family case, do you know who actually issued the order back then?" Nangong Shuang probed.
Xiao Zhongyan's expression darkened. "That is indeed the greatest mystery. On the surface, it appears that it was the Minister of Revenue, Xu Daren, who reported that the Nangong Family was forming factions and plotting rebellion. However, according to my investigation, the true order came from the Shadow Pavilion."
"Shadow Pavilion?" Nangong Shuang feigned ignorance.
"A secret organization dedicated to eliminating dissidents for the royal family," Xiao Zhongyan explained. "The destruction of the Nangong Family seemed like an act of the court, but in reality, it was orchestrated by the Shadow Pavilion behind the scenes."
Nangong Shuang suddenly understood; this aligned with her previous findings. The Shadow Pavilion was indeed the mastermind behind the massacre, but there must be higher-level directives at play.
Just as she was about to delve deeper into her inquiries, Xiao Zhongyan abruptly shifted topics. "Nangong Shuang, having discussed so much about the Nangong Family, why don't we change to a lighter subject? With the plum blossoms in full bloom, how about we compose a poem?"
Nangong Shuang understood his hint and realized discussing sensitive topics in Xiao Mansion was inappropriate. She followed his lead and changed the subject. "Xiao Gongzi is well-versed in literature; why don't you recite a poem first?"
Xiao Zhongyan gladly obliged and gazed at the plum blossoms as he recited:
"The moon illuminates the fragrant plum blossoms,
With icy grace and jade-like bones accompanying winter frost.
Only because Ao Xue blooms late,
It alone receives clear radiance to shine through the long night."
After listening, Nangong Shuang couldn't help but praise him. "In your poem, Ao Xue stands resilient against frost—proud and aloof—perfectly embodying the nature of plum blossoms."
Xiao Zhongyan smiled slightly. "You flatter me. May I ask if you have a poem to share?"
Nangong Shuang thought for a moment and spontaneously composed:
"Snow weighs down branches; plums smell sweeter,
With elegant postures standing proud against cold frost.
Not competing with other flowers for spring’s colors,
Only filling hearts with pure fragrance."
Upon hearing this, Xiao Zhongyan's eyes sparkled with admiration. "A wonderful poem! You liken plums to people—noble and proud—refusing to mingle with worldly filth; truly embodies a gentleman's character!"
Nangong Shuang smiled faintly without saying much more. Their gazes met in midair, and for a moment, an ambiguous atmosphere enveloped them.
The wind rustled through the plum branches, causing several petals to drift gently down. Xiao Zhongyan suddenly reached out and caught one petal, softly saying, "Plum blossoms may seem delicate but are actually resilient. They can bloom in winter just as some individuals can showcase remarkable tenacity and talent even in adversity."
Nangong Shuang recognized his underlying message but chose not to respond; she merely gazed quietly at the distant plum blossoms.
Xiao Zhongyan seemed unconcerned as he continued, "I often wonder if Miss of the Nangong Family were still alive today, where she would be? Would she also bloom like these plums after enduring such a harsh winter following her family's destruction?"
Nangong Shuang's heart trembled: Xiao Zhongyan was clearly testing her identity!
“Does Young Master Xiao seem to care a lot about Miss Nangong?” Nangong Shuang asked cautiously.
A complex expression flashed in Xiao Zhongyan's eyes. “I feel quite ashamed to say this. I had no deep ties with the Nangong Family, but that one encounter left a lasting impression on me. After the Nangong Family suffered such a tragedy, I have felt guilty ever since. If I can find this young lady, it would fulfill a wish of mine.”
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